An improved electrosurgical scalpel, with fume evacuation, for generating electrical signals intended for applications to the body of a patient via an electrosurgical electrode is provided that includes a channel to evacuate fumes generated. An electrosurgical scalpel includes a handle with a receptacle portion of a conductive hollow member for mounting and retaining an electrode blade and evacuating fumes, an optional light source with a power source that may be encapsulated within the handle and a vacuum port for applying a vacuum source to draw fumes away from the electrode tip through the chanel. Operation of a slide on the handle serves to retract or extend the electrode blade, and direct fume evacuation.
