Damage to the Esophagus After Atrial Fibrillation Ablation

Abstract

Mucosal changes of the esophagus after PVI-like ulcers or erythema could not be demonstrated, yet structural changes of the mediastinum, which were only visible by endosonography, occurred in 27% of patients in the present study. This may indicate a higher than expected periesophageal injury because of PV ablation. Endosonography might prove to be a sensitive and reliable tool in the follow-up after PVI.