Description

The MIC-KEY Low Profile Balloon Gastrostomy Feeding Tube, developed by Avanos, is a specialized medical device designed for patients requiring long-term enteral feeding. This device facilitates the direct delivery of nutrition, medication, and fluids into the stomach, making it essential for individuals who cannot tolerate oral feeding. It serves both pediatric and adult patients, providing a reliable solution for those at low risk for aspiration or in need of gastric decompression.

Key Features

• Low-Profile Design: The tube sits flush against the skin, enhancing comfort and discretion while minimizing the risk of accidental dislodgement.

• Internal Retention Balloon: Made from soft, biocompatible silicone, the inflatable balloon ensures secure placement within the stomach. The device is latex-free and filled with sterile or distilled water.

• Connector Options: Available with ENFit or Catheter Tip connectors, featuring a MIC-KEY Extension Set with SECUR-LOK connector and Safety Ring to prevent accidental intravenous connections.

• Anti-Reflux Valve: Integrated into the feeding port to prevent backflow when the extension set is disconnected.

• Radiopaque Stripe: Allows for clear visualization under fluoroscopy during placement.

• Recessed, Atraumatic Distal Tip: Minimizes irritation to the stomach wall, facilitating comfortable insertion and removal.

Design and Specifications

The external bolster of the tube is crafted to reduce rocking motion, support symmetrical stoma development, and minimize complications. Its closed-end design reduces contamination risk, while 1cm increment markings help monitor tube migration.

The tube is available in various outer diameters ranging from 12 to 24 French (Fr) sizes, with stoma lengths from 0.8 cm to 5.0 cm. Balloon sizes typically range from 3–5 mL or 5–10 mL, depending on the tube size. Options include configurations with or without a medication port.

Included Accessories

Each unit comes with two extension sets (for bolus and continuous feed) and two ENFit-compatible syringes, enhancing its functionality. The device is sterile and intended for single use.

Placement and Maintenance

Placement can be achieved percutaneously under fluoroscopic, laparoscopic, or endoscopic guidance, or as a replacement using an established stoma tract. Maintenance involves daily cleaning of the tube and stoma site, rotating the tube 360° daily, and replacing the extension set weekly. Proper care includes flushing the tube before and after use to prevent occlusion and capping it when not in use.

Safety Considerations

Contraindications include conditions such as ascites, colonic interposition, and portal hypertension. Potential complications may involve leakage, blockage, granulation tissue, and tube migration. Troubleshooting measures include flushing the tube if blocked and checking balloon volume if leaking.

Lifespan and Compatibility

The device typically lasts up to 12 months before replacement is needed. It is important to note that MIC-KEY extension sets are not interchangeable with MiniOne or Nutriport (Kangaroo) tubes, ensuring compatibility is maintained within its specific system.