We are excited to announce that our outpatient practice offers instrumental diagnostic testing for dysphagia (swallowing disorder). We now conduct fiberoptic endoscopic evaluation of swallowing (FEES). This is an advanced objective testing procedure that can be preformed by a specialty trained speech-language pathologist to determine the cause of the swallowing difficulty and assist with precise planning of treatment. FEES is a well-established procedure that has revolutionized dysphagia diagnostics and management. Pathways Speech Therapy uses the latest state-of-the-art equipment which is portable, so FEES can be performed in office or in the comfort of your home.

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About the FEES Exam and It's Purpose

During the exam, a small and flexible endoscope is passed transnasally along the floor of your nasal passageway to obtain a superior view during the swallowing process. This evaluation offers a thorough assessment of both the anatomy and physiology of the nasopharynx, pharynx, larynx, esophageal opening and top portion of the trachea at rest, during voicing tasks, and while swallowing food and liquids. If dysfunction is observed during the exam, compensatory strategies, postural maneuvers and alternative food textures and their effectiveness will be assessed at that moment in order to improve safety and efficiency of the swallow. FEES is a safe, precise and accurate tool for detecting clinical signs of aspiration and reflux. 

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