What charge does the cathode of a pacemaker lead have?

In a pacemaker system, the cathode of a pacemaker lead is assigned a negative charge. This negative charge is essential for the function of the pacemaker, as it is where the electrical impulses are generated and delivered to the heart. When the pacemaker is activated, the negative electrical potential at the cathode helps to depolarize the surrounding myocardial tissue, leading to the initiation of cardiac contraction. This process is crucial for pacing, especially in patients with bradycardia or other conditions where the heart rate is insufficient.

The presence of a negative charge at the cathode distinguishes it from the anode, which would have a positive charge. This setup creates the necessary electrical gradient to facilitate proper cardiac stimulation and rhythm control. Understanding this fundamental principle of pacing helps clarify how pacemakers function in managing heart rhythm disorders effectively.