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The Miller-Abbott tube is specifically designed for drainage and decompression of the small intestine. This double-lumen tube is employed primarily in cases of intestinal obstruction. One lumen acts as a drainage channel to remove gastric and intestinal contents, while the other is used for suction or venting.

The tube's design allows it to be inserted into the small intestine through the nasal passage, where it can help alleviate pressure by facilitating the removal of accumulated gas and fluid in cases of obstruction. The Miller-Abbott tube's effectiveness in relieving pressure and preventing complications makes it a key instrument in managing small intestinal conditions.

Additionally, while other tubes such as the Salem sump, Cantor, and Levin can be used for various gastrointestinal purposes, they do not provide the same specific functionality for decompression and drainage in the small intestine as the Miller-Abbott tube does.