A monopolar-based electrosurgical hand-piece operable with an active lead and a remote return electrode that are both coupled to a generator. The hand piece comprises a body, a distal tip and at least one switch for selectively coupling the active lead to one of a first and a second electrode 62,66 that are located in the distal tip. First electrode 62 comprises an exposed cutting surface area for cutting tissue. Second electrode 66 comprises an exposed coagulating surface area for coagulating tissue. The exposed coagulating surface area is larger than the exposed cutting surface area. An electrically non-conducting or insulating support 64 separates first and second electrodes 62,66. The support 64 also defines the exposed cutting surface area where it does not cover the first electrode 62. First electrode 62 may be thin and planer in shape, whilst second electrode 66 may comprise two thin and planar shaped coagulation members 66a,66b that may sandwich first electrode 62 therebetween. The support 64 may be mechanically secured between first and second electrodes 62,66 by one or more spot welds or fasteners. The support 64 may comprise a plurality of layers 64a,64b Also a method of manufacturing a monopolar based handpiece.
