Description

The 18Fr MIC-KEY Low Profile Balloon Gastrostomy Feeding Tube is expertly designed for patients requiring long-term enteral feeding and medication administration directly into the stomach. Its low-profile "button" design offers comfort and discretion, making it suitable for pediatric, teen, and adult patients who cannot tolerate oral feeding or need gastric decompression.

Key Features

• Material and Design: Made from high-clarity, medical-grade silicone, this tube is both natural rubber and latex-free. Its skin-level placement reduces the risk of accidental dislodgement and interference with clothing.

• Retention Mechanism: An inflatable internal silicone balloon secures the tube in place. It is recommended to fill the balloon with 5 ml of sterile or distilled water, with a maximum of 10 ml for the 18Fr size.

• Feeding Port: Equipped with an anti-reflux valve to prevent leakage when the extension set is disconnected.

• Connector System: Features a patented universal connector with ENFit or catheter tip options and a SECUR-LOK (CE) mechanism for secure attachment.

Compatibility and Visibility

• Extension Sets: Compatible with MIC-KEY G Extension Sets for both continuous and bolus feeding. These sets attach securely and are not interchangeable with other brands.

• Radiopaque Stripe: Includes a radiopaque stripe for visibility on imaging, and a recessed distal tip to minimize mucosal irritation.

Sizes and Sterility

• Available Sizes: Offered in various stoma lengths and French sizes, with an 18 French outer diameter and 2.0 cm tube length.

• Sterilization: The tube is sterile and ethylene oxide sterilized, intended for use under medical supervision.

Kit Components

Each kit includes:

• The MIC-KEY Low-Profile Gastrostomy Feeding Tube (with ENFit or catheter tip connector)
• Insertion stylet (US only)
• Water-soluble lubricant (US only)
• 12-inch continuous and bolus feed extension sets
• 6 ml Luer slip syringe for balloon management
• 35 ml enteral feeding syringe for feeding, priming, and flushing
• Gauze pad

Intended Use and Maintenance

The tube can be placed percutaneously under various medical guidances or as a replacement using an established stoma tract. Suitable for neonates to adults, it requires specific maintenance:

• Cleaning: Daily cleaning with mild soap and water, rotating the tube to prevent sticking.
• Extension Set Care: Regular replacement of extension sets.
• Flushing: Flushing with water before and after feedings to prevent clogging.
• Balloon Management: Checking balloon volume bi-weekly.

Safety and Troubleshooting

Users should monitor for potential complications such as leakage or blockage. Proper tube position can be confirmed by aspirating gastric fluid. The device supports both continuous and bolus feeding methods and should be used with appropriate care to ensure optimal performance and patient comfort.