Probiotic prophylaxis of ventilator-associated pneumonia: a blinded, randomized, controlled trial.

ABSTRACT:

Rationale

Enteral administration of probiotics may modify the gastrointestinal environment in a manner that preferentially favors the growth of minimally virulent species. It is unknown whether probiotic modification of the upper aerodigestive flora can reduce nosocomial infections.

Objectives

To determine whether oropharyngeal and gastric administration of Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG can reduce the incidence of ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP).

Methods

We performed a prospective, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of 146 mechanically ventilated patients at high risk of developing VAP. Patients were randomly assigned to receive enteral probiotics (n = 68) or an inert inulin-based placebo (n = 70) twice a day in addition to routine care.

Measurem

SUBMITTER: Morrow LE 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC2970846 | biostudies-literature | 2010 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature