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SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549



FORM 10-K
(Mark One)
[X] Annual Report pursuant to section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange
Act of 1934 for the fiscal year ended December 31, 1997 or

[ ] Transition report pursuant to section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities
Exchange Act of 1934 for the transition period from ________ to ____________



Commission file number 0-28748





Closure Medical Corporation
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)




Delaware 56-1959623
(State or other jurisdiction of (I.R.S. Employer
incorporation or organization) Identification No.)


5250 Greens Dairy Road, Raleigh, North Carolina
(Address of principal executive offices)



27616
(Zip Code)


Registrant's telephone number, including area code: (919) 876-7800


Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:





Title of each class Name of each exchange on which registered
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None None


Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act:


Common Stock, par value $.01 per share
(Title of class)




Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports
required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of
1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the
registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such
filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes [X] No [ ]

As of March 18, 1998, the aggregate market value of the Common Stock held by
non-affiliates of the registrant was $131,721,000. Such aggregate market value
was computed by reference to the closing sale price of the Common Stock as
reported on the Nasdaq National Market of The Nasdaq Stock Market on such date.
For purposes of making this calculation only, the registrant has defined
affiliates as including all directors and beneficial owners of more than five
percent of the Common Stock of the Company.

As of March 18, 1998, there were 13,255,680 shares of the registrant's Common
Stock outstanding.

Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405
of Regulation S-K is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the
best of registrant's knowledge, in the definitive proxy statement incorporated
by reference in Part III of this Annual Report on Form 10-K or any amendment to
this Annual Report on Form 10-K. [ ]

The following documents are incorporated by reference into Part III, Items 10,
11, 12 and 13 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K: the registrant's definitive
proxy materials for its 1998 Annual Meeting of Stockholders.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS






PART I ............................................................................... 3
ITEM 1. BUSINESS .................................................................. 3
ITEM 2. PROPERTIES ................................................................ 16
ITEM 3. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS ......................................................... 16
ITEM 4. SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO A VOTE OF SECURITY HOLDERS ....................... 16
PART II .............................................................................. 17
ITEM 5. MARKET FOR REGISTRANT'S COMMON EQUITY AND RELATED STOCKHOLDER
MATTERS ...................................................................... 17
ITEM 6. SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA ................................................... 18
ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS
OF OPERATIONS ................................................................ 19
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS ...................................................... 22
ITEM 9. CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND
FINANCIAL DISCLOSURES ........................................................ 22
PART III ............................................................................. 23
ITEM 10. DIRECTORS AND EXECUTIVE OFFICERS OF THE REGISTRANT ....................... 23
ITEM 11. EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION ................................................... 23
ITEM 12. SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT ........... 23
ITEM 13. CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS ........................... 23
PART IV .............................................................................. 24
ITEM 14. EXHIBITS, FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES, AND REPORTS ON FORM 8-K ......... 24


Unless the context indicates otherwise, the terms "Closure" and "Company"
refer to Closure Medical Corporation. References in this Annual Report on Form
10-K ("Annual Report") to Closure or the Company also include, unless the
context indicates otherwise, Closure's predecessor, Tri-Point Medical L.P. (the
"Partnership"). Effective January 13, 1997, the Company changed its name from
Tri-Point Medical Corporation to Closure Medical Corporation.

"Octyldent" and "Nexaband" are federally registered trademarks of the
Company. "Nexacryl" is a trademark of the Company. "DERMABOND" is a trademark
of Ethicon, Inc., the Company's marketing partner for the product. All other
trade names and trademarks appearing in this Annual Report are the property of
their respective holders. Prior to the selection of the trademark "DERMABOND"
by Ethicon, Inc., DERMABOND was referred to as TraumaSealTM by the Company.


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PART I

ITEM 1. Business.

