Description

The MIC-KEY Low Profile Balloon Gastrostomy Feeding Tube, developed by Avanos Medical, is a specialized medical device designed for patients requiring long-term enteral feeding. Its discreet, skin-level design offers comfort and minimizes the risk of accidental dislodgement, making it suitable for neonates, children, and adults who cannot tolerate oral feeding or need gastric decompression.

Key Features

• Retention and Security: The tube is secured with an internal balloon inflated with sterile or distilled water, while an external disc sits flush against the abdomen. This ensures stable positioning, with markings at 1cm increments for easy monitoring.

• Versatile Feeding Port: Compatible with MIC-KEY Extension Sets, the feeding port features an anti-reflux valve to prevent leakage. It includes separate ports for balloon inflation and feeding, enhancing functionality.

• Construction and Visibility: Made from latex-free, medical-grade silicone, the tube includes a recessed distal tip and a radiopaque stripe for clear placement verification.

Configurations

Available in various configurations, the tube offers:

• Outer Diameters: Ranging from 12 to 24 French
• Stoma Lengths: From 0.8 cm to 5.0 cm
• Connector Types: ENFit or Catheter Tip

Some models provide additional ports for simultaneous jejunal and gastric feeding and decompression.

Placement and Maintenance

The tube can be placed percutaneously under fluoroscopic, laparoscopic, or endoscopic guidance and is intended for replacement through an established stoma tract. Kit contents may include extension sets, syringes, and other accessories, varying by configuration.

Daily maintenance involves cleaning the tube and stoma site, rotating the tube, and checking balloon volume. Regular flushing and timely replacement of the tube and extension sets are recommended to ensure optimal performance.

Common Use Cases

The MIC-KEY tube supports bolus, intermittent, or continuous feeding, medication administration, and gastric decompression. Users should be aware of potential issues such as balloon failure, leakage, blockage, and granulation tissue, and follow guidelines to mitigate these challenges.

Precautions

Key precautions include using only sterile or distilled water for balloon inflation, verifying tube position before use, and monitoring the stoma site for any signs of skin breakdown or infection. The device is prescription-only, single-use, and should not be reused or reprocessed.

Instructions

Patients and caregivers are advised to administer food and medication solely through the feeding port, secure the tube to prevent pulling, and adhere to the manufacturer's instructions for care and replacement. Proper management ensures the safe and effective use of this essential medical device.