Aspiration Of Subglottic Secretions Research Articles

Evaluation of continuous aspiration of subglottic secretions in prevention of microaspiration during general anesthesia: a randomized controlled pilot study

To assess the difference between endotracheal tubes (ETT) with continuous suction of subglottic secretions (CASS) and standard ETT in preventing secretions movement from the pharynx into the trachea, past the inflated cuff during general anesthesia. This randomized, controlled trial enrolled 50 patients who underwent general anesthesia for elective abdominal surgery lasting longer than two hours. They received either ETT with CASS: Teleflex ISIS HVT (GISIS, n=17) or Mallinckrodt TaperGuard Evac (GEvac, n=17), or ETT without suction: Mallinckrodt Intermediate Hi-Lo (GStand, n=16). Methylene blue dye solution (10 mL) was delivered into the hypopharynx every 60 minutes. Subglottic secretions were continuously suctioned. Fiberoptic bronchoscopy was performed every 20 minutes and during tracheal extubation to evaluate the dye location. The groups did not differ in age, sex, body mass index, race, American Society of Anesthesiologists status, and surgery type. Dye migrated past the inflated cuff into the distal trachea in no patient with ETT with CASS and in 13% of patients with standard ETT. On tracheal extubation, dye migrated into the distal trachea more often in the GStand group (56%), compared with the GEvac (13%) and GISIS group (29%) (P=0.045). The GISIS group had 26±19 mL of secretions suctioned from above the inflated cuff, while the GEvac group had 13±10 mL (P=0.05). Compared with standard ETT, ETT with CASS efficiently removed secretions during general anesthesia, prevented secretions from migrating past the inflated cuff, and significantly reduced the amount of secretions that reached the distal airways on tracheal extubation.

Evaluation of the effects of applying the ventricular care bundle (VCB) method for reducing ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) in the intensive care unit of a general Chinese tertiary hospital.

Ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) is a severe complication that occurs within patients who must use ventilators in the intensive care unit (ICU). Ventilator care bundles (VCB) have been applied across many developed regions and have produced positive results in controlling VAP. In this study, we report on the implementation and effects of using VCBs to manage VAP in a general tertiary hospital in the Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region of China. A targeted surveillance method was used to survey all the patients (n=4,716) in the ICU from June 1, 2017 to May 31, 2019. Patients from June 1, 2017 to May 31, 2018, and June 1, 2018, to May 31, 2019, were respectively divided into 2 groups: the control group (2,029 patients) and intervention group (2,687 patients). These dates were selected because VCB was implemented from June 1, 2018, in our institution. The variables that were associated with VCB and observed were the head-of-bed elevation, oral care, maintenance of the pressure for the cuff of the endotracheal tube, aspiration of subglottic secretion, daily sedation vacation protocol, daily extubation assessment results, and hand hygiene. After collecting the data, the compliance of VCB, ventilator use ratio, and the incidence rate of VAP in these 2 groups were compared. We observed that compliance with all of the intervention measures for VCB improved results in the intervention group compared to the control. Furthermore, the compliance rate of hand hygiene increased from 71.99% to 91.97%, and the head-of-bed elevation of 30°-45° increased from 62.02% to 85.96%. All differences between these two groups were statistically significant, according to the χ 2 -test. The ventilator use ratio was statistically and significantly lower in the intervention group (34.86%) compared to the control group (40.29%) (χ 2 =95.513, P<0.001). The incidence rate of VAP was statistically and significantly lower in the intervention group (13.70‰) compared to the control group (18.85‰) (χ 2 =5.471, P=0.019). Our results show that VCB prevents VAP. Therefore, personnel training, clinical supervision, and surveillance feedback could promote a reduction in intervention measures.

