Videofluoroscopy and FEES
What is a Videofluoroscopy?
A videofluoroscopy is non-invasive X-ray procedure that allows us to see exactly what happens when you swallow. It provides a real-time moving image, which allows us to understand how food and drink move from your mouth to your stomach. This assessment is essential for creating a safe and comfortable plan for your eating and drinking, ensuring your swallow is as efficient as possible.
Who might need a videofluoroscopy?
A videofluoroscopy is usually recommended for people who have difficulty swallowing, coughing or choking on food or drink, frequent chest infections, unexplained weight loss related to eating, or when their speech pathologist or doctor needs more information about how their swallowing is working. A videofluoroscopy can also provide information to help make decisions regarding eating and drinking at risk.
What happens during a videofluoroscopy?
During the test, you will sit or stand in front of an X-ray machine. You'll be given different foods and drinks mixed with a contrast liquid, while the speech pathologist and radiographer record how you swallow in real time. I will review the images with you immediately following the assessment and provide a comprehensive written report within a week following the assessment.
For clients referred by a speech pathologist, I encourage your attendance at the videofluoroscopy to faciliate collaborative recommendations and further enhance your understanding of the clients swallow function.
How much does a videofluoroscopy cost?
There are two costs involved.
1. Radiology fee which is payable on the day and varies depending on concessions. This typically also has a medicare rebate attached.
2. Speech pathology fee which includes assessment and formal report. If you have eligible funding (eg NDIS, HCP, TCA, TAC, DVA etc) you may be able to use this to pay the speech pathology fee. For further information please use the contact page.
Locations for Videofluoroscopy
Videofluoroscopy appointments are available at:
Lumus Imaging, Holmesglen Private Hospital, Moorabbin
i-Med Radiology, Frankton Surgical Centre, Frankston
Referral process
Please send an imaging request form signed by a doctor, to admin@alannabowenspeechpathology.com, or reach out to discuss your particular case.
Resources
What is FEES?
FEES (Flexible Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing) is a swallowing assessment where a thin flexible camera is passed gently through the nose to look at the throat while you eat and drink, to determine how safely and efficiently you are swallowing. FEES also allows for the assessment of secretions in the throat.
Who might need a FEES?
FEES is usually recommended for adults who have ongoing swallowing difficulties, coughing or choking on food, drink or secretions, frequent chest infections, or when their speech pathologist or doctor needs more detailed information about how safely they are swallowing. FEES can me more accessible than videofluoroscopy due to less restrictive positioning and removes the exposure to radiation. FEES is also used as a biofeedback tool for understanding the impact of different diet and fluids recommendations or strategies.
What happens during a FEES?
A thin flexible camera is gently passed through your nose so it looks into the throat/voice box. You are given small amounts of food and drink while the speech pathologist watches how you swallow. The test is usually quick, well-tolerated, and I will explain each step and support you throughout the entire process. I will review the images with you immediately following the assessment and provide a comprehensive written report within a week following the assessment. For clients referred by a speech pathologist, I encourage your attendance at the assessment to facilitate collaborative recommendations and further enhance your understanding of the swallow function.
How much does a FEES cost?
The total cost of a FEES assessment is generally made up of two parts:
the clinician’s fee for conducting the assessment and a fee for the use of the camera that is passed through your nose. Exact costs can vary depending on funding and concessions. I encourage encourage you to contact me directly for current pricing.
Location for FEES
Holmesglen Private Hospital, Moorabbin
Mobile services available on request
Referral process
Please email or call to discuss your referral.