Wearable devices are playing an increasingly important role in various fields, particularly in healthcare. These devices not only detect vital signs but also quantify health indicators and thus play a crucial role in disease prevention. The demand for flexible wearable devices continues to rise. In this context, conductive hydrogels (CHs) have emerged as a novel flexible material that has garnered significant attention from researchers due to its excellent flexibility and biocompatibility. This article will focus on the applications and recent advancements of conductive hydrogels in the medical field, particularly in self-powered devices. Based on their functions, the applications can be categorized into two main areas: medical detection and treatment. In the realm of medical detection, conductive hydrogels can monitor physiological signals in real-time, such as electrocardiograms (ECG), electromyograms (EMG), and skin temperature. Researchers have successfully combined conductive hydrogels with flexible electrodes to achieve highly sensitive signal acquisition. This technological advancement enables long-term monitoring, greatly enhancing patient comfort and convenience. In terms of treatment, conductive hydrogels are applied in electrical stimulation therapies and drug delivery systems. They not only effectively conduct electricity but also can interact with drugs to achieve precise therapeutic effects. Despite their promise, challenges remain, including long-term stability, material integration, and scaling up manufacturing processes. Overall, the future of conductive hydrogels in wearable devices is promising, poised to advance personalized medicine and smart health management.