The changes of endotracheal tube intracuff pressures after ear and head and neck surgery-related positions: a prospective observational study

IntroductionThe cuff of an endotracheal tube seals the airway to facilitate positive-pressure ventilation and reduce subglottic secretion aspiration. However, an increase or decrease in endotracheal tube intracuff pressure can lead to many morbidities. ObjectiveThe main purpose of this study is to investigate the effect of different head and neck positions on endotracheal tube intracuff pressure during ear and head and neck surgeries. MethodsA total of 90 patients undergoing elective right ear (Group 1: n=30), left ear (Group 2: n=30) or head and neck (Group 3: n=30) surgery were involved in the study. A standardized general anesthetic was given and cuffed endotracheal tubes by the assistance of video laryngoscope were placed in all patients. The pilot balloon of each endotracheal tube was connected to the pressure transducer and standard invasive pressure monitoring was set to measure intracuff pressure values continuously. The first intracuff pressure value was adjusted to 18.4mmHg (25cm H2O) at supine and neutral neck position. The patients then were given appropriate head and neck positions before related-surgery started. These positions were left rotation, right rotation and extension by under-shoulder pillow with left/right rotation for Groups 1, 2 and 3, respectively. The intracuff pressures were measured and noted after each position, at 15th, 30th, 60th, 90th minutes and before the extubation. If intracuff pressure deviated from the targeted value of 20–30cm H2O at anytime, it was set to 25cm H2O again. ResultsThe intracuff pressure values were increased from 25 to 26.73 (25–28.61) cm H2O after left neck rotation (p=0.009) and from 25 to 27.20 (25.52–28.67) cm H2O after right neck rotation (p=0.012) in Groups 1 and 2, respectively. In Group 3, intracuff pressure values at the neutral position, after extension by under-shoulder pillow and left or right rotation were 25, 29.41 (27.02–36.94) and 34.55 (28.43–37.31) cm H2O, respectively. There were significant differences between the neutral position and extension by under-shoulder pillow (p<0.001), and also between neutral position and rotation after extension (p<0.001). However, there was no statistically significant increase of intracuff pressure between extension by under-shoulder pillow and neck rotation after extension positions (p=0.033). ConclusionAccessing the continuous intracuff pressure value measurements before and during ear and head and neck surgeries is beneficial to avoid possible adverse effects/complications of surgical position-related pressure changes.

Cuidados preventivos para pneumonia associada a ventilação mecânica: revisão integrativa

Introdução: A pneumonia associada a ventilação mecânica é a segunda causa de infecção em pacientes de unidade de terapia intensiva causando altas taxas de mortalidade e de custos hospitalares. O objetivo deste estudo foi identificar na literatura os cuidados mais importantes para prevenir pneumonia associada a ventilação mecânica. Metodologia: Trata-se de estudo exploratório em fontes secundárias, com abordagem qualitativa e utilização do método de revisão integrativa. Resultados: Obteve-se amostragem de 18 artigos publicados, os cuidados considerados mais importantes para prevenção de pneumonia associada a ventilação mecânica adotados pelos profissionais de saúde foram: higiene oral (94,4%), elevação da cabeceira no leito 30º- 45º (77,7%), pressão do cuff (66,6%), aspiração de secreção subglótica (55,5%), manutenção do circuito do ventilador (38,85) e higienização das mãos (33,3%). Conclusão: O estudo mostra a importância da aplicação destes cuidados para redução na taxa de incidência de pneumonia associada a ventilação mecânica, no tempo de uso do ventilador mecânico e de permanência na unidade de terapia intensiva. E revela que o cuidado menos realizado pelos profissionais é a higienização das mãos considerado um cuidado simples, prático e eficaz para a prevenção de infecções hospitalares.&#x0D; &#x0D;

Application and promotion of continuous aspiration of subglottic secretionby stabilized pressure suction technique

Objective Through the popularization of the technique of stabilized pressure of the subglottic secretion, to improve the drainage effect of subglottic secretion of intensive care unit (ICU) patients in this region, and to improve the quality of subglottic secretion management. Methods The stabilized pressure device on continuous aspiration of subglottic secretion was designed and the pressure-stabilized technique for subglotted secretion was promoted in 7 hospitals in Zhejiang province from January to December of 2018. The quality of drainage of subglottic secretion before and after the promotion of the stabilized technique were compared. In every hospital the included research objects were divided into two groups, and the subglottic secretion stabilized pressure devices adopted two suctioning methods of intermittent and continuous accordingly in the two groups: intermittent group (n=161) and continuous group (n=160) , the incidence of blockage of decompression holes and instability of negative pressure control were compared between the two groups, and the incidences of drainage, cough, blockage of tube and mucosal injury during were compared. Results After promotion, the quality of subglotted secretion suctioning in 7 hospitals all improved, among which the dimensions of suction operation and outcome indicator showed statistically significant difference before and after promotion (P<0.05) . In terms of the performance of stabilized pressure device, the blockage rate of decompression holes in continuous group (3.13%) was higher than that in intermittent group, and the incidence of negative pressure control instability (3.75%) was lower than that in intermittent group; in terms of the effect of subglottic drainage, the drainage flow rate of subglottic secretion in continuous group was (53.55±5.92) ml/d, and the daily coughing times were (3.01±1.13) , both better than the intermittent group, the difference was statistically significant (t=12.374, -2.625; P< 0.05) . Conclusions Subglottic secretion pressure-stabilized device has good performance, and the technology of pressure-stabilized can effectively improve drainage effect. The method of continuous is recommended in this study, which has a significant effect on improving the drainage quality of subglottic secretion and has a good promotion effect. Key words: Intensive care unit; Subglottic secretion; Suction technique; Technique promotion

