Protective sealing compositions in the form of molded rings or sheets for application around surgical fluid drainage openings, which compositions comprise a gelled mixture of a water-absorbing particulate hydrocolloid gum (e.g. Karayagum) and a non-toxic liquid polyhydroxy alcohol (e.g. glycerin or propylene glycol) are provided with increased resistance to the drained fluid (viz. urine or intestinal fluids) by incorporating a small amount of colloidal silica. Fumed silica is preferred. By limiting the amount of silica added appreciable reductions in the wet tack and/or dry tack of the composition can be avoided.