Forward-Looking Statements

In this Annual Report on Form 10-K or the Exhibits hereto, the statements
contained or incorporated by reference herein that are not historical facts or
statements of current conditions are forward-looking statements. Such forward-
looking statements may be identified by, among other things, the use of
forward-looking terminology such as "believes," "expects," "forecasts,"
"estimates," "plans," "continues," "may," "will," "should," "anticipates" or
"intends" or the negative thereof or other variations thereon or comparable
terminology, or by discussions of strategy or intentions. These forward-looking
statements, such as statements regarding present or anticipated scientific
progress, development of potential products, future revenues, capital
expenditures and research and development expenditures, future financings and
collaborations, management, manufacturing development and capabilities, and
other statements regarding matters that are not historical facts, involve
predictions. The Company's actual results, performance or achievements could
differ materially from the results expressed in, or implied by, these
forward-looking statements. Potential risks and uncertainties that could affect
the Company's actual results, performance or achievements include, but are not
limited to, the "Risk Factors" set forth below. Given these uncertainties,
current or prospective investors are cautioned not to place undue reliance on
any such forward-looking statements. Furthermore, the Company disclaims any
obligation or intent to update any such factors or forward-looking statements
to reflect future events or developments.


Risk Factors

In addition to the other information in this Annual Report on Form 10-K,
the following risk factors should be carefully considered.

Continuing Operating Losses. The Company has incurred net losses in each
year since its inception, including net losses of approximately $6.8 million
for the year ended December 31, 1997. These losses have resulted primarily from
expenses associated with the Company's research and development activities,
including preclinical and clinical trials and general and administrative
expenses. The Company anticipates that its recurring operating expenses will
increase for the next several years, as it expects its research and development
and selling and administrative expenses to increase in order to develop new
products, manufacture in commercial quantities and fund additional clinical
trials. The Company expects to incur a loss in 1998 and may incur losses in
subsequent years, although the amount of future net losses and time required by
the Company to reach profitability are highly uncertain. The Company's ability
to generate significant revenue and become profitable is dependent in large
part on its success in obtaining regulatory approvals or clearances for its
products, commercializing the Company's lead product, DERMABOND, expanding its
manufacturing capacity, developing and marketing new products and entering into
additional marketing agreements where appropriate and the ability of its
marketing partners to commercialize successfully products incorporating the
Company's technologies. There can be no assurance that the Company will
generate significant revenue or become profitable on a sustained basis, if at
all. See "Item 7 -- Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition
and Results of Operations."

Early Commercialization; Dependence on New Products and Technologies;
Uncertainty of Market Acceptance. The Company is in the early stage of product
commercialization and has derived only limited revenue from sales of certain
products to its marketing partners. The Company submitted a premarket approval
application ("PMA") to market DERMABOND in the United States and the General
and Plastic Surgery Devices Panel, an advisory committee of the U.S. Food and
Drug Administration (the "FDA"), unanimously recommended approval with
conditions of the Company's PMA for DERMABOND in January 1998. The Company has
several additional potential products in development. The Company believes that
its long-term viability and growth will depend in large part on receiving
regulatory clearances or approvals for and the successful commercialization of
DERMABOND and other new products resulting from its research and development
activities. The Company presently is pursuing product opportunities that will
require extensive additional capital investment, research, development,
clinical testing and regulatory clearances or approvals prior to
commercialization. There can be no assurance that the Company's development
programs will be successfully completed or that required regulatory clearances
or approvals will be obtained on a timely basis, if at all. Moreover,
commercial applications of the Company's absorbable formulations are relatively
new and evolving. The successful development and market acceptance of the
Company's proposed products are subject to inherent developmental risks,
including ineffectiveness or lack of safety, unreliability, failure to receive
necessary regulatory clearances or approvals, high commercial cost and
preclusion or obsolescence resulting from third parties' proprietary rights or
superior or equivalent products, as well as general economic conditions
affecting purchasing patterns.


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There can be no assurance that the Company and its marketing partners will
be able to commercialize successfully or achieve market acceptance of the
Company's technologies or products, or that the Company's competitors will not
develop competing technologies that are less expensive or otherwise superior to
those of the Company. The failure to develop and market successfully new
products would have a material adverse effect on the Company's results of
operations and financial condition. See "Products" and "Manufacturing."