Construction of the quality indicator system of continuous aspiration of subglottic secretion

Objective To construct a quality evaluation index system for continuous aspiration of subglottic secretion (CASS) , in order to provide references for clinical objective evaluation of the quality of this technology. Methods Based on the theory of structure-process-outcome model, through literature review, expert meeting, expert consultation and principal component analysis, the quality evaluation index system and the index weights of all indicators for CASS were finally determined by 23 intensive care unit experts from 5 provinces (autonomous regions) and 11 cities through two rounds of consultation. SPSS 18.0 software was used in statistical analysis. Results The effective responsive rate of the questionnaires in the two rounds were 92.0%, 87.0%; the expert authority coefficients were 0.887, 0.895; Kendall's idea coordination coefficients were 0.13, 0.09 (P<0.01) .The final index system consisted of 3 first-level indicators, 8 second-level indicators, and 23 third-level indicators. Conclusions The process of the construction of nursing quality evaluation index system for CASS is scientific, and the contents of index entries are reasonable, which can ensure the effective implementation of the technology. Key words: Intensive care unit; Subglottic secretion; Aspiration technology; Quality assessment; Delphi method

Drug Prevention and Control of Ventilator-Associated Pneumonia.

Ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) is one of the most prevalent and serious complications of mechanical ventilation, which is considered a common nosocomial infection in critically ill patients. There are some great options for the prevention of VAP: (i) minimize ventilator exposure; (ii) intensive oral care; (iii) aspiration of subglottic secretions; (iv) maintain optimal positioning and encourage mobility; and (v) prophylactic probiotics. Furthermore, clinical management of VAP depends on appropriate antimicrobial therapy, which needs to be selected based on individual patient factors, such as previous antibacterial therapy, history of hospitalization or mechanical ventilation, and bacterial pathogens and antibiotic resistance patterns. In fact, antibiotic resistance has exponentially increased over the last decade, and the isolation of a multidrug-resistant (MDR) pathogen has been identified as an independent predictor of inadequate initial antibiotic therapy and which is significantly associated with increased mortality. Multiple attempts were used in the treatment of VAP, such as novel antibacterial agents, inhaled antibiotics and monoclonal antibodies. In this review, we summarize the current therapeutic options for the prevention and treatment of VAP, aiming to better management of VAP in clinical practice.

Unintentional endotracheal tube cuff deflation during routine checks: a simulation study.

Endotracheal tube cuff pressures should be maintained between 20 and 30 cm H2 O to prevent the aspiration of subglottic secretions past the cuff. Guidance recommends regular monitoring of the cuff pressure, performed using a handheld manometer/inflator. Poor technique can lead to transient deflation of the cuff, leading to the bolus aspiration of upper respiratory tract secretions, tracheal colonization and, ultimately, ventilator-associated pneumonia. To determine whether intensive care staff transiently deflate the endotracheal tube cuff to below 20 cm H2 O during routine cuff pressure checks when using a handheld manometer/inflator device. This was an exploratory simulation study. A sample of medical (n = 10) and nursing staff (n = 10), capable of caring for a tracheally intubated patient, participated in the study on a single day. A mannequin was intubated with a standard oral endotracheal tube with the cuff pressure set at 50 cm H2 O. Participants were required to check and correct the cuff pressure to the appropriate level with a manometer. The lowest attained and the final target pressures were recorded. Three doctors were unfamiliar with the manometer and did not attempt measurement. During cuff pressure readjustment, 59% (10/17) of participants transiently deflated the cuff below 20 cm H2 O and then re-inflated to attain the final pressure. Of these participants, four deflated the cuff pressure to 0 cm H2 O before re-adjusting it back into range. Most participants, 88% (15/17), corrected the final cuff pressure to between 20 and 30 cm H2 O. Poor technique when using the manometer led to unintentional cuff deflation during routine checks. In clinical practice, this could increase the risk of pulmonary aspiration and ventilator-associated pneumonia. Further research into alternatives for handheld manometers, such as automated continuous cuff pressure monitors, is warranted. Cuff deflations can easily occur during routine cuff pressure checks. Staff should be aware of the implications of cuff deflations and seek to improve training with manometers.

