MIC-KEY Button Sizes Explained: French Sizes, Stoma Lengths & Avanos Part Numbers
If you're shopping for a replacement MIC-KEY button feeding tube, understanding the correct size is one of the most important steps before ordering.
Avanos MIC-KEY low-profile gastrostomy tubes are available in different French sizes and stoma lengths. Although two MIC-KEY buttons may look nearly identical, they may have different dimensions and manufacturer part numbers.
Whether you're searching for a 14 Fr MIC-KEY button, 18 Fr G-tube button, or a specific Avanos replacement part number, this guide explains how MIC-KEY sizing works, how to read product descriptions, and what to verify before purchasing.
What Is a MIC-KEY Button Feeding Tube?
A MIC-KEY button is a low-profile gastrostomy feeding tube manufactured by Avanos Medical.
Unlike traditional gastrostomy tubes with longer external tubing, a MIC-KEY button sits close to the skin and connects to a compatible removable extension set for prescribed enteral feeding, hydration, or medication administration.
MIC-KEY buttons are sometimes described as:
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MIC-KEY G-tube buttons
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Mickey button feeding tubes
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Low-profile gastrostomy tubes
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G-tube buttons
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Low-profile feeding buttons
These terms may appear in online searches and medical supply product descriptions.
The exact device must be prescribed and selected by a qualified healthcare professional.
How Are MIC-KEY Button Sizes Measured?
MIC-KEY low-profile gastrostomy tubes are generally identified by two measurements:
French size (Fr): The outside diameter of the feeding tube shaft.
Stoma length (cm): The shaft length specified for the device, corresponding to the patient's measured gastrostomy tract length.
Both measurements are necessary when identifying a replacement MIC-KEY button.
For example, an 18 Fr × 2.0 cm MIC-KEY button is not the same size as an 18 Fr × 2.5 cm button, even though both have the same French diameter.
What Does French Size Mean?
French size is a standard measurement system used for catheters and medical tubing.
One French unit equals one-third of a millimeter in outside diameter.
The larger the French size, the larger the outside diameter of the tube.
MIC-KEY Button French Size Conversion Chart
| French Size | Approximate Outside Diameter |
|---|---|
| 12 Fr | 4.0 mm |
| 14 Fr | 4.7 mm |
| 16 Fr | 5.3 mm |
| 18 Fr | 6.0 mm |
| 20 Fr | 6.7 mm |
| 24 Fr | 8.0 mm |
These are standard French-size conversions. They describe nominal tube outside diameter, not the diameter of the external button or internal retention balloon.
What Is the Most Common MIC-KEY Button Size?
MIC-KEY buttons are available in multiple French sizes, but there is no single size appropriate for every patient.
The prescribed size depends on the patient's anatomy, established gastrostomy tract, clinical requirements, and the specific feeding device.
A larger French size is not automatically better, and changing tube diameter without clinical guidance can cause complications.
What Is MIC-KEY Button Stoma Length?
Stoma length refers to the length of the gastrostomy tract that the low-profile feeding tube must accommodate.
On product listings, this measurement is usually expressed in centimeters.
For example:
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14 Fr × 1.5 cm
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16 Fr × 2.0 cm
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18 Fr × 2.5 cm
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20 Fr × 3.0 cm
These examples illustrate how sizes are written; availability depends on the exact product model.
A MIC-KEY button must have the appropriate prescribed shaft length to fit the patient's gastrostomy tract.
A button that is too short or too long may cause problems with fit, comfort, leakage, or tissue irritation.
How Is Stoma Length Measured?
Stoma length is determined using a manufacturer-approved measurement method and an appropriate measuring device.
A trained healthcare professional should confirm the correct measurement and replacement size.
Do not estimate stoma length by measuring the outside of the abdomen or choosing a tube based only on a photograph.
MIC-KEY Button Size Chart: Understanding French Size and Stoma Length
The following table illustrates how French size and stoma length work together.
| Example Button Size | Tube Diameter | Stoma Length |
|---|---|---|
| 12 Fr × 1.5 cm | 4.0 mm | 1.5 cm |
| 14 Fr × 1.5 cm | 4.7 mm | 1.5 cm |
| 14 Fr × 2.0 cm | 4.7 mm | 2.0 cm |
| 16 Fr × 2.0 cm | 5.3 mm | 2.0 cm |
| 18 Fr × 2.0 cm | 6.0 mm | 2.0 cm |
| 18 Fr × 2.5 cm | 6.0 mm | 2.5 cm |
| 20 Fr × 3.0 cm | 6.7 mm | 3.0 cm |
| 24 Fr × 3.5 cm | 8.0 mm | 3.5 cm |
This is an illustrative sizing chart, not a complete Avanos product availability chart. Verify each specific combination in the current manufacturer catalog.
Why Do Two MIC-KEY Buttons Have Different Part Numbers?
Each distinct product configuration may have its own manufacturer part number.
Part numbers help distinguish variations in:
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French size
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Stoma length
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Feeding tube type
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Retention and connector configuration
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Other model-specific characteristics
For purchasing purposes, the manufacturer's exact part number is more reliable than searching only for "MIC-KEY button."
How to Read Avanos MIC-KEY Manufacturer Part Numbers
Avanos MIC-KEY low-profile gastrostomy tubes commonly use part numbers that encode product family and size information.
For example, a product number may follow a pattern such as:
0120-18-2.0
For MIC-KEY low-profile balloon-retained gastrostomy tubes in this product series:
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0120 identifies the product family.
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18 identifies the 18 Fr tube diameter.
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2.0 identifies the 2.0 cm stoma length.
