Airway and Respiratory Devices in the Prevention of Ventilator-Associated Pneumonia

Ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) is the most common ICU-acquired infection among patients under mechanical ventilation (MV). It may occur in up to 50% of mechanically ventilated patients and is associated with an increased duration of MV, antibiotic consumption, increased morbidity, and mortality. VAP prevention is a multifaceted priority of the intensive care team. The use of specialized artificial airways and other devices can have an impact on the prevention of VAP. However, these devices can also have adverse effects, and aspects of their efficacy in the prevention of VAP are still a matter of debate. This article provides a narrative review of how different airway and respiratory devices may help to reduce the incidence of VAP.

Automated summary

Ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) is a common ICU-acquired infection in mechanically ventilated patients. It has various negative impacts such as prolonged duration of mechanical ventilation, increased antibiotic consumption, morbidity, and mortality. Preventing VAP is a priority for the intensive care team, and the use of specialized airways and devices can help reduce its incidence, although their effectiveness is still debated.