Efficacy of continuous versus intermittent subglottic secretion drainage in preventing ventilator-associated pneumonia in patients requiring mechanical ventilation: A single-center randomized controlled trial.

ObjectiveAspiration of subglottic secretion is a widely used intervention to prevent ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP). This study aimed to compare the efficacy of continuous and intermittent subglottic secretion drainage (SSD) in preventing VAP.MethodsA single-center randomized controlled trial was conducted on adult postoperative patients who were expected to undergo mechanical ventilation for more than 48 hours. Primary outcome measure was incidence of VAP and secondary outcome measures were length of mechanical ventilation and intensive-care unit (ICU) stay.ResultsFifty-nine patients received continuous SSD, while 60 patients received intermittent SSD. Of these 119 patients, 88 (74%) were excluded and 15 and 16 patients were allocated to receive continuous and intermittent SSD, respectively. VAP was detected in 4 (26.7%) and 7 (43.8%) patients in the continuous and intermittent groups, respectively, (p=0.320). The length of mechanical ventilation was significantly shorter (p=0.034) in the continuous group (99.5±47.1 h) than in the intermittent group (159.9±94.5 h). The length of ICU stay was also shorter (p=0.0097) in the continuous group (6.3±2.1 days) than the intermittent group (9.8±4.8 days).ConclusionsAlthough continuous SSD did not reduce the incidence of VAP, it reduced the length of mechanical ventilation and ICU stay when compared to intermittent SSD.

Predictive value of α-amylase in tracheal aspirates for ventilator-associated pneumonia in elderly patients.

This study aims to investigate the correlation between α-amylase in tracheal aspirates and risk factors of aspiration, as well as ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP), in elderly patients undergoing mechanical ventilation and explore the clinical value of α-amylase for predicting VAP. Tracheal aspirates were collected from elderly patients within 2weeks after tracheal intubation in mechanical ventilation, and α-amylase was detected. Patients were grouped according to the presence of VAP. The correlation between α-amylase and risk factors of aspiration before intubation, as well as VAP, were analyzed. The sample of this study comprised 147 patients. The average age of these patients was 86.9years. The incidence of VAP was 21% during the study period. Tracheal aspirate α-amylase level increased with the increase in the number of risk factors for aspiration before intubation, α-amylase level was significantly higher in the VAP group than in the non-VAP group, the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC) of the diagnostic value of α-amylase for VAP was 0.813 (95% CI: 0.721-0.896), threshold value was 4,681.5U/L, sensitivity was 0.801 and specificity was 0.793. Logistic multivariate analysis revealed the following risk factors for VAP: a number of risk factors before intubation of ≥3, a Glasgow score of <8 points, the absence of continuous aspiration of subglottic secretion and a tracheal aspirate α-amylase level of >4681.5U/L. Tracheal aspirate α-amylase can serve as a biomarker for predicting VAP in elderly patients undergoing mechanical ventilation.

Incidence of airway complications in patients using endotracheal tubes with continuous aspiration of subglottic secretions

