Selective Digestive Decontamination: Another Nail in the Coffin?

Abstract

Abstract from Literature

Synopsis: Selective digestive decontamination (SDD) has been proposed as an effective measure for the prevention of nosocomial pneumonia. In this prospective, randomized, placebo-controlled trial, SDD reduced airway colonization with gram-negative bacteria but had no discernible effect on mortality, length of stay, or even pneumonia, as assessed by quantitative culture.

Source: Ferrer M et al. Utility of selective decontamination in mechanically ventilated patients. Ann Intern Med 1994;120:389–95.