Description

The MIC-KEY Low Profile Balloon Gastrostomy Feeding Tube by Avanos is a specialized medical device designed for patients requiring long-term enteral feeding. Its low-profile design ensures discretion and comfort, making it suitable for both adult and pediatric patients in various settings, including hospitals and homes.

Key Features

• Secure Placement: The internal silicone balloon retention mechanism secures the tube, minimizing the risk of dislodgement and enhancing patient comfort.
• Anti-Reflux Valve: Prevents leakage of stomach contents, ensuring cleanliness and safety when the extension set is disconnected.
• Radiopaque Stripe: Allows for easy visualization under imaging, aiding in accurate placement and monitoring.
• Tapered Distal Tip: Facilitates comfortable insertion, while the closed-end design helps maintain hygiene.

Material and Construction

Constructed from soft, flexible, latex-free medical-grade silicone, the tube is biocompatible to reduce skin irritation and allergic reactions. It is a sterile, single-use device, sterilized with ethylene oxide.

Compatibility

The tube is compatible with MIC-KEY Extension Sets, featuring ENFit or SECUR-LOK connectors, and aligns with most standard enteral feeding systems. It is crucial to use only MIC-KEY extension sets to ensure proper functionality.

Placement and Monitoring

Placement can be achieved through various methods such as fluoroscopic, endoscopic, or laparoscopic guidance. The tube features an external retention disc and markings at 1 cm increments for effective position monitoring.

Kit Contents

Kit contents may vary but typically include:

• Continuous and bolus feed extension sets
• Insertion stylet (US only)
• Water-soluble lubricant (US only)
• Syringes for balloon management and feeding
• Gauze pad

Maintenance and Care

Proper maintenance involves daily cleaning of the tube and stoma site, regular rotation of the tube, and weekly checks of the balloon volume. Extension sets should be replaced periodically, and the tube should be flushed with water before and after each use.

Use Instructions

Users should ensure the correct tube size and stoma length, and follow specific connection instructions for the extension sets. Monitoring for potential complications such as leakage or blockage is advised, and keeping spare supplies on hand is recommended.

Replacement Schedule

The tube typically requires replacement every 3 to 12 months, with the schedule determined by a clinician based on individual patient needs and tube condition.