Guthrie County Hospital is excited to announce the addition of the Fiberoptic Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing (FEES) procedure to its comprehensive suite of diagnostic services. This cutting-edge procedure will help assess and treat swallowing disorders with a minimally invasive approach, providing patients with an enhanced level of care.
FEES is a highly effective diagnostic tool that uses a small, flexible fiberoptic camera to examine the throat and evaluate the swallowing process in real time. The procedure helps detect swallowing difficulties, which can be critical in preventing aspiration and related health complications, including pneumonia and malnutrition.
Improved Patient Care
“FEES provides an invaluable resource in diagnosing and treating patients with swallowing disorders,” said Kenzie Jensen, a Speech Therapist at Guthrie County Hospital. “By offering this service, we can provide a quicker and more comfortable evaluation process for patients, ensuring they receive the best possible care for conditions that affect their quality of life.”
What Patients Can Expect
The FEES procedure is performed by our trained speech-language pathologists, Kenzie Jensen and Kacie Wolinski. FEES are typically completed in, but not limited to, the hospital’s outpatient clinic. During the procedure, a small, flexible scope is passed through the nose to observe the throat, larynx, and esophagus while the patient swallows various foods and liquids. The procedure is quick, minimally invasive, and requires no sedation, allowing patients to return to their normal activities shortly afterward.
Benefits of FEES Include:
- Comfort and Convenience: The procedure is well-tolerated by patients and can be done in a seated position, offering convenience and comfort compared to traditional methods.
- No Radiation Exposure: Unlike other imaging tests, FEES does not expose patients to radiation, making it a safer option for repeated evaluations.
- Accurate Diagnosis: FEES allows for real-time visualization of the swallowing process, leading to more accurate diagnoses and tailored treatment plans.
Consult with your primary care provider to determine whether you meet the criteria for a FEES assessment.