Swallowing Evaluations: Modified Barium Swallow Studies (MBS studies) and Fiberoptic Endoscopic Evaluation (FEES)

Vegas Voice Institute offers numerous options in order for you to be evaluated for swallowing problems in speech therapy. We usually don’t have to think about how we swallow unless something “goes down the wrong way” or until we begin choking. Dysphagia (difficulty with swallowing) is commonly found in over 6 million Americans. What kind of problems could be a sign that you have dysphagia?

weight loss,
drooling,
coughing when eating or drinking,
it takes longer to eat than others at the table
history of pneumonia
history of neurological problems i.e. Parkinson, stroke, ALS, M.S.

The process of being tested for dysphagia may involve three steps: a clinical bedside swallow evaluation, a Modified Barium Swallow Study, or a Fiberoptic Endoscopic Evaluation. After the initial testing, you may undergo special testing which could include any of the above evaluations. The goal of testing is not only to identify the cause of your swallowing problem but to identify specific postures or if other dysphagia treatments may be appropriate for you in speech therapy.

We offer the newest, state-of-the-art dysphagia treatment with NMES Vital Stim Treatment and the Experia high volt and VMS treatment modules available for specific populations such as head/neck cancer patients. Please feel free to read about the VitalStim Treatment.