Assessment


Rise & MikeThe clinical swallowing evaluation (sometime called a "bedside" evaluation) is completed at home, in our facility, or in the hospital. The evaluation includes a thorough history of the swallowing problem. This includes background, medical history, lifestyle, eating habits, medications and any strategies used to reduce or help with the problem.

Next, the strength, coordination and movement of the muscles of throat and mouth used for chewing and swallowing are examined. Next, the speech language pathologist will assesses swallowing function using different foods and liquids.

A clinical swallow evaluation helps determine if additional testing is required.

Modified Barium Swallow (MBS)

The MBS is an x-ray procedure that obtains views of swallowing function recorded on videotape. MBS is most useful in determining the presence or absence of aspiration of material into the airway and assessing the movement of material into and through the upper portion of the esophagus. MBS and FEES (described below) are separate and distinct procedures and may be used separately or in conjunction.

Fiberoptic Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing (FEES)

Swallowing AssessmentFEES utilizes a very thin, flexible fiberoptic scope passed through the nose to obtain a view directly down the throat during swallowing. This procedure is painless and well tolerated by most individuals.

FEES helps determine the safest way to maximize healthy nutritional status and eliminate the risk of choking and lung complications from unsafe swallowing.

The Voice and Swallowing Center can be contacted by telephone at (207) 505-4409 or by email at [email protected]

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