Description

The MIC-KEY Low Profile Balloon Gastrostomy Feeding Tube, crafted by Avanos Medical, is a specialized medical device designed for patients requiring long-term enteral feeding. Its discreet, low-profile design ensures comfort and minimal interference with daily activities, making it suitable for both adults and children in various care settings, including hospitals and homes.

Key Features

• Secure Placement: The tube is held in place by an internal silicone balloon, providing reliable retention within the stomach. This balloon is easily managed with regular checks and changes using sterile or distilled water.
• High-Quality Material: Constructed from medical-grade, biocompatible silicone, the tube minimizes skin irritation and allergic reactions.
• Anti-Reflux Valve: Prevents leakage of gastric contents, enhancing the device's cleanliness and safety when not in use.
• Radiopaque Stripe: Allows for easy visualization under imaging, aiding in accurate placement and monitoring.

Design Specifications

The tube features a tapered distal tip for comfortable insertion and a closed-end design to reduce contamination risks. Its external base rests slightly above the skin, promoting air circulation and reducing pressure on the stoma site.

Compatibility and Use

The device includes two lumens: one for gastric access and the other for balloon inflation. It is compatible with specific extension sets for both bolus and continuous feeding, ensuring that only compatible accessories are used to prevent valve damage.

Available Sizes

• French Sizes: Ranges from 12 Fr to 24 Fr
• Stoma Lengths: Typically between 1.2 cm and 5.0 cm
• Balloon Volume: Standard fill of 5 mL, adjustable up to 10 mL

Placement and Maintenance

Placement can be achieved through various medical procedures, and replacement is generally required every 3–6 months. The tube is sterilized using ethylene oxide and is latex-free, reducing the risk of allergic reactions.

Kit Contents

The kit may include:

• Continuous and bolus feed extension sets
• Luer slip syringe for balloon management
• Enteral feeding syringe

Care Instructions

Regular maintenance involves cleaning the tube and stoma site with warm soapy water, daily flushing, and monitoring the balloon water. Extension sets should be changed every 1–2 weeks, and the tube should be rotated daily to ensure proper function.

Safety Considerations

Users are advised to use only manufacturer-approved extension sets and to be aware of potential complications such as infection or tube blockage. The device is contraindicated in certain medical conditions, and emergency preparedness with spare equipment is recommended.

This feeding tube supports patients in maintaining nutritional intake and medication administration effectively, allowing them to continue with normal activities like bathing and swimming post-placement. It is intended for prescription use only, ensuring professional oversight in its application.