Systems and methods for securing a screen-type active electrode to the distal tip of an electrosurgical device used for selectively applying electrical energy to a target location within or on a patients body. A securing electrode is disposed through the screen electrode and mechanically joined to an insulative support body while also creating an electrical connection and mechanical engagement with the screen electrode. The electrosurgical device and related methods are provided for resecting, cutting, partially ablating, aspirating or otherwise removing tissue from a target site, and ablating the tissue in situ. The present methods and systems are particularly useful for removing tissue within joints, e.g., synovial tissue, meniscus, articular cartilage and the like.
