09/01/2023
WHAT IS FEES? Flexible Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing, or FEES, is an instrumental imaging exam used to assess a patient's swallow function. Using a small, flexible endoscope containing a light and camera, a specially skilled Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP) passes the scope through the nose until the pharynx (throat) and larynx (voice box) are in view. The patient consumes a variety of solids and liquids during the exam while the SLP evaluates the anatomy and physiology of the swallow. This includes sensation, presence or absence of aspiration or pe*******on, effectiveness of the swallow, pharyngeal clearance and use of compensatory swallow strategies. These are areas that cannot be fully assessed or visualized during a bedside swallow exam. Research shows bedside swallow exams have a 70% error rate, where the recommendations are either too restrictive, jeopardizing nutrition and hydration, or silent aspiration is completely missed, which can lead to pneumonia. The exam itself takes approximately 6-20 minutes.
