Dysphagia and Swallowing Assessment, Management & Treatment

SLP Endoscopix and North ENT Otolaryngology are now offering expedited Flexible Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing (FEES). This is a safe, effective, and objective instrumental assessment of swallowing, completed in-office by a trained Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP), in conjunction with a Otolaryngologist (ENT), as required.

 

The FEES examination allows us to evaluate swallowing function and determine appropriate medical management, including maneuvers, strategies, exercises, and/or modifications to food and liquid consistencies. We also facilitate referrals to relevant medical professionals to ensure appropriate diagnoses are identified and addressed.

 

Who is appropriate for FEES?

 

Patients with:

• Coughing or changes in vocal quality associated with eating or drinking

• Pharyngeal dysphagia requiring instrumental evaluation to guide management and treatment

• Unexplained recurrent respiratory infections

• A previously completed videofluoroscopic swallow study (VFSS) who require endoscopy to monitor progress or re-evaluate swallow function

• Increasing difficulty swallowing over the course of a meal

• Difficulty swallowing saliva or oral secretions, or nasal regurgitation

• Severe dysphagia requiring a conservative evaluation of swallowing

 

A physician referral form is required and has been attached for your review. This referral allows the patient to be seen by both the SLP and the ENT (as needed).