An implantable lead adapted to transmit electrical signals between a
connector assembly on a proximal end of the lead and at least one
electrode carried by a distal end of the lead comprises a helical
fixation element extendable and retractable from the distal end of the
lead, the header comprising (a) an inner header part comprising an
electrically conductive material that is substantially transparent
fluoroscopically, the inner header part having a distal end, (b) an outer
header part comprising an electrically insulating material, and (c) a
collar attached to the distal end of the inner header part. The collar
comprises a material that is substantially opaque fluoroscopically. The
collar may be electrically conductive, and electrically and mechanically
connected, preferably by means of an overlap joint, to the distal end of
the inner header part. The conductive collar thus may be electrically
connected to an electrical contact on the connector assembly via the
electrically conductive inner header part, whereby the collar may be used
for mapping the electrical activity of local body tissue. Alternatively,
the collar may be electrically isolated by, for example, covering the
outer surface of the collar with an electrically insulating layer.