Description

The Avanos MIC-KEY Low-Profile Gastric-Jejunal (GJ) Feeding Tube is a skin-level enteral device placed through a gastric stoma with the distal limb positioned in the jejunum. It enables simultaneous post-pyloric feeding and gastric access for venting or decompression in pediatric and adult patients as clinically indicated.

Design and Components

• Low-profile “button” with external bolster and an internal inflatable retention balloon
• Two separate lumens with clearly marked ports: JEJUNAL (J) for feeds/medications to the small intestine; GASTRIC (G) for decompression/venting and, if directed, medications
• Separate BAL port for balloon inflation/deflation only
• One-way valves in J and G ports that open with the correct MIC-KEY extension set
• Weighted jejunal segment with multiple distal exit ports; tapered tip and radiopaque stripe for imaging
• Medical-grade silicone, latex-free; sterile, single-use; Rx-only

Connectivity and Extension Sets

• Available with ENFit enteral-only connectivity; legacy non-ENFit versions also exist
• Use only MIC-KEY-branded extension sets matching the connector type (ENFit or legacy); other brands are not interchangeable
• Extension sets are required to open the one-way valves and are offered for continuous/pump or bolus use

Connection and Locking (Button Devices)

• Align the black line on the extension with the black line on the button, insert firmly while holding both, then turn clockwise up to the stop (about three-quarters turn); do not overtighten
• To disconnect, hold the button center, grasp the extension by the hard connector, and pull straight out
• Keep caps/valves clean; do not introduce formula or medication directly into a valve without an extension attached

Care and Handling (GJ-Specific)

• Do not rotate or torque GJ tubes; avoid pulling on the tube
• External base should rest just above the skin (approximately 1–2 mm clearance)
• Inflate balloon with sterile or distilled water only; check volume per device IFU
• Medication administration: prefer liquids; confirm tablet crushability; never crush enteric-coated products; do not mix medications with formula; flush with water before, between, and after medications using a pulsatile technique

Decompression/Venting

• Use the G port for gravity drainage or low intermittent suction as directed; avoid continuous or high-intermittent suction

Sizes and Options

• Diameters: commonly 14, 16, 18, and 22 Fr
• Jejunal limb lengths: commonly 15, 22, 30, and 45 cm
• Stoma tract lengths: approximately 1.0–7.0 cm (availability varies by size)

Troubleshooting Highlights

• Leakage may relate to internal valve wear, slow gastric emptying, or occlusion/connector wear; consider addressing constipation, slowing feeds, and pulsatile flushing; if persistent, keep cap closed or leave an extension attached and seek evaluation
• If the jejunal limb migrates into the stomach or the tube splits above the jejunum, stop jejunal feeding (if gastric feeding is unsafe) and arrange prompt assessment/replacement with imaging confirmation

Important Clarifications

• No dedicated medication port; administer medications via J or G as directed
• BAL port is only for balloon water; never for feeding or medication