16Fr 18Fr 20Fr Tube Clamps for Secure Enteral Feeding
Discover versatile side loading clamps for MIC G, J, and GJ tubes—designed to fit 16Fr, 18Fr, and 20Fr sizes with secure, reliable grip.
Summary
When it comes to enteral nutrition, securement accessories are just as important as the feeding tubes themselves. The Side Loading Clamp for 16Fr, 18Fr, and 20Fr MIC G, J, and GJ feeding tubes provides essential control over flow, security, and tube handling. Whether used for medication delivery, gravity feeding, or controlled boluses, this reusable clamp enhances safety and convenience for caregivers and patients alike. Built for universal fit and ease of use, it’s a critical component in any clinical or home-based enteral setup.
What Are 16Fr, 18Fr, and 20Fr Feeding Tubes?
The terms 16Fr, 18Fr, and 20Fr refer to the French gauge scale—a system used to measure the outer diameter of catheters and tubes. In enteral feeding, these gauges represent medium-to-large tube sizes commonly used for:
- MIC gastrostomy tubes (G-tubes)
- Jejunal feeding tubes (J-tubes)
- Gastro-jejunal tubes (GJ-tubes)
These sizes are typically selected based on the patient’s nutritional requirements, the viscosity of feeding formula, and medical condition.
Why clamp compatibility matters:
Clamps or clips designed to secure these sizes must provide:
- Strong enough grip without occluding the tube completely
- A universal fit across 16Fr–20Fr ranges
- Compatibility with standard medical-grade silicone tubing
- Reusability or single-use sterilisation options
The Side Loading Clamp for these tube sizes ticks all these boxes—and more.
Key Features of the Side Loading Clamp for 16Fr–20Fr Tubes
This clamp is specifically engineered to fit and function with MIC G, J, and GJ tubes ranging from 16 to 20 French sizes. Here's what makes it indispensable:
- Side loading mechanism: Allows for quick attachment without disconnecting the tube
- High-tension grip: Prevents leakage or backflow during feeds
- Precision grooves: Designed to accommodate specific French sizes (16Fr, 18Fr, 20Fr)
- Medical-grade materials: Durable, autoclavable plastic that’s latex- and DEHP-free
- Compact size: Easily fits in enteral kits, nurse trolleys, or home supply bins
Sold in a box of 50, these clamps are ideal for busy wards, aged care facilities, and homecare teams managing multiple patients.
Compatible Tube Types and Use Cases
The Side Loading Clamp is specifically compatible with:
- MIC Gastrostomy Tubes (G-tubes) – used for direct stomach feeding
- MIC Jejunal Tubes (J-tubes) – for patients requiring post-pyloric nutrition
- MIC Gastro-Jejunal Tubes (GJ-tubes) – for dual-port feeding and decompression
Common clinical applications:
- Medication administration – Pause feeds or isolate lines without disconnection
- Bolus feeding – Regulate flow with a firm clamp closure
- Gravity feeding – Prevent airlocks or fluid backflow
- Post-operative care – Simplify monitoring and handling of multiple tubes
These clamps can be especially helpful when patients are:
- Transitioning between hospital and home care
- Using feeding pumps or gravity bags
- Receiving multiple types of medications via different ports
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Benefits for Clinical and Home Use
Whether you're working in a hospital, clinic, or homecare environment, the Side Loading Clamp improves day-to-day handling of enteral devices.
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For Clinicians:
- Speeds up transitions between feeding and flushing
- Prevents unintentional leaks during line changes
- Reduces tube manipulation, preserving stoma integrity
- Compatible with commonly used MIC feeding systems
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For Caregivers and Patients:
- Easy to use with one hand
- Lightweight and discreet
- Provides peace of mind during ambulation or transport
- Makes medication delivery more manageable
According to the European Society for Clinical Nutrition and Metabolism (ESPEN), ensuring safe and uninterrupted enteral feeding is paramount in preventing hospital-acquired malnutrition1. Securement accessories like clamps directly contribute to this goal.
Best Practice for Using Feeding Tube Clamps
To get the most out of your 16Fr, 18Fr, or 20Fr side loading clamp, follow these simple best practice guidelines:
- Check tubing for kinks or wear before applying the clamp.
- Load the tube laterally—no need to disconnect feeding extensions.
- Close the clamp fully until secure, avoiding over-tightening.
- Position the clamp away from the stoma to reduce pressure at the site.
- Clean and disinfect regularly if using reusable clamps.
Note: Always follow clinical protocols for infection control and proper clamp positioning to maintain tube patency and patient comfort.
Conclusion
When feeding tubes are part of a patient's daily routine, small accessories like the Side Loading Clamp for 16Fr, 18Fr, and 20Fr tubes make a big difference. By delivering reliable, adjustable flow control and universal compatibility across MIC G, J, and GJ tube types, these clamps streamline nutrition, medication, and maintenance routines.
Built for performance, these medical-grade clamps support effective enteral feeding in hospital and home settings alike—helping to reduce waste, increase safety, and provide flexibility for patients and caregivers.
Simplify your enteral care with smart accessories.
Shop the 16Fr 18Fr 20Fr Side Loading Clamp Box of 50 and equip your team with secure, reusable clamps made for MIC GJ feeding tubes.
📞 Call 1300 615 193 or order online at our website.
