Hydrogels and their potential uses in burn wound management.

Hydrogels are recognized as the standard treatment for necrotic or sloughy wounds. Autolytic debridement of devitalized tissue is essential to promote wound healing; this depends on the whole area being kept moist so that natural enzymatic reactions can take place. Hydrogels are considered to be gentle debriders, promoting rehydration of non-viable tissues. Hydrosorb and Hydrosorb Comfort are hydrocellular gel dressings that are made from 60% water and are therefore suitable for keeping granulation tissue and young epithelium moist. Additionally, Hydrosorb provides a cushioning effect for wound protection, and has a soothing and cooling effect on superficial burns. For some patients with burns, such as the elderly, Hydrosorb can be applied to speed up the process of debridement where surgery is not an option; a case study is given to show the effective healing process.