Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing (FEES)

At the Goshen Speech and Hearing Center, we specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of swallowing disorders. Our goal is to improve patient safety and efficiency in swallowing. Since the speech-language pathologist (SLP) cannot see what is happening inside the mouth or throat during a typical swallowing test, the SLP or otolaryngologist (ENT) may need to perform additional diagnostic tests to view and obtain more information. A common test involves the use of an endoscope, which is a flexible, lighted scope that can be inserted through the nose to view swallowing function. The endoscope is usually attached to a computer or video monitor that allows the test to be recorded for later viewing. This test can be called an Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing or a Fiberoptic Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing (FEES). Inserting the endoscope into the nose allows the ENT or SLP to view the different parts of the mouth, if food is entering the airway, how certain foods are swallowed, and if specific strategies assist swallowing. Our healthcare professionals are equipped to provide FEES to our patients. Another test involving x-ray equipment may be useful to assess swallowing function. This test is called a Videofluoroscopic Swallowing Study (VFSS), which can also be called a videofluoroscopy, Modified Barium Swallow (MBS) or esophagram. The Goshen Speech and Hearing Center provides professional speech-language pathology and audiology services to children and adults of Orange County, NY and the Greater Hudson Valley community as well as the surrounding areas of New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Connecticut. Contact our office by calling (845) 294-0661 to schedule an appointment. We look forward to meeting you.