Fiberoptic endoscopic evaluation of swallowing, or FEES, is a procedure used to asses swallowing function. A trained speech pathologist inserts a thin tube or endoscope, through the patient’s nasal cavity until it reaches the upper throat. The patient then consumes different consistencies of food and liquids, all colored with green food coloring for contrast, to evaluate swallowing function.
Who is a candidate for FEES?
Patients who report difficulty or pain when swallowing food, liquids, and/or medications, or those who suffer from frequent coughing during meals may benefit from a swallowing evaluation.