Abstract: A pressure applicator for thoracic wounds is disclosed. The device includes a strap for encircling a patient's thorax. The strap has a pair of opposing ends. A cup element is attachable to the strap and has a rim for engaging the paatients's thorax around the wound. The strap is selectively secured in place about the thorax to urge the cup element against the thorax with sufficient pressure to at least partially seal the wound.