the present invention relates to improved ablation electrodes and catheter assemblies , as well as methods useful in conjunction with irrigated ablation catheters . an irrigated ablation electrode assembly includes a proximal member having an outer surface , an inner lumen and a proximal passageway . the proximal passageway extends from the inner lumen to the outer surface of the proximal member . the assembly further includes a distal member having a distal end and a distal passageway extending from the inner lumen through the distal member to the distal end . embodiments of the present invention include an irrigated catheter assembly configured to direct irrigation fluid to target areas where coagulation is more likely to occur to , among other things , better minimize blood coagulation and associated problems .