a method for treating wounds , comprising providing a dry powder mixture , which when partially hydrated , forms a gel having an osmotic pressure sufficient to achieve and maintain antiseptic conditions in hydrated portions of the gel , the gelled portion comprising a biocompatible polymer , the dry powder being readily wettable by wound secretions ; and applying the dry powder to a wound having wound secretions in sufficient excess to produce a self - adherent gel cake having a dry powder surface . the administration may be repeated by administration of the dry powder while wound healing progresses .