Neuromodulation

A neuromodulation device delivers electrical impulses to nerves (usually in the spinal column) or directly to the brain. Such devices are used to treat chronic pain and diseases such as Parkinson's. Like pacemakers, this involves an implanted pulse generator to which leads with platinum-iridium electrodes are attached.

Other usages of PGMs in the medical field include e.g. guidewire: a tiny platinum-tungsten coil at the tip of guidewires helps to guide catheters to the treatment site.

Electrophysiology catheters are equipped with platinum-iridium electrodes, which are used to diagnose and (increasingly) to treat cardiac rhythm disorders.