Introduction: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the reliability of luminal esophageal temperature (LET) monitoring probe (SensiTherm, St. Jude Medical, Inc.) to avoid esophageal injury.
Methods: : Thirty consecutive patients (21 men, age 66 +- 10 years) with underwent extensive encircling pulmonary vein isolation (EEPVI) were enrolled. A LET monitoring probe was positioned proper site during ablation and energy delivery was stopped when the LET exceeded 42?. Endoscopic study was performed next few days.
Results: Esophageal injuries were found in 5 patients (16.7 %). In these cases, LET rise occurred at 3.2 +- 1.9 sites of RF delivery, time periods above 42? were 14.9 +- 5.9 seconds, and maximum LETs were 43.5 +- 0.4?. These parameters were not statistically different from those without esophageal injuries. 3D-maps revealed continuous RF delivery on posterior LA might result in esophageal injuries.
Conclusions: Any LET parameters did not predict occurrence of esophageal injuries. Discontinuous RF delivery may be required during posterior LA ablation when LET excess 42?. Monitoring LET during EEPVI is appropriate to preventing critical esophageal injury.