FEES - Fiberoptic Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing

FEES (Fiberoptic Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing) is an examination used to assess a child’s swallowing ability using a small camera (endoscope) inserted through the nose to the back of the throat. This allows the doctor to directly observe how food or liquids pass through the throat when your child swallows.

The procedure is non-surgical and does not require anesthesia, usually causing only minimal discomfort. FEES helps doctors identify swallowing disorders (dysphagia), the risk of choking, or whether food or liquid is entering the airway.

FEES (Fiberoptic Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing) is typically recommended for patients who experience:

• Difficulty drinking or eating
• Frequent coughing or choking during meals or when drinking
• Hoarseness or gurgling voice after swallowing
• Recurrent lung infections (caused by food entering the airway)
• A history of stroke, neurological disorders, or diseases that affect swallowing ability

Benefits of FEES Examination:

• Accurately identifies the cause of swallowing difficulties
• Helps determine the safest types of food and liquids for consumption
• Assists speech therapists and physicians in designing an appropriate swallowing therapy program