Uncertainty of Regulatory Approval for DERMABOND. Although the General and
Plastic Surgery Devices Panel, an FDA advisory committee, unanimously
recommended approval with conditions of the Company's PMA for DERMABOND, the
regulatory process is lengthy, expensive and uncertain. The panel recommended
two labeling conditions: a statement to remind physicians to adequately cleanse
wounds using appropriate techniques and a statement that DERMABOND is not
intended to replace sutures beneath the skin when sutures are clinically
indicated. A PMA for DERMABOND is anticipated after the Company passes an
inspection by the FDA for compliance with the Good Manufacturing Practices
("GMPs") described in the FDA's Quality System Regulation (QSR), including
validation of its manufacturing process, and receives FDA approval of labeling
and approval of the Company's color additive petition ("CAP") for use of a
color additive in DERMABOND. The FDA has advised the Company that it will have
to demonstrate adequate control of its manufacturing process for DERMABOND. The
Company is completing the validation of its manufacturing process, which it
believes will demonstrate this control. The Company's CAP for DERMABOND is
subject to independent review and approval by the FDA's Center for Food Safety
and Applied Nutrition. There can be no assurance that the Company will be able
to obtain the necessary approvals from the FDA to market and manufacture
DERMABOND in the United States for its intended use on a timely basis, if at
all. A delay in receipt of or failure to receive such approvals would have a
material adverse effect on the Company's results of operations and financial
condition. Although the Company has received authorization to display the CE
mark for DERMABOND, which allows the product to be marketed throughout the
European Union, additional authorizations may be required in other foreign
jurisdictions where DERMABOND will be marketed. A delay in receipt of or
failure to receive such approvals could have a material adverse effect on the
Company's results of operations and financial condition. See " -- Effects of
FDA and other Government Regulation" and "Government Regulations."

Limited Manufacturing Experience. The Company has limited manufacturing
capacity and has limited experience in manufacturing its products. The
Company's future success is dependent on its ability to manufacture its
products in commercial quantities, in compliance with regulatory requirements,
at an acceptable cost and with sufficient stability. The Company currently
manufactures all of its products in a 15,000 square foot facility in Raleigh,
North Carolina. The Company recently relocated its corporate offices to a new
50,000 square foot facility in Raleigh and is in the process of relocating its
manufacturing operations to the same facility. Production of commercial-scale
quantities may involve technical challenges for the Company and will require
significant scale-up expenses for additions to facilities and personnel. There
can be no assurance that the Company will be able to achieve sufficient
manufacturing capabilities to enable it to satisfy demand if DERMABOND is fully
commercialized, or to manufacture its products in a cost-effective manner or in
quantities necessary to allow the Company to achieve profitability. If the
Company is unable to expand its manufacturing capacity sufficiently to meet the
requirements for DERMABOND of Ethicon, Inc. ("Ethicon"), the Company's
marketing partner for DERMABOND, as set forth under their agreement, Ethicon
may itself then manufacture DERMABOND and only pay the Company royalties on
sales. The resulting loss of payments from Ethicon for the purchase of
DERMABOND from the Company would have a material adverse effect on the
Company's results of operations and financial condition.

