Description

The 18Fr 1.5cm MIC-KEY Low Profile Jejunal Tube by Avanos Medical is a specialized medical device designed for patients requiring direct access to the jejunum for enteral feeding. This tube is particularly beneficial for both pediatric and adult patients who face challenges in absorbing adequate nutrition through the stomach due to conditions such as intestinal motility problems, gastric outlet obstruction, or severe gastroesophageal reflux.

Key Features

• Low-Profile Design: The "button" style design ensures that the external segment of the tube is discreet, providing comfort and reducing visibility.
• Medical-Grade Silicone: Constructed from high-clarity medical-grade silicone, ensuring durability and patient safety.
• Retention Mechanism: Features an inflatable silicone internal retention balloon, with a recommended fill volume of 3–5 mL of sterile or distilled water.
• ENFit Connector: Equipped with an ENFit connector for secure attachment, though some older models may use a different connector type.

Port Functionality

• Jejunal Port: Facilitates feeding directly into the small intestine.
• Gastric Port: Available for decompression, venting, or medication administration if configured as a GJ tube.
• Balloon Port: Used for inflation and deflation of the retention balloon.

Additional Specifications

• Anti-Reflux Valve: Located on the external base or feeding port to prevent backflow.
• Radiopaque Stripe: The distal tip includes a radiopaque stripe for enhanced visibility during medical imaging.
• Extension Sets: Compatible with MIC-KEY extension sets for both bolus and continuous feeding.

Sterilization and Prescription

• Sterilization: Most models are sterilized using gamma radiation, with some using ethylene oxide.
• Prescription Use: This device is intended for prescription use only, emphasizing the need for professional medical oversight.

Placement and Maintenance

• Placement: Typically performed percutaneously under fluoroscopic, endoscopic, or laparoscopic guidance, or as a replacement using an established stoma tract.
• Maintenance: Includes regular cleaning of the tube, ports, and stoma site with mild soap and water. Flushing with warm water before and after feedings or medication administration is recommended to prevent clogging.
• Balloon Maintenance: The balloon should be checked and refilled weekly as per physician instructions.

Safety and Compatibility

• FDA Approved and CE Marked: Ensuring compliance with safety standards.
• Compatibility: Compatible with ENFit syringes and extension sets, but not interchangeable with other brands like MiniOne or Nutriport.

This jejunal tube is a critical component for patients requiring reliable and effective enteral feeding, offering a comprehensive solution tailored to complex medical needs.