A probe and method for removing tissue is provided. The probe comprises an elongated member, a window laterally formed on the distal end of the member, a drive shaft rotatably disposed within the lumen of the member, and a rotatable tissue removal element disposed on the drive shaft. The tissue removal probe further comprises irrigation and aspiration lumens extending through the member in fluid communication with the window. In one method, target tissue, e.g., bone tissue, can be removed without removing non-target tissue, e.g., nerve tissue, by rotating the tissue removal element relative to the window. Fluid can be conveyed through the irrigation lumen into contact with the rotating tissue removal element. As a result of the rotation of the tissue removal element, the tissue is irrigated and removed, and forced towards the aspiration lumen. The irrigation fluid and removed tissue is then aspirated into the aspiration lumen.