In addition, the manufacture of the Company's products will be subject to
periodic inspection by regulatory authorities and certain marketing partners,
and the Company's manufacture of its products for human use is subject to
regulation and inspection from time to time by the FDA for compliance with
current GMPs, as well as equivalent requirements and inspections by state and
foreign regulatory authorities. There can be no assurance that the Company will
satisfy these requirements for DERMABOND. In addition, there can be no
assurance that the FDA or other authorities will not, during the course of an
inspection of existing or new facilities, identify what they consider to be
deficiencies in GMPs or other requirements and request, or seek, remedial
action. Failure to comply with such regulations or delay in attaining
compliance may adversely affect the Company's manufacturing activities and
could result in, among other things, FDA refusal to grant premarket approvals
or clearances for pending or future products, issuances of Warning Letters,
injunctions, civil penalties, fines, recalls or seizures of products, total or
partial suspensions of production and criminal prosecution. Additionally,
future modifications of the Company's manufacturing facilities and processes
may subject the Company to further FDA inspections and review prior to
implementation of such modifications. There can be no assurance that the
Company will be able to obtain necessary regulatory approvals or clearances on
a timely basis, if at all. Delays in receipt of or failure to receive such
approvals or clearances or the loss of previously received approvals or
clearances would have a material adverse effect on the Company's results of
operations and financial condition. See " -- Effects of FDA and Other
Government Regulation," "Marketing Partners" and "Manufacturing."


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Dependence on Marketing Partners. The Company has limited experience in
sales, marketing and distribution. Therefore, the Company's strategy for
commercialization of its nonabsorbable products has included entering into
agreements with other companies to market current and certain future products
incorporating the Company's technology. The Company derived all of its fiscal
1997 revenues from the sale of products to its marketing partners. There can be
no assurance that the Company will be able to enter into additional marketing
agreements on terms favorable to the Company, if at all, or that current or
future agreements will ultimately be beneficial to the Company. The Company may
establish a sales force to market certain future products. There can be no
assurance that the Company will be able to establish marketing, distribution
and sales capabilities or make arrangements with third parties to perform such
activities on acceptable terms, if at all.

The Company is dependent for product sales revenues for its nonabsorbable
products upon the success of the Company's marketing partners in performing
their responsibilities. The amount and timing of resources which may be devoted
to the performance of their contractual responsibilities by its marketing
partners are not within the control of the Company. There can be no assurance
that such marketing partners will perform their obligations as expected, pay
any additional option or license fees to the Company or market any products
under the marketing agreements, or that the Company will derive any revenue
from such arrangements. There can be no assurance that DERMABOND will be
launched in the manner and on the timetable expected by the Company, as such
determinations are entirely within the control of Ethicon, the Company's
marketing partner. Certain agreements also permit the marketing partners to
pursue existing or alternative technologies in preference to the Company's
technology. There can be no assurance that the interests of the Company will
continue to coincide with those of its marketing partners or that the marketing
partners will not develop independently or with third parties products which
could compete with the Company's products, or that disagreements over rights or
technology or other proprietary interests will not occur. To the extent that
the Company chooses not to or is unable to enter into future agreements, it
would experience increased capital requirements to undertake the marketing or
sale of its current and future products. There can be no assurance that the
Company will be able to market or sell its current or future products
independently in the absence of such agreements. See "Item 7 -- Management's
Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" and
"Marketing Partners."

Potential Adverse Effect of Competition and Technological Change. The
Company competes with many domestic and foreign competitors in various rapidly
evolving and technologically advanced fields in developing its technology and
products, including medical device, pharmaceutical and biopharmaceutical
companies. In the worldwide wound closure market, the Company believes that
DERMABOND will compete with the suture products of Ethicon, the world leader in
the wound closure market, and Tyco International Ltd., as well as the staple
products of Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc., a subsidiary of Johnson & Johnson, and
United States Surgical Corporation. In addition, there are currently two other
cyanoacrylate-based topical adhesives with which DERMABOND may compete, neither
of which is approved for sale in the United States. B. Braun GmbH markets
Histoacryl(R) as a topical closure adhesive for small lacerations and incisions
in low skin tension areas of the body. Sherwood-Davis & Geck has test marketed
a similar adhesive, Indermil, in the United Kingdom. Any future products of the
Company may compete with a variety of wound closure products currently on the
market or in development.

