Monkey Mouths is currently one of the only pediatric private practices in Texas that performs fiberoptic endoscopic evaluations of swallowing (FEES studies) independently in an outpatient setting. This radiation-free test is the safer, more comfortable alternative to a modified barium swallow study performed in a hospital setting. Monkey Mouths is currently using FEES to evaluate infants who are breast or bottle-feeding, older children, or adults.
FEES is used to evaluate your child’s swallowing abilities. It is an accurate and safe way to gain information that involves passing a flexible endoscope through the nose into the throat to directly see all structures. During the study, your child will eat while the endoscope is inserted so that his/her swallowing ability can be observed.
The study generally takes less than 20 minutes to complete. After the study is complete, the speech pathologist will give you recommendations for how to improve the safety and timing of the swallow as well as recommendations for Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation (NMES) therapy if recommended.
Why does Monkey Mouths use FEES?
Yes. Although a speech-pathologist can practice independently, Monkey Mouths does require that a prescription be obtained from your physician for a FEES study. After speaking with you on the phone, we will make recommendations to your physician as to whether or not FEES is an appropriate evaluation tool for your child. We may also want your physician to recommend medications as necessary for the study.
After the study, we will want to coordinate care and/or additional referrals with your physician.
Many insurance companies recognize FEES as their preferred method for swallow evaluation. That being said, we have a limited number of insurance companies that we are currently in network with for a FEES Study. For other families, we do have an affordable time-of-service option of $400.
Rhonda Wilson, M.S., CCC-SLP, CLC, ASDCS
Rhonda specializes in feeding and swallowing disorders and is passionate about providing a safe and effective swallow study option for patients of all ages. Her deep interest in understanding the complexities of feeding and swallowing and its significant impact on the family dynamic led her to the unique capabilities a FEES evaluation can offer. One of the aspects that she loves is that a FEES evaluation can be completed in the office without the use of radiation or barium. This aligns well with her commitment to family-centered care. For breastfeeding mothers, FEES can be an invaluable tool as it is the only method that can accurately assess swallow safety at the breast. Rhonda also empowers older children and adults by providing real-time feedback to customize swallowing strategies to meet their individual needs and goals. Her goal is to ensure that everyone, from infants to adults, receives the best possible care when it comes to swallowing safety. She looks forward to supporting you on your journey to safe feeding. Rhonda practices in our Hurst clinic.
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2024. All Rights Reserved.
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