Mobile Flexible Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing (FEES)

Swallowing is one of the most complex functions in the human  body, and identifying difficulties without direct visualization is challenging. Just like any other part of the body, we can’t diagnose and treat what we can’t see. While clinical swallowing assessments can provide valuable insights and hypotheses into presenting complaints and possible contributing factors, research has demonstrated that this is not a reliable method for assessing pharyngeal function or detecting aspiration. 

Alongside Videofluoroscopic Swallow Studies (VFSS), Flexible Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing (FEES) is a gold-standard instrumental assessment tool that provides a real-time view of the swallowing process to guide accurate diagnosis and skilled management.

Queensland’s First Mobile FEES Service

Medical Speech Pathology is proud to offer Queensland’s first mobile FEES service, bringing the benefits of this advanced assessment tool directly to patients. Thanks to our portable equipment:

• FEES can be conducted in a patient’s local GP office or in Residential Aged Care Facilities.
• The procedure is performed with 2 Speech Pathologists
• In specific cases, and with express medical approval, FEES may be performed in a patient’s home where necessary. When performed in a home setting, we ensure robust measures are in place to replicate a clinical environment and uphold emergency procedures.

This service is especially beneficial for regional, rural, and remote patients, enabling them to access FEES at their local GP office instead of traveling hours to a metropolitan hospital.

What is FEES?

FEES is a minimally invasive, instrumental procedure to assess swallowing function. It involves using a flexible endoscope with a camera to examine the throat during swallowing. The procedure provides valuable information about:

• How food and liquids move through the throat.
• Whether material enters the airway (aspiration).
• The effectiveness of strategies
• Potential rehabilitation exercises to improve swallowing function

Collaborative Assessment

If a community Speech Pathologist refers their patient for a FEES assessment, we encourage them to actively participate in the assessment process. While our clinicians will perform the endoscopy following our protocol, the community Speech Pathologist’s knowledge of the patient, their goals, and their role in directing intervention post-assessment are invaluable. A collaborative approach ensures the best outcomes for the patient. Similarly, we encourage patient involvement during the assessment where appropriate. This may include allowing the patient to view the swallowing exam in real time and providing direct biofeedback on the effectiveness of strategies trialled during the procedure.

Important Disclaimer:

FEES is an assessment of swallowing function and does not replace the assessment conducted by an Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) specialist.