Table 1 - Indications for FEES vs. Fluoroscopy Procedure
From the following article
Endoscopic evaluation of oral and pharyngeal phases of swallowing
Susan E. Langmore
GI Motility online (2006)
doi:10.1038/gimo28
Indications for modified barium swallow study (MBS): |
Unknown medical etiology; vague symptoms; need comprehensive view |
Visualize submucosal anatomy (e.g., cervical osteophytes) |
Assess oral stage/base-of-tongue movement |
UES stricture/hypertonicity? |
Examine movement of multiple structures at height of swallow |
Voicing with tracheoesophageal prosthesis : what is vibrating? |
Laryngectomy with complaints |
Indications for fluoroscopy: MBS and/or barium swallow (esophagram) |
Globus complaints: do both |
Esophageal symptoms: do both or just barium swallow |
Fistula after surgery? Barium swallow alone |
Indications for FEES: logistic reasons |
Fluoroscopy not available |
Transportation to radiology risky; medically fragile patient |
Transportation to a hospital problematic |
Family input desired during exam |
Positioning problematic: contractures, quad, neck halo, obese, on ventilator |
Concern about radiation |
Indications for FEES: clinical reasons |
Visualize surface anatomy, mucosal abnormalities, resection, etc. |
Velopharyngeal incompetence |
Visualize laryngeal movement/vocal fold mobility |
Severe dysphagia; need conservative exam: compromised pulmonary clearance |
Clinical question of secretions management |
Extended therapeutic exam needed/ desired |
Biofeedback is desired: therapy session |