What Are MIC Gastronomy Tubes?

MIC Gastronomy Tubes (G-tubes) are medical devices inserted through the abdomen directly into the stomach for enteral feeding. Commonly used when oral intake is not possible or safe, these tubes are ideal for patients with swallowing disorders, neurological conditions, or cancer.

The term MIC refers to a brand manufactured by Avanos Medical, a global leader in enteral nutrition and feeding solutions. MIC G-tubes come in two main configurations:

• MIC Balloon Gastrostomy Feeding Tube With ENFit Connectors
• MIC Balloon Bolus Gastrostomy Feeding Tube With ENFit Connectors

These tubes are sterile, gamma-radiated, and available in various sizes to accommodate paediatric and adult patients.

Key Features:

• Soft balloon retention for comfort and secure placement
• ENFit connectors to minimise tubing misconnections
• Gamma sterilisation for enhanced patient safety
• Durable medical-grade materials
• Clear markings for accurate positioning

Common Applications:

• Neurological impairments (e.g. stroke, ALS)
• Head and neck cancers
• Congenital anomalies in infants and children
• Severe malnutrition or dysphagia

Why Choose MIC Balloon Gastrostomy Feeding Tubes?

The Avanos MIC Balloon Gastrostomy Feeding Tube is a low-profile, versatile option for enteral feeding. It is widely used in both acute and long-term care settings.

Benefits include:

• Secure placement: The internal balloon keeps the tube in place while allowing easy removal and replacement.
• ENFit compatibility: Designed to meet ISO 80369-3 standards, reducing the risk of dangerous misconnections.
• Reduced infection risk: Gamma sterilisation and single-use packaging help maintain sterility.
• Range of sizes: Suitable for various patient demographics, from paediatrics to geriatrics.

According to a clinical study published in Nutrition in Clinical Practice, ENFit-compatible G-tubes reduce misconnections by up to 88%, improving patient safety in hospitals and home care environments.

Choosing the Right Tube Size and Type

Selecting the appropriate MIC gastronomy tube depends on several factors including:

• Patient age and size
• Feeding method (bolus vs continuous)
• Clinical condition
• Insertion site anatomy

Common Sizes:

• French sizes: typically range from 12Fr to 24Fr
• Length: adjusted to patient anatomy for secure fit
• Balloon volume: varies from 5 mL to 20 mL

It’s important to consult a medical professional to determine the most suitable type and size. Most MIC tubes are designed for easy replacement and minimal patient discomfort during tube changes.

Safety Tips and Tube Maintenance

Proper care is essential to prevent complications such as infection, dislodgement, or blockage.

Best Practices:

• Flush the tube with water before and after feeding or medication
• Clean the stoma site daily with mild soap and water
• Rotate the tube 360° daily to avoid tissue overgrowth
• Replace the balloon as per manufacturer guidelines (every 3–6 months)
• Store feeding equipment in a clean, dry place

Note: If leakage, redness, or swelling occurs, contact a healthcare professional immediately.

MIC Bolus Feeding Tubes: Designed for Gravity Feeding

The Avanos MIC Balloon Bolus Gastrostomy Feeding Tube is tailored for bolus or gravity feeding, allowing patients to receive a larger volume of nutrition at set intervals rather than continuous feeding.

Advantages of Bolus Tubes:

• Simpler feeding routines
• Mimics natural mealtimes
• Less equipment required (e.g. no pump)
• Ideal for active patients or home care use

These bolus tubes are also fitted with ENFit connectors, aligning with global safety regulations and helping to reduce adverse events from misconnected lines.

For patients who prefer bolus feeds due to lifestyle or clinical needs, this MIC tube offers flexibility without compromising on safety.

ENFit Connectors: Industry Standard for Enteral Safety

All MIC Gastronomy Tubes now incorporate ENFit connectors, an international standard aimed at enhancing patient safety in enteral feeding. ENFit is part of the ISO 80369-3 standard and is recommended by major safety bodies including:

• Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care
• U.S. FDA
• NHS UK Enteral Feeding Safety Program

Why ENFit?

• Prevents cross-connection between feeding, IV, and respiratory lines
• Designed to be incompatible with non-enteral systems
• Secure twist-lock mechanism ensures a tight, leak-free fit
• Reduces the risk of wrong-route delivery – a key contributor to medication errors

Since its introduction, ENFit connectors have become the new norm in Australian hospitals and aged care settings.