Exudate plays a key role in wound healing. However, exudate can delay healing when in the wrong amount, in the wrong place, or of the wrong composition. Effective assessment and management of exudate is therefore key to ensuring timely wound healing without complications.

Since the World Union of Wound Healing Societies (WUWHS) last issued guidance on exudate management in 2007, understanding of exudate and healing has moved on. In addition, some new treatments have become available and the roles of others have developed.

Recognition for the need for more up-to-date guidance resulted in this consensus document. The process of developing the document started with a meeting of an international group of experts in June 2018 and was followed by extensive review by the Core Expert Working Group and a Review Panel.

​This new consensus document provides clear, practical guidance that will help clinicians to effectively assess and manage exudate to prevent exudate-related complications and to improve outcomes for patients.