A surgical rasping and/or shaving system functions in multiple orthopedic applications, including but not limited to shoulder, knee, hip, wrist, ankle, spinal, or other joint procedures. The system may comprise a tissue removal member with a rasping and/or shaving head which may be low profile and offer a flat cutting/rasping/shaving surface, or with a cutting head with at least one cutting edge. The tissue removal member is configured to be driven by an attached hub that translates a rotational movement into a reciprocating motion. Suction for removal of bone fragments or other tissues is provided through an opening spaced apart from or adjacent to the rasping surface. A radiofrequency ablation (RF) electrode may be carried on the system to provide ablation or coagulation of soft tissues.