FEES Swallow Study: See Exactly What's Happening When You Swallow
A real-time camera study that shows precisely where your swallow breaks down, so we can have a clearer picture of what’s really going on.
✓ ASHA-Certified Team
✓ Adults Only Practice
✓ Same Therapist Every Visit
✓ No Referral Needed
✓ Free Consultation Available
What Is FEES (Fiberoptic Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing)?
Swallowing Evaluation
FEES is a specialized diagnostic procedure that lets your speech-language pathologist watch your swallow happen in real time. A thin, flexible camera is gently passed through your nose so we can see your throat and voice box as you eat and drink.
Think of it as the difference between guessing there's a problem and actually seeing it. FEES gives us a clear picture of exactly what's going wrong — and that means your treatment plan is based on real evidence, not trial and error.
At Arizona Speech & Swallow Therapy, FEES is performed by our ASHA-certified speech-language pathologists who specialize exclusively in adult swallowing disorders. We are one of the few outpatient clinics in Scottsdale offering this level of diagnostic precision.
Ready to Get Started?
Call us or schedule a free consultation to speak with one of our specialists about your swallowing concerns.
Available Monday-Friday for questions
The Procedure
What Happens During a FEES Study?
01 - Nasal Preparation
A gentle numbing spray is applied to your nasal passage for comfort. The scope is thin and flexible, smaller than a drinking straw.
02 - Scope Placement
The endoscope is passed gently through the nose to rest just above the throat, giving a clear view of your larynx and pharynx.
03 - Real-Time Swallowing
You swallow various food and liquid textures while your SLP observes the entire swallowing process on a monitor.
04 - Results & Plan
We review findings with you immediately and explain exactly what we saw. A personalized treatment plan is developed on the spot.
The entire procedure typically takes 20–30 minutes and requires no sedation or radiation.
Swallowing problems often go undiagnosed for months or years because the signs are easy to dismiss. If you recognize any of the following, a FEES evaluation can give you clear answers.
Signs You May Benefit From a FEES Evaluation
Signs & Symptoms
Coughing or Choking at Meals
Frequent coughing during or after eating, especially with thin liquids, is a classic dysphagia warning sign.
Unexplained Weight Loss
Eating less because swallowing is difficult leads to malnutrition that compounds other health conditions.
Meals Taking Longer Than Normal
If mealtimes have become exhausting or meals are lasting over an hour, swallowing efficiency may be compromised.
Wet or Gurgly Voice After Eating
A "wet" or gargling quality to the voice after meals often indicates food or liquid is pooling near the airway.
History of Aspiration Pneumonia
Recurrent lung infections from food or liquid entering the airway are a direct sign that swallowing evaluation is overdue.
Avoiding Certain Foods
Quietly cutting out steak, raw vegetables, bread, or thin liquids because they're hard to manage is a major red flag.
FEES Evaluation — Common Questions
Is the FEES procedure painful?
1
Most patients describe the sensation as brief pressure or mild tickling when the scope passes through the nasal passage, not pain. We use a topical numbing spray to maximize your comfort. The scope is flexible and thin, and the procedure itself takes about 20–30 minutes. No sedation is required, and you are alert and able to communicate throughout.
Do I need a doctor's referral to get a FEES evaluation?
2
In Arizona, you do not need a physician referral to see a speech-language pathologist. You can contact us directly to schedule. If Medicare coverage is being used, we will coordinate with your physician to ensure the necessary documentation is in place.
How is FEES different from a modified barium swallow study?
3
FEES uses a flexible camera and involves no radiation or contrast dye. It can be performed right here in our Scottsdale clinic using real food and liquid textures from your actual diet. A modified barium swallow (MBS) uses X-ray imaging in a hospital radiology suite and requires swallowing barium-coated materials. Both studies are valuable diagnostic tools; our SLPs will recommend which is most appropriate for your situation.
What happens after the FEES evaluation?
4
You will receive immediate results and a clear explanation of what we saw. If dysphagia is identified, we will discuss your treatment options and create an individualized swallowing therapy plan. If dietary modifications are recommended, we will explain exactly what to eat and drink safely. You will leave with answers, not more questions.
What Our Patients Are Saying
Patient Stories
★★★★★
“She was professional, patient, and made me feel comfortable from the start. She explained things in a way that was easy to follow and supported me through the areas I struggled with.”
Steph C.
★★★★★
“Excellent group of individuals, all working together to address ones issues and concerns regarding speech and swallow problems. Very knowledgeable regarding their profession.”
Kenneth P.
★★★★★
“ I have had experience with many speech therapists over the years and have found AZ S&S to be the best experience I have had. Mikayla has been amazing managing a very complex condition. Do not hesitate to work with this company! Love them!”
Susan M.
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