Evidence on the best way to perform oral hygiene with chlorhexidine in critically ill patients: systematic review and meta-analysis

Results 10 primary studies were grouped in 4 groups (G1-4) based in criteria of concentration of CHX. G1 (10 primary studies with different concentrations of CHX) studies were homogeneous (Cochrane Q het p=0.35) and the common RR was significative (p<0.001 and CI=95%); G2 (5 primary studies CHX 0.12%) showed homogeneity (Cochrane Q het p=0.67) and the use of CHX represented protection (p<0.05); The G3 (3 primary studies CHX 0.2%) there was heterogeneity between studies (p=0.037) and CHX not represent a protective factor (p>0.05), G4 (2 primary studies CHX 2%) homogeneous studies (Cochran Q het p=0.62) and use of CHX was significant (p=0.021<0.05). Conclusion If seems no doubt about the protective effect of oral hygiene with CHX in preventing pneumonia in critically ill patients, there is no evidence for adoption of protocols to guide the CHX concentration, as well as duration, frequency and application technique.