Swallowing Evaluations

Tools that Hartford HealthCare Rehabilitation Network’s speech language pathologists might use include the Fiberoptic Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing (FEES), and Modified Barium Swallow (MBS).

This helps them assess the stages of swallowing, design the appropriate therapy program, and make safe diet/food determinations.

If the patient shows signs of aspiration (food in the airway or lungs), special tests may be required.

Modified Barium Swallow Study (MBS)

In a barium swallow the patient swallows a variety of liquids and foods mixed with barium, a substance that allows the radiologist and speech pathologist to see the swallowing process.

Fiberoptic Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing (FEES)

FEES assesses swallowing without X-rays. A FEES also shows how well a person swallows his/her saliva, and can show if secretions (saliva), liquids, or foods are aspirated. No preparation is necessary for the test, which takes about 10 minutes.

Locations

  • Backus Hospital Rehabilitation Network

    The William W. Backus Hospital Rehabilitation Network is a dedicated, dynamic, interdisciplinary team of healthcare professionals consisting of Physical, Occupational, Speech therapists and physiatrists who provide customized, coordinated holistic care to patients, their families, and the community to maximize their functional independence and enhance their quality of life.

  • Central Connecticut Senior Health Services

    Hartford HealthCare Senior Services is committed to helping seniors remain as healthy and independent as possible through every stage of their lives. At these locations, physical therapy in interwoven into many aspects of senior living as seniors are encouraged to make the link between their physical and mental well-being.

  • Hartford Hospital Rehabilitation Network

    Hartford Hospital Rehabilitation Network offers physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech language pathology, sports medicine, and health & wellness programs. Our highly skilled staff work with people who have acute illnesses, injuries, and chronic diseases as well as those who are interested in injury prevention and/or personal fitness. We have the resources and expertise to cover the entire spectrum of diagnoses.

  • The Hospital of Central Connecticut Rehabilitation Network

    The Hospital of Central Connecticut Rehabilitation Network offers inpatient and outpatient physical, occupational and speech therapy. Licensed physical and occupational therapists and speech language pathologists work with physicians, nurses, and other healthcare professionals to address each patient's needs and help him or her achieve maximum function.

  • Windham Hospital Rehabilitation Network

    The therapists at Windham Hospital have cared for the physical therapy and rehabilitation needs of the Windham community for more than 40 years, and we are proud of our long legacy of excellent service to our patients and the community.

Hartford HealthCare Rehabilitation Network