The invention provides a cautery electrode comprising an insulated shaft and a conductive element. The insulated shaft includes first and second channels disposed within the shaft and extending the length of the shaft. The conductive element comprises a tip segment, a mid-segment, and an electrical contact segment. The conductive element is disposed within the first channel such that the tip segment extends from a distal end of the shaft, the mid-segment is within the shaft, and the electrical contact segment extends from a proximal end of the shaft. A cautery system includes the cautery electrode, a cautery handpiece, a length of tubing, and a connector having first, second, and third connection points. The cautery electrode and the cautery handpiece are removably attached to the connector at the first and second connection points, and the length of tubing is attached to the connector at the third connection point.
