The present invention relates to an apparatus for use with a power source (11) to provide therapeutic cauterization of a known volume of tissue, the apparatus comprising an energy applicator (21) having unique electrode parameters adapted to provide cauterization of a predetermined volume of tissue, the energy applicator (21) comprising a shaft (40) having a longitudinal axis, a lumen (62) and a distal end having a sharpened edge (63) to facilitate introduction and advancement of the energy applicator into the tissue; an extractor (131) disposed within the lumen (62) , the extractor having a sharpened distal end (63) and a side-facing cavity adapted to accept a tissue sample, the extractor movable from a first position wherein the side-facing cavity extends beyond the distal end of the shaft to accept a tissue sample, and a second position wherein the side facing cavity is retracted within the lumen to sever the tissue sample against the sharpened edge (41) of the shaft; first (28) and second (29) electrodes disposed on the shaft and spaced apart along the longitudinal axis, the distance between the first (28) and second (29) electrodes determining a size and shape of a zone of cauterization produced in the tissue by the energy applicator (21) ; and an electrically insulating material (31) disposed between the first (28) and second (29) electrodes to electrically insulate the first electrode (28) from the second electrode (29) ; a handle (22) that couples the energy applicator (21) to the power source (11) , the handle including control circuitry (39) adapted to control supply (22) of a current between the first (28) and second (29) electrodes, the control circuitry further comprises a current detector adapted to measure a current level between the first and second electrodes; and circuitry for terminating supply of power to the energy applicator when the current level falls a predetermined amount.