BackgroundContinuous aspiration of subglottic secretions is effective in preventing ventilator-associated pneumonia, but it involves a risk of mucosal damage. The main objective of our study was to determine the incidence of airway complications related to continuous aspiration of subglottic secretions.MethodsIn consecutive adult patients with continuous aspiration of subglottic secretions, we prospectively recorded clinical airway complications during the period after extubation. A multidetector computed tomography of the neck was performed during the period of 5 days following extubation to classify subglottic and tracheal lesions as mucosal thickening, cartilage thickening or deep ulceration.ResultsIn the 86 patients included in the study, 6 (6.9%) had transient dyspnea, 7 (8.1%) had upper airway obstruction and 18 (20.9%) had dysphonia at extubation. Univariate analysis identified more attempts required for intubation (2.3 ± 1.1 vs. 1.2 ± 0.5; p = 0.001), difficult intubation (71.4 vs. 10.1%, p = 0.001) and Cormack score III–IV (71.4 vs. 8.8%; p < 0.001) as risk factors for having an upper airway obstruction at extubation. The incidence of failed extubation among patients after planned extubation was 18.9% and 11 patients (12.7%) required tracheostomy. A multidetector computed tomography was performed in 37 patients following extubation, and injuries were observed in 9 patients (24.3%) and classified as tracheal injuries in 2 patients (1 cartilage thickening and 1 mild stenosis with cartilage thickening) and as subglottic mucosal thickenings in 7 patients.ConclusionsThe incidence of upper airway obstruction after extubation in patients with continuous aspiration of subglottic secretions was 8.1%, and the injuries observed by computed tomography were not severe and located mostly in subglottic space.

CO2 driven endotracheal tube cuff control in critically ill patients: A randomized controlled study.

BackgroundTo determine the safety and clinical efficacy of an innovative integrated airway system (AnapnoGuard™ 100 system) that continuously monitors and controls the cuff pressure (Pcuff), while facilitating the aspiration of subglottic secretions (SS).MethodsThis was a prospective, single centre, open-label, randomized, controlled feasibility and safety trial. The primary endpoint of the study was the rate of device related adverse events (AE) and serious AE (SAE) as a result of using AnapnoGuard (AG) 100 during mechanical ventilation. Secondary endpoints were: (1) mechanical complications rate (2) ICU staff satisfaction; (3) VAP occurrence; (4) length of mechanical ventilation; (5) length of Intensive Care Unit stay and mortality; (6) volume of evacuated subglottic secretions.Sixty patients were randomized to be intubated with the AG endotracheal-tube (ETT) and connected to the AG 100 system allowing Pcuff adjustment and SS aspiration; or with an ETT combined with SS drainage and Pcuff controlled manually.ResultsNo difference in adverse events rate was identified between the groups. The use of AG system was associated with a significantly higher incidence of Pcuff determinations in the safety range (97.3% vs. 71%; p<0.01) and a trend to a greater volume of aspirated SS secretions: (192.0[64–413] ml vs. 150[50–200], p = 0.19 (total)); (57.8[20–88.7] ml vs. 50[18.7–62] ml, p = 0.11 (daily)). No inter-group difference was detected using AG system vs. controls in terms of post-extubation throat pain level (0 [0–2] vs. 0 [0–3]; p = 0.7), hoarseness (42.9% vs. 75%; p = 0.55) and tracheal mucosa oedema (16.7% vs. 10%; p = 0.65).Patients enrolled in the AG group had a trend to reduced VAP risk of ventilator-associated pneumonia(VAP) (14.8% vs. 40%; p = 0.06), which were more frequently monomicrobial (25% vs. 70%; p = 0.03).No statistically significant difference was observed in duration of mechanical ventilation, ICU stay, and mortality.ConclusionsThe use AG 100 system and AG tube in critically ill intubated patients is safe and effective in Pcuff control and SS drainage. Its protective role against VAP needs to be confirmed in a larger randomized trial.Trial registrationClinicalTrials.gov NCT01550978. Date of registration: February 21, 2012.

Prevention of ventilator-associated pneumonia.

Ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) is an iatrogenic disease. Here we appraise recent advancements in the development and testing of strategies to prevent VAP. We also provide recommendations on the most promising interventions that should be applied. In the last year, preventive bundles have consistently let to a reduction of VAP. A few trials on endotracheal tubes (ETTs) with novel cuffs failed to translate positive bench findings into clinical settings. In addition, meta-analyses confirmed the primary role of subglottic secretion aspiration in VAP prevention. A relatively new ETT, with an innovative cuff design, has been tested in clinical trials confirming potential value. Meta-analyses confirmed reduction of VAP with the use of chlorhexidine for oropharyngeal decontamination. However, prophylactic inhaled or oral antibiotics are ineffective. Finally, there is growing interest in orally ingested probiotics to prevent VAP. The results of ongoing studies on probiotics are much-awaited. In conclusion, in the past year, new evidence elucidated limitations of new ETT cuffs in the prevention of VAP; whereas, subglottic secretion aspiration proved consistent benefits. Modulation of oropharyngeal colonization with chlorhexidine decreases risks of VAP and should be widely implemented. Finally, preventive measures with proven preventive value should be grouped into bundles.

