• • Anti-swelling hydrogels achieve equilibrium swelling ratios below 150%, a critical threshold for maintaining dimensional stability and preventing mechanical property degradation in physiological environments, essential for long-term implants and wound dressings.
• • Preparation strategies include hydrophobic interactions, increased cross-linking density, and nanocomposite structures, which collectively reduce water uptake and enhance structural integrity, as evidenced by studies on alginate-based and polyelectrolyte complex hydrogels.
• • Specific formulations, such as UV cross-linked injectable dihydrocaffeic acid grafted chitosan hydrogels, demonstrate non-swelling behavior and promote wound healing, indicating the clinical relevance of anti-swelling properties.
• • Anti-swelling hydrogels with tissue-matchable mechanical properties and ultralow swelling are developed for wet wound closure and tissue adhesion, with burst pressure tolerance exceeding 200 mmHg, meeting surgical requirements for hemostasis and sealing.