An electrophysiology catheter includes a tube having a proximal end, a
distal end, and a lumen therebetween. The tube is preferably comprised of
multiple sections of different flexibility, arranged so that the
flexibility of the catheter increases from the proximal end to the distal
end. There is a first generally hollow electrode member at the distal
end. At least one magnetically responsive element is disposed at least
partially in the hollow electrode, for orienting the distal end of the
catheter with an externally applied magnetic field. Multiple magnets can
be distributed over the distal portion of the device. The end electrode
can have openings for delivering irrigating fluid, and/or a sleeve can be
provided around the tube to create an annular space for the delivering of
irrigating fluid. A temperature sensor can be provided to control the
operation of the catheter. A localization coil can also be included to
sense the position and orientation of the catheter.