This example demonstrates the numbering format; it should not be used to infer that every combination or model is currently available.
Example: Comparing Two MIC-KEY Part Numbers
| Example Part Number | French Size | Stoma Length |
|---|---|---|
| 0120-18-2.0 | 18 Fr | 2.0 cm |
| 0120-18-2.5 | 18 Fr | 2.5 cm |
The French size is identical, but the stoma length differs.
Important: Other Avanos feeding tube families use different numbering conventions. Always confirm the product description and current manufacturer catalog before ordering.
MIC-KEY G-Tube Sizes vs. MIC-KEY GJ-Tube Sizes
MIC-KEY gastrostomy buttons and gastrojejunal feeding tubes are different devices.
A MIC-KEY G-tube provides access to the stomach, while a MIC-KEY GJ-tube provides both gastric and jejunal access.
GJ-tube identification may require an additional measurement: jejunal length.
| Measurement | MIC-KEY G-Tube | MIC-KEY GJ-Tube |
|---|---|---|
| French Size | Yes | Yes |
| Stoma Length | Yes | Yes |
| Jejunal Length | Not applicable | Yes |
| Exact Part Number | Required | Required |
Do not order a G-tube as a replacement for a GJ-tube simply because the French size and stoma length match.
Does MIC-KEY Button Size Affect Extension Set Compatibility?
The MIC-KEY low-profile button uses a specialized connection system for compatible extension sets.
Extension sets may vary by:
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Continuous or bolus feeding configuration
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Right-angle or straight connection
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Tubing length
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ENFit connector configuration
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Manufacturer part number
A MIC-KEY extension set is not necessarily selected by matching its tubing diameter to the French size of the G-tube.
Instead, verify the exact feeding tube model and the manufacturer's approved extension set compatibility.
What Is an ENFit Extension Set?
ENFit is a standardized enteral connector system designed to reduce the risk of misconnections between enteral feeding equipment and other medical tubing.
Some MIC-KEY extension sets feature ENFit-compatible connectors.
Always confirm that the extension set is compatible with both the MIC-KEY button and the patient's feeding administration equipment.
How to Find the Correct Replacement MIC-KEY Button
Before purchasing a replacement, verify the information on the existing product packaging, prescription, or clinical supply order.
MIC-KEY Replacement Ordering Checklist
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Confirm the device type. Is it a MIC-KEY G-tube or GJ-tube?
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Confirm the French size. For example, 14 Fr, 16 Fr, or 18 Fr.
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Confirm the stoma length. For example, 1.5 cm, 2.0 cm, or 2.5 cm.
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Confirm any additional required dimensions. GJ-tubes may require a jejunal length.
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Identify the exact Avanos manufacturer part number.
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Verify connector and accessory compatibility.
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Confirm the current prescription and clinical instructions.
If any information is missing or uncertain, contact the treating healthcare professional before ordering.
Frequently Asked Questions About MIC-KEY Button Sizes
What sizes do MIC-KEY buttons come in?
Avanos offers MIC-KEY low-profile gastrostomy tubes in multiple French diameters and stoma lengths. The available combinations depend on the specific model and current product catalog.
What does 18 Fr mean on a MIC-KEY button?
18 Fr refers to the nominal outside diameter of the tube shaft, approximately 6.0 millimeters.
What does 18 Fr × 2.0 cm mean?
It identifies a tube with an 18 Fr outside diameter and a 2.0 cm stoma length.
Is an 18 Fr MIC-KEY button bigger than a 14 Fr button?
Yes, the 18 Fr tube shaft has a larger nominal outside diameter. However, the two devices may have different stoma lengths as well.
Can I use a 2.5 cm button instead of a 2.0 cm button?
Not without approval from the treating healthcare professional. Different stoma lengths are not automatically interchangeable.
How do I know my MIC-KEY button size?
Check the product packaging, prescribed supply order, or device identification information, and confirm the size with your healthcare provider.
Do MIC-KEY buttons come in pediatric and adult sizes?
MIC-KEY devices are available in a range of dimensions for different patient needs. Selection is based on the patient's anatomy and clinical requirements, not age alone.
Does the MIC-KEY extension set have to match the French size?
Extension set selection is based on the specific feeding tube model and connector compatibility. Follow the manufacturer's compatibility information rather than assuming the extension set must have the same French size.
Are MIC-KEY G-tube and GJ-tube part numbers the same?
No. They are different product families with different configurations and identification requirements.
Can I order a replacement MIC-KEY button without knowing the part number?
A supplier may be able to help identify the product from a complete prescribed description, but the exact model and size should be confirmed before ordering.
Shop Avanos MIC-KEY Feeding Tubes at Lexicon Medical Supply
Need a specific MIC-KEY button size or Avanos replacement feeding tube?
Lexicon Medical Supply helps customers, healthcare providers, and institutional purchasing teams source medical supplies, including enteral feeding products and accessories.
When contacting us about a MIC-KEY replacement, have the following information ready:
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Avanos manufacturer part number, if available
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French size
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Stoma length
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G-tube or GJ-tube designation
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Required quantity
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Compatible extension set requirements
Visit Lexicon Medical Supply to explore available feeding tube products or contact our team for product identification and availability assistance.
For additional information about feeding tube types and accessories, read our companion guide: Avanos MIC-KEY Feeding Tubes: G-Tube Buttons, Sizes, Extension Sets & Buying Guide.
Medical disclaimer: This article is intended for general product education and purchasing assistance. It is not medical advice or a guide to independently measure, size, insert, or replace a feeding tube. Device selection and replacement must follow the treating healthcare professional's direction and current manufacturer instructions. Product configurations and availability may change.
