Role of suction above the cuff endotracheal tube in prevention of ventilator associated pneumonia: A comparative study

Background: Ventilator associated pneumonia is associated with use of unsterile methods of intubation and contamination of lungs by oropharyngeal secretions accumulated around the cuff. We wanted to compare efficacy of SACETT in reduction of VAP in our ICU. Methods: Out of total 82 patients enrolled, 70 patients requiring mechanical ventilation for ≥48 hours were divided into two equal groups and randomized to get intubated with SACETT (group S) or ETT (group E). The rest of the preventive measures against VAP, and the mode of ventilation were similar between two groups. Results: The incidence of VAP was 25.71% in group E and 5.71% in group S; (P = 0.0457). The duration of intubation, mechanical ventilation and Intensive Care Unit stay were not significantly different between the two groups. (p>0.05) Conclusions: In this study of our institute there was a significant reduction in incidence of VAP with use of SACETT. The rest of the outcomes were similar with use of either type of endotracheal tube in the patients.