Hydrofibers

Hydrofibers are fibers composed of highly hydrophilic polymers that rapidly absorb water and other aqueous fluids, swelling as they take up moisture. In medical applications, the term is most often associated with wound care dressings that use a hydrofibrous matrix, typically based on crosslinked polysaccharides such as sodium carboxymethylcellulose. The fiber network is designed to be highly absorbent while remaining soft and conformable to wound surfaces.

When exposed to wound exudate, hydrofiber fibers absorb fluid and form a cohesive gel. This gel helps maintain a moist wound environment, supports autolytic debridement, and can trap bacteria or debris within the gel mass. The gel also helps minimize leakage and maceration of surrounding skin and facilitates dressing removal without damaging the healing tissue. Some hydrofiber dressings are formulated with antimicrobial agents, such as silver, to address infection risk.

Applications are primarily in wound care, particularly for moderate to heavily exuding wounds, including surgical sites, burns, and chronic ulcers. They are chosen for their absorbent capacity, gel-forming behavior, and ability to stay in place over the wound bed. Clinicians consider factors such as wound type, exudate level, presence of necrotic tissue, and infection status when selecting hydrofiber dressings.

Advantages commonly cited include high absorption, gel stabilization of fluid, reduced frequency of dressing changes, and maintained moisture at the wound surface. Limitations include limited use on very dry wounds, potential adherence to the wound bed if moisture is insufficient, and cost considerations. Hydrofibers are part of a broader class of advanced wound dressings and are often used alongside other moisture-retaining materials.