Current models to simulate chronic P. aeruginosa infection of the airways of cystic fibrosis patients are only realistic to a limited extent. A realistic model could be developed in a rather simple manner by treating sputum from P. aeruginosa infected patients by different antibacterial strategies, in combination with different mucolytic methods. The eradication success of the different strategies can then be compared by means of culture and quantitative PCR, whereby the latter enables the quantitation of the fastidious biofilm associated cells. This model is not only offers the most realistic simulation currently achievable, it also makes it possible to evaluate individualized treatments, because the infection status of every patient is different.