Endotracheal tubes and fluid aspiration: an in vitro evaluation of new cuff technologies

BackgroundAspiration of subglottic secretions past the endotracheal tube (ETT) cuff is a prerequisite for developing ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP). Subglottic secretion drainage (SSD) ETTs reduce aspiration of subglottic secretions and have demonstrated lower VAP rates. We compared the performance of seven SSD ETTs against a non-SSD ETT in preventing aspiration below inflated cuffs.MethodsETTs were positioned vertically in 2 cm diameter cylinders. Four ml of a standard microbial suspension was added above inflated cuffs. After 1 h, aspiration was measured and ETTs demonstrating no leakage were subjected to rotational movement and evaluation over 24 h. Collected aspirated fluid was used to inoculate agar media and incubated aerobically at 37 °C for 24 h. The aspiration rate, volume and number of microorganisms that leaked past the cuff was measured. Experiments were repeated (×10) for each type of ETT, with new ETTs used for each repeat. Best performing ETTs were then tested in five different cylinder diameters (1.6, 1.8, 2.0, 2.2 and 2.4 cm). Experiments were repeated as above using sterile water. Volume and time taken for aspiration past the cuff was measured. Experiments were repeated (×10) for each type of ETT. Results were analysed using non-parametric tests for repeated measures.ResultsThe PneuX ETT prevented aspiration past the cuff in all experiments. All other ETTs allowed aspiration, with considerable variability in performance. The PneuX ETT was statistically superior in reducing aspiration compared to the SealGuard (p < 0.009), KimVent (p < 0.002), TaperGuard (p < 0.004), Lanz (p < 0.001), ISIS (p < 0.001), SACETT (p < 0.001) and Soft Seal (p < 0.001) ETTs. Of the 4 ETTs tested in differing cylinder sizes, the PneuX significantly reduced aspiration across the range of diameters compared to the SealGuard (p < 0.0001), TaperGuard (p < 0.0001) and KimVent (p < 0.0001) ETTs.ConclusionsETTs showed substantial variation in fluid aspiration, relating to cuff material and design. Variability in performance was likely due to the random manner in which involutional folds form in the inflated ETT cuff. The PneuX ETT was the only ETT able to consistently prevent aspiration past the cuff in all experiments.

The effect of oral care on the prevention of ventilator associated pneumonia in patients with severe traumatic brain injury by aspiration of subglottic secretion combined with 2% acetic acid chloride solution

Objective To explore the effect of oral care on the prevention of ventilator associated pneumonia in patients with severe traumatic brain injury by aspiration of subglottic secretion combined with 2% acetic acid chloride solution. Methods A total of 100 cases of ICU patients with mechanical ventilation for longer than 48 hours were divided into group B and group C using a random number table method according to tracheotomy mechanical ventilation time sequence number from January 2014 to June 2015. Another 50 ICU patients in group A (as the case for retrospective analysis, from April to November, 2013) were treated by routine tracheal suction, normal saline cotton for oral care, group B were treated with aspiration of subglottic secretion, normal saline cotton for oral care, group C were treated with aspiration of subglottic secretion combined with 2% acetic acid chloride solution for oral cleaning. And then VAP occurrence rate, plaque index, plaque clearance were evaluated. Results The incidence rates of early onset VAP in three groups were 14% (7/50), 8% (4/50), 4% (2/50), and incidence rates of late onset VAP were 22% (11/50),12% (6/50), 8% (4/50) respectively, the differences were significant (χ2=3.65, 3.88, P <0.01). The plaque index and plaque clearance rates of the three groups on the third day were 2.14± 0.35, (40.12±13.11)%, 2.10±0.33, (39.17± 14.21)%, 1.03±0.24, (60.12±15.07 )%(F =12.21, χ2 =3.82, P < 0.01); while on the 7th day, they were 1.76±0.47, (41.12±13.34)%, 1.80±0.32, (39.37±12.21)%, 0.99±0.15, (60.33±14.25)% (F=13.14, χ2=4.20, P <0.01). Conclusions The incidence rate of VAP can be decreased by the combination of aspiration of subglottic secretion and oral cleaning with 2% acetic acid chloride solution. Key words: Pneumonia, ventilator-associated; Aspiration of subglottic secretion; Oral care; Severe craniocerebral injury; 2% acetic acid chloride solution

Efficacy of Hi-Lo Evac Endotracheal Tube in Prevention of Ventilator-Associated Pneumonia in Mechanically Ventilated Poisoned Patients.

