What Is a Gastrostomy Feeding Tube?

A gastrostomy feeding tube, or G-tube, is inserted through the abdominal wall directly into the stomach to deliver nutrition, hydration, and medication. This is a crucial intervention for individuals who are unable to consume food orally due to various medical conditions, such as:

• Neurological disorders (e.g. cerebral palsy, stroke)
• Head and neck cancers
• Severe dysphagia
• Traumatic brain injury
• Post-surgical recovery

Unlike nasogastric tubes, which pass through the nose and throat, G-tubes provide a more permanent and less intrusive solution for long-term nutritional support. These devices can be placed either surgically or endoscopically (commonly known as PEG – percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy).

In Australia, enteral feeding practices are governed by stringent clinical standards. The Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care emphasises that all nutritional care must be safe, patient-centred, and consistent with best practices.

Understanding Avanos Mic-Key G-Tubes

Avanos Mic-Key is a globally recognised brand for low-profile balloon gastrostomy feeding tubes. These tubes are designed with a discrete external profile, making them ideal for both paediatric and adult patients. Their balloon-retained anchoring system allows for easier placement and replacement compared to traditional PEG tubes.

Key Features:

• Low-profile design: Minimises discomfort and is more discreet under clothing.
• Balloon retention mechanism: Helps keep the tube securely in place without invasive surgical anchors.
• ENFit connectors: Ensures safety by preventing tubing misconnections.
• Universal extension sets: Compatible with various feeding methods.
• Size variety: Available in 12Fr, 14Fr, 18Fr, and 24Fr, catering to individual patient needs.

The availability of extension sets with each Mic-Key gastrostomy feeding tube ensures that caregivers can perform feeding with ease, whether via bolus or continuous methods.

Choosing the Right French Size: 12Fr, 14Fr, 18Fr, 24Fr

French size (Fr) refers to the outer diameter of the feeding tube. Selecting the correct size is essential to optimise feeding efficiency and reduce complications.

Size Guide:

• 12Fr G-tube: Common for paediatric or slender adult patients.
• 14Fr G-tube: A versatile mid-range size suitable for various adults.
• 18Fr G-tube: Offers increased flow rate and reduced blockage risk.
• 24Fr G-tube: Often used in PEG applications where larger volumes are required.

Each size is available as a low-profile balloon gastrostomy tube with ENFit-compatible extension sets. The design of these products facilitates easy replacement and cleaning, reducing infection risks and improving long-term outcomes.

In addition, the Avanos Mic-Key 24Fr PEG button provides a secure, flush surface while allowing high-volume feeding and medication administration.

Support and Training for At-Home Caregivers

In Australia, many patients transition from hospital-based care to home-based feeding with the support of clinical teams. The Mic-Key gastrostomy system is specifically designed for ease of use in non-clinical settings.

Key Support Tools:

• Extension sets for bolus or gravity feeding
• Instruction manuals and training videos provided by Avanos
• TGA-registered support products for replacement and maintenance
• Community nursing services to assist with placement checks and balloon inflation

Educational support is available through organisations such as the Australian Enteral Nutrition Association (AENA) and the Dietitians Australia, who provide guidance on best practices and clinical decision-making.

Why Choose Avanos Mic-Key G-Tubes in Australia?

Choosing a reliable and clinically supported feeding tube system is critical for patient safety and outcomes. The Avanos Mic-Key range offers the following advantages:

• Trusted brand with global recognition and TGA compliance
• Available Australia-wide through authorised medical suppliers
• All sizes and accessories including ENFit connectors and PEG buttons
• Support for healthcare professionals and at-home users
• Durable design suitable for long-term use and easy replacement

Whether you are a nurse, carer, or purchasing manager, Avanos Mic-Key feeding tubes offer a solution that balances patient comfort with clinical reliability.

For individuals or facilities looking to procure these devices, our Gastrostomy Feeding Tube product page offers a complete overview and purchasing options.

The Importance of ENFit Connectors in Enteral Feeding

Introduced as part of the ISO 80369-3 international safety standard, ENFit connectors were developed to address the problem of tubing misconnections, a known risk with legacy connectors. These errors can result in dangerous cross-connections with intravenous lines or other medical tubing.

Benefits of ENFit Connectors:

• Locking mechanism ensures a secure fit.
• Incompatibility with non-enteral systems to eliminate misconnections.
• Standardisation across devices enhances safety protocols in hospitals and home settings.
• Compliance with global safety initiatives, such as the GEDSA (Global Enteral Device Supplier Association).

The use of ENFit connectors is rapidly becoming standard practice in Australian healthcare. The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) and many public health networks support transitioning to ENFit-compatible systems to enhance patient safety.

Avanos Mic-Key G-tubes with ENFit technology comply with these standards, ensuring a high level of safety for both clinical staff and at-home caregivers.

Clinical Applications and Benefits

Gastrostomy feeding tubes are used in a wide range of clinical scenarios, both acute and chronic. They provide crucial support to patients transitioning from hospital to home care, as well as those in palliative or long-term care.

Clinical Use Cases:

• Post-operative nutrition after head, neck or oesophageal surgery.
• Neurological impairment where swallowing is compromised.
• Cancer treatment to support nutritional intake during therapy.
• Developmental disabilities in children who cannot feed orally.

Key Benefits:

• Improved nutritional status without the distress of oral feeding.
• Reduced aspiration risk compared to nasogastric tubes.
• Convenience for caregivers during daily feeding routines.
• Quality of life improvement, especially with low-profile tubes that reduce social stigma.

Proper training and clinical oversight are critical for successful gastrostomy care. Patients and caregivers should be educated on:

• Daily cleaning and care
• Recognising signs of infection
• Troubleshooting blockages
• Balloon replacement procedures