Hydrogels are able to donate moisture to dehydrated tissue and absorb some moisture from an exudating wound. They are available in two forms, amorphous hydrogels and sheet hydrogels.
Amorphous hydrogels are soft formless gels that become less viscous as they absorb fluid.
Sheet hydrogels are firm sheets of gel that swell when fluid is absorbed but maintain their integrity. Indications Amorphous hydrogels are particularly useful for rehydrating sloughy or necrotic tissue and enhancing autolytic debridement. Hydrogels in general have a soothing effect on tissues and can significantly reduce pain in a wound. Sheet hydrogels are also useful in the treatment and prevention of pressure wounds, as they are able to absorb significant amounts of friction and shear. Hydrogels can remain in a wound for up to 3 days, after which they should be removed from the wound by irrigation and replaced as necessary.