Hydrogels for wound healing: a revolution in wound care
A hydrogel is a gel-like material consisting primarily of water and held together by a network of special molecules, similar to gelatin. It feels soft and flexible, like gel, but with a higher water content.
Hydrogels have the unique property of being able to absorb and retain large amounts of water, sometimes up to a thousand times their own weight.
In the medical world, hydrogels are often used in wound dressings. When a hydrogel dressing is applied to a wound, it absorbs moisture from the wound and creates a moist environment around it.
This promotes faster healing by supporting the growth of new cells and tissues and accelerating the healing process. Additionally, the moist environment prevents scab formation, reducing the risk of scarring and improving patient comfort.
Hydrogel for burns
Hydrogels have been used for decades as an effective treatment for burns. When applied to a burn, a hydrogel creates a moist environment around the wound, which can help soothe the affected area and promote healing.
Hydrogels can also help reduce the pain of burns by providing cooling and protecting the wound from further damage. They can help keep the burn area clean and free from infection by absorbing excess moisture and debris from the wound.
Hydrogels can be used on third-degree burns, but it is important to note that the treatment of severe burns such as third-degree burns should be done under medical supervision.
Hydrogel on open wounds
Hydrogels can be used on an open wound. In fact, hydrogel is often used in the treatment of open wounds because it can provide a moist environment that promotes wound healing and helps prevent infection.
Hydrogel helps keep the wound moist, which is important for promoting the growth of new tissue and preventing the wound from drying out. It can also help soften the wound and reduce pain and inflammation. Additionally, hydrogels can form a barrier that helps protect the wound from further damage and contamination.
It is important to note that the use of hydrogels on open wounds should be done under the guidance of a physician.
Detectaplast products with hydrogel
We offer various products based on hydrogel.
There are our plasters with a hydrogel cushion, for smaller wounds. Our hydrogel plaster is visually and metal detectable, making it particularly suitable for the food industry.
But we also have an extensive Burncare range, with hydrogel burn gel as well as various sizes of hydrogel compresses - suitable for hands, arms, legs, and face. Our Burncare range is used for burns where our hydrogel plaster is no longer sufficient.
In the case of larger burns, it is important to consult a physician.
For more information on burn treatment, we'd like to refer you to our article on burns.
When should Hydrogel not be used?
Infected wounds: Hydrogels may not be suitable for infected wounds, as they can provide a moist environment that promotes bacterial growth and slows healing.
Deep wounds: Hydrogels may not be suitable for wounds deeper than the thickness of the hydrogel dressing, as they may not provide adequate support for proper wound healing.
Heavy exudate*: Hydrogels may not be suitable for wounds with a lot of exudate, as they may quickly become saturated and lose their effectiveness.
Allergy or sensitivity to components: Some patients may be allergic or sensitive to components of hydrogels, such as glycerin or propylene glycol.
It is always important to consult a physician for advice on the most appropriate wound dressing for a specific wound.
*Exudate is the fluid produced by body tissues in response to injury or infection. In the context of wound care, exudate refers to the fluid produced by the wound itself.