About Us
Health Content
Career Opportunities
Classes & Events
On-line Payments
Patient Cheer-Cards
Physician Directory
On-Line Registration
Volunteers
Web Nursery
Financial/Insurance Information
|
|
|
|
New - Speech Therapy Screening & Treatment Options
Woodward Regional Hospital’s speech pathology program is continuing to expand its services with the assistance of Dr. Brent Scott, Ear, Nose & Throat specialist. Having Dr. Scott and speech pathologists, who are highly trained in various types of treatments, allows WRH to provide a new evaluation for swallowing disorders; fiberoptic endoscopic evaluation of swallowing (FEES). This evaluation allows a speech pathologist to observe your swallowing function by looking into the throat using an endoscope while you eat and drink.
Swallowing disorders are common, especially in the elderly, and may cause dehydration, weight loss, aspiration pneumonia and airway obstruction. Impaired swallowing, or dysphagia, may occur because of a wide variety of structural or functional conditions, including stroke, cancer, neurologic disease and gastroesophageal reflux disease.
The FEES will test your ability to swallow food and drink safely and comfortably.
Below are frequently asked questions about the FEES procedure:
What should my doctor know before I have this procedure done?
Your doctor should know if you have had any surgery to your neck, throat, or nose. You should also let your doctor know if you have a history of frequent nosebleeds.
Where will this be done?
At Woodward Regional Hospital, it will be done in an outpatient setting in our Rehab Services department unless you are an inpatient.
Is this procedure painful?
Most people experience mild discomfort during the procedure, such as pressure or tightness in the nose.
How long does it take?
The study usually takes about 10 to 15 minutes.
Who is a candidate for FEES?
· Patients who complain of trouble swallowing liquid, food or medications.
· Patients who report a lump-like sensation in their throat or pain upon swallowing.
· Stroke patients who experience difficulty swallowing, throat clearing, or choking during meals.
· Patient with a history of reflux.
· Patients with a history of upper respiratory infections, unexplained fevers, or aspiration pneumonia.
· Patients with a history of swallowing difficulty related to an underlying diagnosis of Parkinson’s Disease, CP, Multiple Sclerosis, ALS or dementia.
· Patients who receive nutrition via G-tube or NGT with suspected improved function or ability to tolerate oral feedings.
· Patients with a tracheotomy who might be able to tolerate oral feedings or a diet upgrade.
If you have more questions about the FEES or other ear, nose, throat and speech pathology services at Woodward Regional Hospital, please call 580-256-5511.
| |