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, low-profile design ensures comfort and reduces the risk of accidental dislodgement, making it suitable for both adults and children in various care settings.
Key Features
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Secure Placement: The tube is held in place by an internal silicone balloon, providing reliable retention within the stomach. The balloon is filled with sterile or distilled water, with fill volumes varying according to the tube size.
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Material and Safety: Constructed from high-clarity, medical-grade silicone, the tube is latex-free and includes an anti-reflux valve to minimize leakage.
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Visibility and Insertion: A radiopaque stripe allows for easy visualization under imaging, while the tapered distal tip aids in less traumatic insertion.
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External Retention: An external retention ring sits slightly above the skin to secure the tube without exerting excessive pressure.
Versatility and Compatibility
Available in a range of French sizes and stoma lengths, the MIC-KEY tube features separate ports for balloon inflation and feeding. It is compatible with MIC-KEY extension sets, using ENFit or SECUR-LOK connectors, ensuring seamless integration with existing systems. The device is supplied sterile and intended for single use only.
Intended Use
The tube is indicated for patients unable to tolerate oral intake, facilitating feeding, medication administration, and gastric decompression. Placement can be achieved through various medical techniques, and it serves a diverse patient population with chronic care needs.
Kit Contents
The kit may include various components such as extension sets, syringes, and lubricants, depending on the region or model. These accessories support effective feeding, venting, and maintenance of the device.
Maintenance and Care
Daily care involves cleaning the tube and stoma site, rotating the tube, and checking balloon volume as needed. Troubleshooting may include addressing leakage or blockage and ensuring proper flushing of ports. Replacement timing is determined by clinical assessment.
Contraindications
The device is contraindicated in conditions such as ascites, colonic interposition, portal hypertension, peritonitis, and morbid obesity. Proper clinical evaluation is essential to determine suitability.
Additional Notes
The tube is marked at 1 cm increments for monitoring, and only compatible MIC-KEY extension sets should be used. It typically requires replacement every 3 to 12 months, and reprocessing or resterilization is not recommended.