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The MIC-KEY experience with the pediatric patient
Insights
Gastrostomy tubes support pediatric nutrition and medication needs when oral intake is insufficient. The article reviews the MIC-KEY device as a modern alternative to traditional gastrostomy catheters for children.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Gastroenterology
- Surgical Devices
- Medical Technology
Background:
- Gastrostomy creation facilitates nutritional support and medication delivery in pediatric patients with functional gastrointestinal tracts but inadequate oral intake.
- Indications for gastrostomy in children include failure to thrive, certain medical conditions, and the need for long-term access.
- Traditional gastrostomy involved silicone catheters with mushroom tips.
Observation:
- Alternative gastrostomy devices have emerged, offering different options for pediatric care.
- The MIC-KEY device is presented as a specific alternative to traditional gastrostomy tubes.
- This article focuses on the application and evaluation of the MIC-KEY device in pediatric patients.
Findings:
- The MIC-KEY device represents a newer option for pediatric gastrostomy.
- The article provides an introduction to this device for Enterostomal Therapy (ET) nurses.
- A discussion of the advantages and disadvantages of the MIC-KEY device in pediatric use is included.
Implications:
- ET nurses can consider the MIC-KEY device as a viable alternative for pediatric gastrostomy.
- Understanding the benefits and drawbacks of new devices like MIC-KEY can optimize patient care.
- This information aids healthcare professionals in selecting appropriate gastrostomy solutions for pediatric patients.
Abstract:
A gastrostomy, creation of a gastrocutaneous fistulous tract, may be indicated for the pediatric patient with a functional gastrointestinal tract who is unwilling or unable to consume sufficient nutrition to meet caloric needs for optimal growth and development. A gastrostomy may also be used for medication administration, decompression, or access. Several pediatric conditions or anomalies may necessitate gastrostomy. Traditionally, a silicone catheter with a mushroom tip was placed through a gastrostomy. Recently, however, alternative gastrostomy devices have become available. The MIC-KEY device (Medical Innovations Corporation, Milpitas, Calif.) is one such device. This article introduces the ET nurse to the MIC-KEY device as an option and discusses its advantages and disadvantages in the pediatric patient.