Description
The MIC-KEY Low Profile Balloon Gastrostomy Feeding Tube by Avanos is a specialized medical device designed for patients requiring long-term enteral nutrition, medication delivery, or gastric decompression. Suitable for both adults and pediatric patients who cannot tolerate oral feeding, this device provides a discreet and effective means of delivering food, fluids, and medications directly into the stomach through a skin-level stoma.
Key Features
Low-Profile Design
The tube's low-profile, skin-level design ensures comfort and minimal visibility, sitting flush against the skin to reduce the risk of snagging or accidental removal. This makes it ideal for active users and suitable for daily wear.
Secure Anchoring
An internal retention balloon, crafted from soft, medical-grade silicone, anchors the tube securely inside the stomach. This feature allows for gentle placement and removal, enhancing patient comfort.
High-Quality Materials
Constructed from clear, medical-grade silicone, the tube is latex-free to minimize skin irritation, supporting long-term use. The feeding port includes an anti-reflux valve to prevent leakage of stomach contents when not in use.
Compatibility and Versatility
The device is compatible with ENFit extension sets, offering both bolus and continuous feed options. The SECUR-LOK connector and Safety Ring ensure a secure connection to feeding systems, preventing misconnections and leakage. Only MIC-KEY extension sets are compatible, enhancing safety and reliability.
Additional Features
- Radiopaque Stripe: Allows for imaging and placement verification.
- Recessed Distal Tip: Reduces risk of tissue trauma and enhances patient comfort.
- Size Options: Available in various French diameters and stoma lengths to accommodate individual patient anatomy.
Usage and Maintenance
The tube supports bolus, intermittent, or continuous feeding, along with medication administration, venting, and aspiration of stomach contents. It is a sterile, single-use device commonly used in hospital, home, and community health settings.
Kit Contents
Kit contents may vary by region or model and can include:
- Continuous and bolus feed extension sets
- Luer slip syringe for balloon management
- ENFit enteral feeding syringe
- Insertion stylet (US only)
- Water-soluble lubricant (US only)
- Gauze pad
Placement and Care
Placement can be achieved percutaneously under various guidance methods or as a replacement using an established stoma tract. Proper maintenance involves daily cleaning, regular rotation, and periodic balloon volume checks. Extension sets should be replaced every few weeks, and the tube should be flushed before and after each use to prevent clogging.
Precautions
- Use only water-soluble lubricant.
- Do not reuse or resterilize the device.
- Verify package integrity before use.
- Ensure compatibility with MIC-KEY extension sets.
Potential Issues
Users should be aware of potential issues such as balloon breakage, port clogging, leakage, and blockage. Proper fit and maintenance can mitigate these risks, ensuring secure and reliable long-term enteral access.
Benefits
The MIC-KEY Low Profile Balloon Gastrostomy Feeding Tube offers enhanced comfort and discretion, reducing the risk of infection and accidental dislodgement. Its design facilitates easy maintenance and replacement, providing a reliable solution for patients' nutritional and medical needs.