This information is for patients who have been referred for a FEES examination. This page explains the process.
What is FEES?
FEES (Fibreoptic Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing) is an examination that looks at how you swallow. It aims to find out how your muscles work when you swallow and what might be causing you any difficulties.
How will this help?
We use FEES to understand and help with swallowing problems. It allows us to see whether:
- Food, drink, or saliva is going down the wrong way (into your airway).
- Some food and drink consistencies are easier for you to swallow than others and why.
- Your swallowing difficulties can be helped by altering the position of your head or body.
- There are any other changes we can recommend that may help you.
How is this done?
Two Speech and Language Therapists (SLT) will do the procedure while you are sitting down. A small, lubricated, flexible camera will be placed into one nostril. When the end of the camera is passed just beyond the back of the nose, we get a clear view of your throat. You will be able to see the images if you choose.
We make a recording of the images so we can analyse it afterwards.
You may be given some food and drink. This is dyed with blue/green food colouring to help us see it. This is usually:
- Milky water.
- Fruit puree.
- Cake.
- Biscuit.
- Thickened drink.
If you have any food allergies or strong food dislikes, please tell your Speech and Language Therapist. You may bring in alternative food if you choose to. This part of the appointment will take up to 30 minutes.
Is the procedure safe?
The procedure is safe with a low risk of complications or side effects.
Is it uncomfortable?
Passing the camera through the nose can sometimes cause mild to moderate discomfort. The Speech and Language Therapist will reassure you through throughout the procedure. Local anaesthetic will not be used as this will affect your swallow.
What happens next?
The Speech and Language Therapists will analyse the images whilst you wait in the waiting area. This could take up to to 30 minutes. You will then be invited back in to discuss what we have seen.
We will also speak with you about what the results mean for your swallowing. You will leave with a summary of this information and a plan for follow-up if needed.
You can go home immediately after the appointment. The procedure should not affect your ability to drive.
How long does it take?
The whole appointment (including assessment and advice) should take no more than 90 minutes. Please be patient if there are any delays, we will keep you informed if this is it the case.
Can I eat before my appointment?
Unless you have been advised otherwise, you can eat and drink a light meal before your appointment. If you are currently feeding through a tube, you can take your feeds as normal.
What happens after I leave?
Detailed results will be sent to all relevant healthcare professionals involved in your care.
What do you do with the recordings?
The images are saved electronically and kept securely for 8 years.
Where can I find more information?
If you have any questions, please contact your Speech and Language Therapist.
When and where is the appointment?
Your appointment will be at:
Gate 36 (Pink Zone)
Brunel building
Southmead Hospital
You will receive a letter/email with the time and date.
Cancelling an appointment
Please tell us as soon as possible if you need to cancel your appointment by phoning the Speech and Language Therapy Department on 0117 414 5130.
© North Bristol NHS Trust. This edition published December 2024. Review due December 2027. NBT003751