Background. Ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) is the most common health care-associated infection. To prevent this complication, aspiration of subglottic secretions using Hi-Lo Evac endotracheal tube (Evac ETT) is a recommended intervention. However, there are some reports on Evac ETT dysfunction. We aimed to compare the incidence of VAP (per ventilated patients) in severely ill poisoned patients who were intubated using Evac ETT versus conventional endotracheal tubes (C-ETT) in our toxicology ICU. Materials and Methods. In this clinical randomized trial, 91 eligible patients with an expected duration of mechanical ventilation of more than 48 hours were recruited and randomly assigned into two groups: (1) subglottic secretion drainage (SSD) group who were intubated by Evac ETT (n = 43) and (2) control group who were intubated by C-ETT (n = 48). Results. Of the 91 eligible patients, 56 (61.5%) were male. VAP was detected in 24 of 43 (55.8%) patients in the case group and 23 of 48 (47.9%) patients in the control group (P = 0.45). The most frequently isolated microorganisms were S. aureus (54.10%) and Acinetobacter spp. (19.68%). The incidence of VAP and ICU length of stay were not significantly different between the two groups, but duration of intubation was statistically different and was longer in the SSD group. Mortality rate was less in SSD group but without a significant difference (P = 0.68). Conclusion. The SSD procedure was performed intermittently with one-hour intervals using 10 mL syringe. Subglottic secretion drainage does not significantly reduce the incidence of VAP in patients receiving MV. This strategy appears to be ineffective in preventing VAP among ICU patients.

Randomized Pilot Trial of Two Modified Endotracheal Tubes To Prevent Ventilator-associated Pneumonia

Ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) is a prevalent and costly nosocomial infection related to instrumentation of the airway with an endotracheal tube (ETT), enabling microaspiration of contaminated secretions. Modification of the ETT design to reduce microaspiration and/or biofilm formation may play an important role in VAP prevention. However, there is insufficient evidence to provide strong recommendations regarding the use of modified ETT and unaddressed safety concerns. We performed a pilot randomized controlled trial comparing two modified ETTs designed specifically to prevent VAP, with the standard ETT, to test the feasibility of and inform planning for a large, pivotal, randomized trial. This study was conducted with institutional review board approval under exception from informed consent. We randomized in a blinded fashion patients undergoing emergency endotracheal intubation both out of and in hospital to receive one of three different ETT types: (1) a polyurethane-cuffed tube (PUC-ETT), (2) a polyurethane-cuffed tube equipped with a port for continuous aspiration of subglottic secretions (PUC-CASS-ETT), or a (3) standard polyvinylchloride-cuffed tube (PVC-ETT). In addition to investigating feasibility and safety, the study coprimary end points were tracheal bacterial colonization reaching a cfu count >10(6) cfu per milliliter and the incidence of invasively diagnosed VAP. A total of 102 subjects were randomized and met the eligibility criteria. Randomization procedures performed well and integrity of blinding at randomization was maintained. The majority of intubations occurred in the hospital setting (n = 77), and the remainder occurred out of hospital (n = 25). Compared with the PVC-ETT, there were no significant differences in tracheal colonization for PUC-ETT (odds ratio [OR], 0.98; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.31-3.09) or for PUC-CASS-ETT (OR, 1.26; 95% CI, 0.42-3.76). There were no differences in the risk of invasively diagnosed VAP (OR, 1.14; 95% CI, 0.21-6.08 for PUC-ETT; OR, 1.47; 95% CI, 0.30-7.10 for PUC-CASS-ETT), or of clinically diagnosed VAP by either clinical signs or chest radiograph criteria. We did not observe unexpected or serious adverse events related to the devices. A randomized trial of ETTs inserted during emergency intubation for the prevention of VAP is feasible and did not appear to carry heightened safety concerns. These preliminary data did not suggest different patterns of tracheal colonization or occurrence of VAP among the study groups. Clinical trial registered with www.clinicaltrials.gov (NCT01744483).

