FEES allows medically fragile patients to stay in room
By: Damiana Kahn, speech language pathologist
What is Fiberoptic Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing (FEES)?
Instrumental assessment to visualize the swallow while the patient is eating and drinking.
Speech language pathologist passes an endoscope through the nose to visualize pharyngeal structures and possible penetration and/or aspiration with PO (per os).
Study occurs in patient rooms and patients swallow real food/drink, no barium.
Food and liquid trials have green food coloring added to improve visibility.
Why FEES?
Makes instrumental assessment of swallowing more accessible to medically fragile patients who cannot leave hospital room.
No weight limit, which can be a barrier for Modified Barium Swallow (MBS) currently.
Ability to directly visualize pharyngeal and laryngeal structures.
What providers need to know:
Speech staff will contact providers for orders to complete FEES.
Questions?
Contact Damiana Kahn, speech language pathologist; Kim Baglien, speech language pathologist and interim clinical lead; or Melissa Berry, manager of acute rehab services.