Abstract: A surgical laparotomy pad having uniquely useful properties comprises a hydrophilic polyurethane sponge in which the sponge pores have a surfactant coating to accelerate absorption of body fluids into the pores at medically desirable rates, the fluids being retained therein by capillarity to affect removal of the fluids from the body. The sponge is flexible, and substantially free from lint, toxicity, and abrasiveness, making it particularly suitable for use in contact with raw living tissue to absorb blood or fluids, and retain tissues temporarily in position during surgical procedures.