Esophageal ulcers secondary to cryoenergy after pulmonary vein ablation using the second-generation balloon.

Pulmonary vein isolation is an effective treatment for patients with symptomatic paroxysmal atrial fibrillation. Cryoablation balloon therapy has been developed as an alternative. Cryoablation complications have primarily been related to phrenic nerve palsy, vascular complications, stroke, and others of lesser incidence. Esophageal lesions are rare and they are not yet completely understood.