Description
The Avanos MIC-KEY Low-Profile Gastric-Jejunal (GJ) Feeding Tube Kit is a skin-level, “button” enteral device placed through a gastric stoma with the distal limb positioned in the jejunum. It supports simultaneous post-pyloric (jejunal) feeding and gastric venting/decompression for pediatric and adult patients.
Key Features
- Double-lumen GJ design with a low-profile external bolster and an internal inflatable retention balloon.
- Clearly labeled ports: JEJUNAL (J) port for feeding; GASTRIC (G) port for drainage/venting (e.g., to gravity or low intermittent suction); BAL port for balloon inflation/deflation only.
- One-way valves in the J and G ports open when a MIC-KEY extension set is attached.
- Tungsten-weighted jejunal segment to help maintain jejunal placement; multiple jejunal exit ports for feeding; radiopaque stripe for imaging; tapered distal tip.
- Jejunal length measured from the distal aspect of the balloon to the catheter tip.
- Suitable for endoscopic or radiologic placement; can be used as an initial tube (with an appropriate introducer kit) or as a replacement in an established tract.
Connectivity and Compatibility
- Available in ENFit and non-ENFit (catheter tip) versions; verify connector type when selecting.
- MIC-KEY extension sets attach to the button via the proprietary SECUR-LOK connector; on ENFit models, the distal ends of the extensions are ENFit.
- Use only MIC-KEY brand-specific extension sets with MIC-KEY buttons; extensions are not interchangeable across brands.
Sizes and Options
- French sizes: 14 Fr, 16 Fr, 18 Fr, 22 Fr.
- Jejunal lengths: 15 cm, 22 cm, 30 cm, 45 cm.
- Stoma lengths: approximately 1.0–7.0 cm in defined increments (availability varies by configuration).
Materials, Sterility, and Regulatory
- Medical-grade silicone; not made with natural rubber latex or DEHP/DBP/BBP.
- Sterile (gamma sterilized); single-use; prescription device (Rx only).
- CE-marked Class IIb medical device; manufactured under an ISO 13485–compliant quality system.
Handling and Use Guidance
- Do not rotate GJ tubes.
- BAL port is only for balloon inflation/deflation; never use for feeding or medications. Administer medications via J or G port per clinical direction.
- MIC-KEY extension connection: align the black lines on the extension and button, push in firmly while holding both, then turn clockwise up to approximately ¾ turn to lock. Twist to lock/unlock the cap.
- Disconnect by holding the center of the button and pulling straight out from the hard plastic connector; do not pull on silicone tubing.
- Avoid overtightening ENFit connections.
Troubleshooting and Maintenance
- Leakage at the button may reflect an internal valve issue, delayed gastric emptying, or partial occlusion; consider addressing constipation, slowing feeds, and flushing with a pulsatile push–pull technique. If not resolving, keep the cap closed or leave an extension in place and seek clinical review.
- If the jejunal limb migrates into the stomach or a tube split is suspected, stop feeds if gastric feeding is unsafe, notify the care team, and arrange assessment/replacement (often under imaging).
- For blocked ports/tube, flush 10–20 mL warm water using gentle push–pull; do not use excessive force and do not use carbonated beverages.
- Balloon volume checks are not routine; if leakage or looseness increases, use a 10 mL luer slip syringe to withdraw all balloon water while stabilizing the device, then reinsert the manufacturer-specified volume.
Storage and Shelf Life
- Store in a cool, dry place away from heat and radiation sources. Typical shelf life: 2 years from date of manufacture.
Kit Contents
- Kit configurations typically include the MIC-KEY GJ tube and MIC-KEY extension sets; included accessories may vary by configuration.