The primary purpose of the trial is to compare the efficacy and safety of two measures which claim to prevent early-onset ventilator-associated pneumonia.

Background: In a previous double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized trial we found that a 3-day-course of ceftriaxone significantly reduced the incidence of early-onset ventilator-associated pneumonia (EOP). Continuous aspiration of secretions accumulating in the subglottic space above the cuff of the endotracheal tube has also been shown to prevent EOP.

Objective: To compare the effect of both preventive measures on the incidence of EOP.

Design: Randomized, multicenter.

Setting: Three general intensive care units at university hospitals in Spain. Patients: Patients without signs of infection and no concomitant systemic antibiotics were included if expected to require endotracheal intubation exceeding 2 days.

Intervention: All patients were intubated with an endotracheal tube equipped with a port for aspiration of subglottic secretions and subsequently randomized to receive a three day course of 2 gram/day iv ceftriaxone without aspiration of subglottic secretions or continuous aspiration of subglottic secretions.

Measurements: All ICU-acquired infections, antibiotic therapy, colonization and infection with 3rd-generation cephalosporin-resistant microorganisms, duration of intubation and ICU-stay and-mortality.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Endotracheal intubation with endotracheal tube equipped with port for aspirations of subglottic contents and expected to exceed 48 hors.
• Absence of infection.
• 18 years or older.
• Informed Consent.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Endotracheal intubation prior to admission to hospital.
• Allergic to beta-lactam antibiotics.
• Formal indication for systemic antibiotic therapy.