Fiberoptic Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing (FEES)/Fiberoptic Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing with Sensory Testing (FEESST) and Laryngopharyngeal Endoscopic Esthesiometer (LPEER)

Aetna covers FEES and videofluoroscopic swallowing studies for evaluation of swallowing, preferring FEES when a more conservative exam is needed because of aspiration risk, to assess fatigue/meal-related swallowing, for repeat assessments or maneuver effectiveness, or for severe dysphagia with very weak/absent swallow reflex or poor tolerance for aspiration. FEES for disorders of consciousness, laryngopharyngeal endoscopic esthesiometry (LPEER) for mechano-sensitivity, and MBSS/videofluoroscopy performed solely for screening are considered experimental/investigational and not covered (no specific CPT code for LPEER), and ICD‑10 codes R40.0–R40.4 and Z13.810 are excluded for these indications.

"Modified barium swallow study (MBSS) to evaluate function of the swallowing mechanism when performed by a speech-language pathologist and radiologist when dysphagia has been diagnosed, and there is..."