FEES is designed for people who have oropharyngeal swallowing problems. That is, swallowing problems that originate from the mouth and throat. People who have oesophageal swallowing problems (i.e., swallowing problems that originate from the oesophagus) should consider other assessments such as manometry, endoscopy, or a barium swallow. Please contact Sydney Swallowing Diagnostics if you are unsure where your swallowing problem may originate from or you are unsure if this assessment is right for you.
Sydney Swallowing Diagnostics is a mobile service. We can attend the clients home, hospitals, nursing homes, outpatient clinics and GP/specialists clinics, Sydney-wide. Please contact us for services outside of Sydney.
There is no preparation required for FEES. However, you are welcome to provide any foods or fluids that may be causing difficulties.
Anaesthetic is not usually used. Swallowing is a highly integrated sensory-motor event. The loss of sensation due to anaesthetic may make swallowing worse and negatively impact on the results of the assessment. Most people report a little discomfort, but no pain.
Costs are charged at an hourly rate. Time taken depends on complexity. Following the assessment, the video is analysed and scored, and a comprehensive report with images is provided. A copy of the original video is also provided. Please contact us for a quote.
The length of time depends on the complexity of the swallowing difficulty. Most assessments are completed within 20 minutes. However, you will need to allow 1-1.5 hours for set up beforehand and education afterward.
FEES is not a medical examination. As such, Sydney Swallowing Diagnostics do not diagnose throat lesions or abnormalities. Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT) surgeons are the specialists responsible for the medical diagnosis and treatment of throat lesions or abnormalities, whereas Speech Pathologists are the specialists responsible for the diagnosis and treatment of swallowing disorders (dysphagia).
