Description
The MIC-KEY Low Profile Balloon Gastrostomy Feeding Tube, developed by Avanos, is a specialized medical device designed for patients requiring long-term enteral feeding. Its low-profile, skin-level design offers discretion and comfort, making it suitable for a wide range of patients, including neonates, children, teens, and adults.
Key Features
- Secure Placement: The device is anchored by an internal retention balloon, which is filled with sterile or distilled water, ensuring secure placement within the stomach.
- Discreet Design: The external base or disc rests just above the skin, allowing for air circulation and easy monitoring with markings at 1 cm increments.
- Anti-Reflux Valve: Equipped with an anti-reflux valve, the feeding port prevents leakage when not in use, enhancing safety and hygiene.
- Radiopaque Stripe: A radiopaque stripe provides visibility on imaging, aiding in accurate placement and monitoring.
Material and Sizes
Constructed from medical-grade silicone, the tube is latex-free and natural rubber-free, ensuring compatibility with sensitive individuals. It is available in various French sizes ranging from 12 to 24, with stoma lengths to accommodate different anatomical needs. The balloon fill volumes are tailored to the size, with specific recommendations for each.
Connector Options
The tube offers connector types such as ENFit or Catheter Tip, and configurations include Gastric (G) tube, Gastro-jejunal (GJ) tube, and Jejunal (J) tube, each with unique features like anti-reflux valves and trimmable distal tips.
Accessories
Each kit may include extension sets for continuous or bolus feeding, syringes for balloon management and feeding, a gauze pad, water-soluble lubricant, and a comprehensive patient use and care guide.
Feeding and Maintenance
The device supports various feeding methods, including continuous pump feeding, bolus syringe feeding, and gravity feeding. Medication administration is facilitated through the extension set, with recommended flushing to maintain tube patency. Regular maintenance involves cleaning the tube and stoma site, rotating the tube, and checking the balloon volume.
Safety and Troubleshooting
Key safety features include an anti-reflux valve to prevent leakage, and guidelines for managing potential issues like balloon deflation or tube blockage. Users are advised to avoid certain lubricants and ensure compatibility with MIC-KEY extension sets.
Special Considerations
For pediatric use, the device's low-profile design supports normal activities, while GJ tubes require specific placement techniques. Compatibility with other devices is limited, emphasizing the need for using designated accessories.
General Precautions
As a single-use, sterile device, it should not be reused or resterilized. Users are encouraged to follow all provided instructions and check package integrity before use to ensure optimal performance and safety.