Advice after your nerve block for surgery
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Why has a FEES been suggested?
- You have had some difficulties swallowing. The FEES examination enables us to assess your swallowing.
- It also enables us to try different foods and/or different techniques to help you swallow more effectively.
What happens during the assessment?
- There are always two Speech and Language Therapists involved in the assessment.
- The procedure can be performed while you are sitting in a chair or in bed. While you are sitting comfortably, a small, flexible scope will be placed into one nostril and moved through your nose. As the scope travels through your nose and upper throat, it is possible to observe these structures. You will usually be given some food and fluid to swallow which may be dyed with a small amount of food dye to enable a clear view of their location. Your swallowing will be recorded and it may be possible for you to view some of these images.
Is the procedure safe? Is it uncomfortable?
The procedure is safe and rarely has side affects. At times the passing of the scope through the nose causes mild to moderate discomfort, though this is usually only a short part of the investigation. Once the endoscope is positioned above the throat, any discomfort usually recedes.
How long will it take?
The examination usually takes 10 to 15 minutes however the overall appointment may be longer due to discussion and viewing of images.
When will I know the results?
There will be some feedback and advice immediately after the procedure and more detailed results will be available when a report has been written. The report will be sent to your doctor and a copy will be filed in your medical notes.
Can I eat before my appointment?
Unless you have been advised otherwise, you can eat and drink as usual before your appointment. If you are currently feeding through a tube, you can take your feeds as normal up until your appointment time.
What happens afterwards?
Typically, you will be seen again by the Speech and Language Therapist to discuss the results in more detail, and to give you further advice and exercises to make your swallowing easier if this is appropriate.
Contact us
If you have any queries relating to this information, please contact the Speech and language therapy service.
About this information
Service:
Speech and language therapy
Reference:
VV/024
Approval date:
20 September 2024
Review date:
1 July 2027
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Important note
This page provides general information only. It is developed by clinical staff and is reviewed regularly every 3 years for accuracy. For personal advice about your health, or if you have any concerns, please speak to your doctor.