09-11, 16:30–17:00 (Europe/Istanbul), Phoniatrics 4 + Swallowing
Instrumental assessment plays a crucial role in the evaluation of pediatric dysphagia, offering objective insights that guide diagnosis and management. The two primary modalities—Fiberoptic Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing (FEES) and Videofluoroscopic Swallowing Study (VFSS)—each offer distinct advantages, but selecting the appropriate tool remains a matter of clinical judgment, patient factors, and institutional resources.
This session will explore the comparative value of FEES and VFSS in the instrumental assessment of swallowing in children. It will address their indications, safety considerations, and the nuances of interpreting results in a pediatric population. Emphasis will be placed on age-specific challenges, including developmental anatomy, cooperation level, and feeding patterns. Through case examples and interactive discussion, the session aims to support clinicians in making evidence-based decisions tailored to individual patients.
In addition, I will delve into the preliminary findings of our own clinical study directly comparing both modalities in a pediatric population.
The purpose of this session is to provide a clinically focused, evidence-informed discussion on the selection and application of instrumental swallowing assessments—specifically FEES and VFSS—in pediatric populations. By integrating a review of current practices with findings from our own comparative study, the session aims to support clinicians in refining their decision-making when choosing the most appropriate assessment tool.
Dr. Mariam Shadi is an Assistant Professor of Phoniatrics, ENT Department, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt. She has a special interest in the diagnosis and managment of voice and swallowing disorders in adults and pediatrics with over 20 years of experience. She is also an active member of the UEP (Union of European Phoniatricians) Swallowing Committee.