What Are MIC Jejunal Tubes?

MIC Jejunal Tubes are specialised medical devices used to provide nutrients directly into the jejunum—the middle section of the small intestine—bypassing the stomach entirely. This type of feeding is commonly required in:

• Patients with severe gastroparesis
• Those recovering from upper GI surgery
• Individuals at high risk of aspiration
• Chronic pancreatitis sufferers

Unlike gastric tubes, jejunal tubes are ideal for long-term enteral feeding when stomach access is not viable. MIC (Medical Innovations Corporation) branded jejunal tubes are known for their:

• High-quality medical-grade silicone
• Precise length and port design
• Compatibility with ENFit connectors
• Available balloon options for secure placement

The Avanos Balloon ENFit MIC Jejunal Tubes—available in a box of 2 and in multiple sizes—are engineered for reliability, comfort and ease of use, making them highly suitable for both adult and paediatric care settings.

Clinical Applications and Who Needs Them

MIC Jejunal Tubes are prescribed when conventional gastric feeding is ineffective or unsafe. Common medical conditions requiring jejunal feeding include:

1. Neurological disorders – such as stroke, cerebral palsy or Parkinson’s disease, where swallowing is impaired.
2. Post-surgical conditions – particularly after GI surgeries involving the oesophagus or stomach.
3. Cancer patients – especially those undergoing chemotherapy or radiation near the GI tract.
4. Severe reflux or aspiration pneumonia – where stomach contents may enter the lungs.

In these cases, jejunal tubes deliver continuous or bolus nutrition directly into the small intestine, bypassing the need for digestion in the stomach and lowering the aspiration risk.

Careful placement via surgical, endoscopic or fluoroscopic methods ensures optimal function. The balloon-tip version like the Avanos model improves retention and minimises discomfort during long-term therapy.

Safety, Compatibility and ENFit Standards

The ENFit connection system, mandated under international ISO 80369-3 standards, has been widely adopted to improve enteral feeding safety. This design:

• Prevents misconnections with intravenous or tracheal tubing
• Offers a secure locking system to eliminate accidental dislodgement
• Is colour-coded for easy identification
• Facilitates standardised syringe and tube connections

The Avanos Balloon ENFit MIC Jejunal Tubes are fully ENFit-compatible and comply with ISO standards, making them ideal for use in hospitals, aged care facilities, and home environments where tube feeding errors can have severe consequences.

Additional safety features include:

• Anti-reflux valves (in some models)
• Radiopaque striping for placement confirmation
• Compatible accessories for flushing and medication administration

Always consult a qualified clinician before choosing a feeding solution tailored to individual needs.

Why Choose Avanos Balloon ENFit MIC Jejunal Tubes?

The Avanos ENFit MIC Jejunal Tubes represent a significant advancement in enteral feeding device design. Their standout features include:

• ENFit Connector System: A global safety standard that prevents misconnections between enteral and non-enteral devices. It reduces the risk of harmful cross-connections with IV or respiratory lines1.
• Balloon Retention Technology: These tubes use a medical-grade balloon to keep the tube securely in place within the jejunum, reducing the risk of dislodgement and the need for repeated interventions.
• Soft Silicone Construction: Offers flexibility and comfort during extended use, which is especially important for patients requiring long-term care.
• Clearly Marked Insertion Depths: Ensure precise and safe placement, reducing potential complications.

Benefits of ENFit MIC Jejunal Tubes:

• Reduced risk of tube misconnections
• Easier flushing and medication delivery
• Supports high-calorie nutritional formulas
• Latex-free and DEHP-free materials

These characteristics make the Avanos MIC Jejunal Tubes not only safer but also easier to manage for caregivers and clinicians.

Supporting Patient Comfort and Long-Term Use

Long-term feeding tube users benefit immensely from the comfort-driven design of MIC Jejunal Tubes. The Avanos balloon-style model ensures minimal skin irritation, secure placement, and reduced site infections.

Here are a few tips for caregivers and users:

• Clean the stoma site daily with saline or prescribed cleanser
• Flush the tube regularly (as recommended by your care team) to avoid blockages
• Replace balloon tubes as per manufacturer guidance or if leakage occurs
• Secure the tube with medical tape or securement devices to reduce movement

Many patients report improved quality of life due to fewer feeding complications and less need for emergency replacements when using premium-grade tubes like the Avanos MIC Jejunal.

For added comfort, MIC Jejunal Tubes come in multiple sizes to accommodate different body types and anatomical placements.