What material are cardiac leads primarily made of?

The primary material for cardiac leads is typically metal alloys. Cardiac leads are essential components of pacemakers and implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICDs), and they need to have specific characteristics to ensure functionality and durability. Metal alloys, such as titanium or stainless steel, are chosen due to their excellent electrical conductivity, biocompatibility, and resistance to corrosion. These materials ensure that the leads can effectively deliver electrical signals to the heart while being safely integrated into the body for long-term use.

Silicone is often used in the insulation or sheathing of the leads because of its flexibility and biocompatibility, but it does not serve as the primary construction material for the leads themselves. Polyurethane can also be used in certain applications due to its properties, but once again, metal alloys remain the core component of the lead system. Bioactive glass is not typically used for cardiac leads; instead, it is more relevant in other types of biomedical implants focused on bone repair and regeneration.