A unitary wound closure device adapted to permit a wound on a patient to be viewed
while the closure device is secured to the patient. The device comprises a body
having sufficient flexibility for it to be folded against itself. The body includes
first and second surfaces facing away from one another, a securing portion having
a length and width sufficient to secure facing edges of the wound in close juxtaposition
with one another and viewing portion having a length and width sufficient to circumscribe
the wound of the patient. A first quantity of adhesive-substance is disposed on
the first surface of the body to adhere the securing portion of the body to the
patient. A second quantity of adhesive substance is disposed on the second surface
of the body to adhere the viewing portion to the patient and the securing portion
when the viewing portion is folded over and onto the protecting portion and the
patient. The wound closure device may also include a hinge member joining the securing
portion and the viewing portion.
