A tissue acquisition system includes electrodes that are energized by a radio frequency (RF) energy source. Retractable electrodes are energized and extended from a cannula and the cannula is advanced in the tissue to position the cannula near the target tissue site in a patient. The retractable electrodes are then retracted and a distal electrode cuts a tissue sample from the tissue site when the cannula is further advanced into the tissue. The retractable electrodes are then energized and extended from the cannula and the cannula is rotated to separate the tissue sample from the tissue site. The tissue sample is ejected through the cannula for collection by advancing a dilator.