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Pediatric FEESST: Fiberoptic endoscopic evaluation of swallowing with sensory testing

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Abstract

Fiberoptic endoscopic evaluation of swallowing (FEES) was developed as an adjunct to the videofluoroscopic swallowing study and clinical examination of swallowing function in the adult. The sensory testing aspect of fiberoptic endoscopic evaluation of swallowing with sensory testing (FEESST) utilizes an air pulse stimulus of mechanoreceptors within the larynx. The study can be performed safely in children as young as premature infants and in adults. Adequate levels of cooperation can be obtained in nearly all children requiring FEESST. No cases of laryngospasm or respiratory compromise have been encountered. FEESST was initially applied to patients with dysphagia. It is now used in the study of the effects of gastroesophageal reflux on the larynx and swallowing function. The extent of pooled secretions in the hypopharynx can be used as a surrogate measure of laryngopharyngeal sensory testing. When patients managed by FEESST were compared with patients managed by video-fluoroscopic swallow studies, there were no statistical differences in the rates of pneumonia or pneumonia-free interval. A learning curve is present for the operator, but with basic endoscopic skills, FEESST is a skill within the scope of practice of most pediatric endoscopists.

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References and Recommended Reading

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Division of Pediatric Otolaryngology, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, 3333 Burnet Avenue, 45229, Cincinnati, OH, USA

    J. Paul Willging MD

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  1. J. Paul Willging MD
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  2. Dana M. Thompson MD
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Willging, J.P., Thompson, D.M. Pediatric FEESST: Fiberoptic endoscopic evaluation of swallowing with sensory testing. Curr Gastroenterol Rep 7, 240–243 (2005). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11894-005-0041-x

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11894-005-0041-x

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