Η endoscopic assessment of swallowing (FEES) is a technique for monitoring patients' swallowing (oropharyngeal, pharyngeal and laryngeal testing). The endoscopic department of the EYEXIA Rehabilitation Centre has been operating successfully since October 2013, having nowadays a great experience in this field, characterizing the above procedure as a routine examination.
How is the test done?
The swallowing control technique uses a flexible endoscope with which the specialized medical and therapeutic team directly observes the patient's larynx and hypopharynx, while at the same time feeding the patient with food and fluids using a dye so that their course is clear immediately after swallowing.
What evidence emerges from the endoscopic assessment of swallowing;
Η endoscopic assessment of swallowing is not just a probing but a complete assessment of the aerodynamic function of swallowing and includes the following important elements:
- Evaluation of the anatomical structures involved in the pharyngeal stage of swallowing.
- Evaluation of both movement and sensation of structures in the pharynx
- Evaluation of secretions
- Immediate evaluation of the ingestion of liquids and solids.
- Feedback on treatment and improvement of swallowing with specific techniques and interventions.
What are the advantages of the test?
The main advantages of FEES are:
- a thorough check of the throat.
- the possibility of examining patients who are bedridden.
- the fact that it does not involve radiation.
- gives feedback data for the treatment.
Who is it for?
It is indicated in patients with a high risk of aspiration and possibly reduced mobility. (Vascular Stroke, Craniocerebral injury, Unit Myopathy, Motor Neurone Disease, etc.)
Who can perform this test?
In Euxia there is the possibility of direct application of the specific examination so that the patient, who really needs it, does not need to move. For this examination there is a specially trained team consisting of the doctor-physiologist and therapists from the speech therapy department. Initially the Doctor-Pulmonologist in collaboration with speech and language therapists decide which patient needs to undergo this examination and immediately after the results of the examination they decide on the feeding/hydration method and the appropriate individualized treatment plan, always taking into account the individual needs of each patient.
The endoscopic department of the EVEXIA Rehabilitation Centre has been operating successfully since October 2013, and includes:
- The Endoscopic Swallowing Test
- The Bronchoscopy
- Bronchoalveolar Lavage - Bronchoalveolar Lavage
Text editing:
Sapardanis Iordanis, Pulmonologist K.A. Wellness
Liokou Monica, Speech and Language Therapist K.A. Wellness
Wellness Rehabilitation Centre
Thessaloniki, November 2019
