High density mapping and ablation catheter

A high density mapping and ablation catheter includes a tip electrode positioned at its distal end and a plurality of electrodes (e.g., ring electrodes, ring-segment electrodes, spot electrodes, and/or printed traces) disposed proximally of the tip electrode within the distal region. A plurality of conductors extending through the elongate catheter body to electrically connect the tip electrode and other electrodes to a source of ablation energy, an electrophysiology mapping device, and/or a programmable electric stimulator. A switching circuit can be employed, for example to enable a practitioner to selectively activate certain electrodes for ablation, for electrophysiological mapping, for pacing, or to deactivate certain electrodes entirely.