Also known as FEES, a fiberoptic endoscopic evaluation of swallowing is a diagnostic test that assesses your swallowing abilities. Using a flexible tube called an endoscope and a small camera, it can determine if you are struggling with the part of swallowing where food and liquid pass through your throat.
If you are having trouble swallowing, our ear, nose and throat doctors at Albany ENT & Allergy Services can help you find answers by referring you for a FEES study that is performed by our speech-language pathologist.
When Is a FEES Test Used?
A FEES is valuable diagnostic tool used for patients who are experiencing dysphagia or difficulty swallowing. The exam will help evaluate the various parts of the oral, pharyngeal, and laryngeal phases of swallowing. Specifically, this test helps in assessing the following:
- Aspiration (food, liquid, or saliva entering the airway)
- Laryngeal penetration (material entering an area above the vocal cords)
- Pharyngeal residue (food remaining in the throat after swallowing)
- Timing and coordination of the swallow
- Airway protection during swallowing
- Trialing and assessing the effectiveness of swallow compensatory strategies
- Impact of vocal dysfunction or other laryngeal disorders on swallowing
- Safest and least restrictive diet consistency
Conditions that cause dysphagia include:
- Head injuries
- Reflux
- Head and neck cancer such as radiation-induced dysphagia
- Neurologic conditions like Parkinson’s disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) or multiple sclerosis (MS)
- CVA/Stroke
- Vocal fold paresis/paralysis
- Chronic cough/throat clearing
- Recurrent pneumonia
- Unexplained weight loss, malnutrition, dehydration
- Aging, also known as Presbyphagia.
How Should I Prepare for a FEES Test?
Your [city] ENT will explain what to expect during the procedure and how to prepare. In the time leading up to your FEES test, you may be put on a special diet. Your provider will also let you know anything else you may need to do to prepare.
What Happens During a FEES Test?
A FEES test usually takes 20 minutes. During the procedure, you will be seated and awake, and your provider will use a nasal anesthetic spray to keep you comfortable.
The endoscope is passed through the nose to view the throat (pharynx) and voice box (larynx) while the patient eats and drinks various consistencies and textures. The speech pathologist uses the video monitor/screen to watch how well you are swallowing while analyzing or assessing the various functions or mechanics of your swallow such as how well breathing and swallowing are occurring simultaneously, how well your airway closes off, etc.
Please consider bringing any specific food items that are giving you trouble including pills.
What Happens After a FEES Test?
Results of your test are provided and reviewed immediately following the procedure with the speech pathologist. The speech pathologist will partner with you, family members, and/or caregivers to develop a treatment plan based on the test results. This may include:
- Modifying the types of food you eat and drink.
- Changes to your positioning, environment while eating and drinking.
- Learning certain swallow compensatory maneuvers or techniques to swallow safely and efficiently.
- When appropriate, the speech pathologist may also recommend swallow strengthening exercises and possibly short-term dysphagia therapy.
After the procedure, you will likely be able to drive yourself home and resume your routine without interruption.
Advantages of FEES
- No radiation exposure
- Can be performed in office clinic
- Real food and liquids, including use of any preferred foods.
- Allows direct and real-time visualization of secretions and airway anatomy
- Can assess swallowing repeatedly over time
Find Wellness with Our Team
The world is full of opportunities for experiences, but when ear, nose, and throat (ENT) related issues become an obstacle, the richness of life fades into the background. At Albany ENT & Allergy Services, we understand the profound impact these challenges can have on your confidence and happiness. That’s why our medical experts are here to diagnose, educate, guide and determine the best solution for your unique situation. You are not alone in this journey.