Meta analysis of continuous aspiration of subglottic secretions in preventing ventilator-associated pneumonia

Objective To assess the effectiveness of continuous aspiration of subglottic secretions (CASS)in preventing ventilator-associated pneumonia.Methods The relevant randomized controlled trials were searched in the Cochrane Library,Pubmed,CNKI,VIP and Wanfang databases.The experimental group received CASS and the control group did not(NASS group).Two reviewers selected studies according to the inclusion and exclusion criteria,the quality of studies was critically appraised and data were extracted by two reviewers independently.Meta-analysis was conducted by using RevMan 5.2.Results Sixteen randomized controlled trials met the inclusion criteria and enrolled 2 576 patients.According to the meta analysis,compared with NASS,CASS reduced the incidence of ventilator-associated pneumonia,shortened the length of stay in the intensive care unit and the duration of mechanical ventilation.There was no effect on hospital mortality.Conclusions Continuous aspiration of subglottic secretions appears effective in preventing ventilator-associated pneumonia,decreasing the duration of intensive care unit length of stay and mechanical ventilation among critically ill patients with mechanical ventilation. Key words: Continuous aspiration of subglottic secretions; Ventilator-associated pneumonia; Meta-analysis

Impact of subglottic suctioning on the incidence of pneumonia after cardiac surgery: a retrospective observational study.

Continuous aspiration of subglottic secretions (CASS) has been found to decrease the incidence of pneumonia in the general intensive care unit (ICU) population, but its benefit in cardiac surgery patients is unclear. The present study aimed to determine whether the routine use of CASS in cardiac surgical patients was associated with decreased pneumonia. A retrospective, single-center observational study. The study was conducted in a quaternary care cardiac surgery center and university research hospital. 4,880 patients undergoing cardiac surgery were studied. The control group (no CASS) received a standard endotracheal tube and underwent surgery between April 1, 2007 and March 31, 2009. The intervention group (CASS) received a subglottic suctioning endotracheal tube and underwent surgery between June 1, 2009 and May 31, 2011. The primary outcome was the development of pneumonia, and the secondary outcomes were 30-day in-hospital mortality, ventilation time, need for tracheostomy, ICU length of stay (LOS), and hospital LOS. The unadjusted incidence of pneumonia was 1.9% in the CASS group and 5.6% in the control group (p<0.0001). The CASS group also had lower 30-day in-hospital mortality (2.1% v 3.3%; p = 0.007), median ventilation time (8.42 v 7.3 hours; p<0.0001), and shorter median ICU LOS (1.77 v 1.17 days; p<0.0004) compared with the control group. Tracheostomy rates and median hospital LOS did not differ between groups. After adjusting using multivariable modeling, CASS remained an independent risk predictor for pneumonia (odds ratio [OR] 0.342, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.239-0.490) and ICU LOS (OR 0.817, 95% CI 0.718-0.931). The universal implementation of CASS in a quaternary care cardiac surgical population was associated with a decreased incidence of pneumonia.

Association among duration of mechanical ventilation, cuff material of endotracheal tube, and postoperative nosocomial pneumonia in cardiac surgical patients: A prospective study

Postoperative pulmonary complications are a burden for high-risk surgical patients with a risk of aspiration of subglottic secretions along the polyvinyl chloride cuff. The introduction of a polyurethane cuff diminishes secretion leakage with a decreased rate of pneumonia. The aim of the current analysis was to determine the time at which a polyurethane cuffed endotracheal tube might be advantageous to prevent aspiration in a setting of high-risk surgical patients. The present investigation is based on published data obtained in postoperative cardiac surgical patients undergoing operation from 2006 to 2007. Cuff pressure was kept between 20 and 26 cmH2O intraoperatively and in the intensive care unit. The current post hoc analysis determines (1) the discriminatory cutoff value of intubation duration for predicting postoperative pneumonia and (2) the potential factors associated with prolonged intubation. Forty-three patients (32%) were diagnosed with early postoperative pneumonia. Receiver operating characteristics analysis revealed a cutoff value of 16.6 hours for the duration of mechanical ventilation to discriminate patients with postoperative pneumonia. A stepwise binary logistic regression analysis revealed that a polyvinyl chloride cuff was associated with a 10-fold increased risk for prolonged intubation. The current analyses provide evidence that among cardiac surgical patients, mechanical ventilation more than 16.6 hours is associated with an increased likelihood of postoperative pneumonia.