fiberoptic endoscopic evaluation of swallowing
Fiberoptic endoscopic evaluation of swallowing (FEES) is a medical procedure used to assess how well a person swallows. During the test, a thin, flexible tube with a camera, called an endoscope, is inserted through the nose and into the throat. This allows doctors to observe the swallowing process in real-time and identify any issues, such as choking or aspiration.
FEES is particularly useful for patients with swallowing difficulties, known as dysphagia. It helps healthcare providers develop appropriate treatment plans, which may include exercises, dietary changes, or other interventions to improve swallowing safety and efficiency.