Many of the Company's competitors and potential competitors have
substantially greater financial, technological, research and development,
marketing and personnel resources than the Company. In addition to those
mentioned above, other recently developed technologies or procedures are, or
may in the future be, the basis of competitive products. There can be no
assurance that the Company's competitors will not succeed in developing
alternative technologies and products that are more effective, easier to use or
more economical than those which have been or are being developed by the
Company or that would render the Company's technology and products obsolete and
non-competitive in these fields. These competitors may also have greater
experience in developing products, conducting clinical trials, obtaining
regulatory clearances or approvals, and manufacturing and marketing such
products. Certain of these competitors may obtain patent protection, approval
or clearance by the FDA or product commercialization earlier than the Company,
any of which could materially adversely affect the Company. Furthermore, if the
Company commences significant commercial sales of its products, it will also be
competing with respect to manufacturing efficiency and marketing capabilities,
areas in which it currently has limited experience. Finally, under the terms of
the Company's marketing agreements, the Company's marketing partners may pursue
parallel development of other technologies or products, which may result in a
marketing partner developing additional products that will compete with the
Company's products. See "Competition and Technological Change."

Dependence on Sole Source Supplier. The Company currently purchases
cyanoacetate, the primary raw material used in manufacturing most of the
Company's products, from a single qualified source. Upon manufacturing scale-up
there can be no assurance that the Company will be able to obtain adequate
increased commercial quantities within a reasonable period of time or at
commercially reasonable rates. Lack of adequate commercial quantities or
inability to develop alternative sources meeting regulatory requirements at
similar prices and terms within a reasonable time or any interruptions in


5


supply in the future could have a material adverse effect on the Company's
ability to manufacture its products, including DERMABOND, and, consequently,
could have a material adverse effect on the Company's results of operations and
financial condition. See " -- Dependence on Marketing Partners," "Marketing
Partners" and "Manufacturing."

Dependence on Patents, Trade Secrets and Proprietary Rights. The Company's
success depends in large part on whether it can obtain patents, maintain trade
secret protection and operate without infringing on the proprietary rights of
third parties. The Company has ten U.S. patents with expiration dates ranging
from 2004 to 2014 and one foreign patent, and has filed applications for nine
additional U.S. patents in addition to certain corresponding patent
applications outside the United States. There can be no assurance that any of
the pending patent applications will be approved, that the Company will develop
additional proprietary products that are patentable, that any patents issued to
the Company will provide the Company with competitive advantages or will not be
challenged by any third parties or that the patents of others will not prevent
the commercialization of products incorporating the Company's technology.
Furthermore, there can be no assurance that others will not independently
develop similar products, duplicate any of the Company's products or design
around the Company's patents. Any of the foregoing results could have a
material adverse effect on the Company's results of operations and financial
condition.

The commercial success of the Company also will depend, in part, on its
ability to avoid infringing patents issued to others. If the Company were
determined to be infringing any third party patent, the Company could be
required to pay damages, alter its products or processes, obtain licenses or
cease certain activities. If the Company is required to obtain any licenses,
there can be no assurance that the Company will be able to do so on
commercially favorable terms, if at all. The Company's failure to obtain a
license for any technology that it may require to commercialize its products
could have a material adverse effect on the Company's results of operations and
financial condition.

Litigation, which could result in substantial costs to and diversion of
efforts by the Company, may also be necessary to enforce any patents issued or
licensed to the Company or to determine the scope and validity of third party
proprietary rights. If competitors of the Company that claim technology also
claimed by the Company prepare and file patent applications in the United
States, the Company may have to participate in interference proceedings
declared by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office to determine priority of
invention, which could result in substantial costs to and diversion of efforts
by the Company, even if the eventual outcome is favorable to the Company.
Litigation could subject the Company to significant liabilities to third
parties, require disputed rights to be licensed from third parties or require
the Company to cease using certain technology and, consequently, could have a
material adverse effect on the Company's results of operations and financial
condition.

In addition to patent protection, the Company relies on unpatented trade
secrets and proprietary technological expertise. There can be no assurance that
others will not independently develop or otherwise acquire substantially
equivalent techniques, or otherwise gain access to the Company's trade secrets
and proprietary technological expertise or disclose such trade secrets, or that
the Company can ultimately protect its rights to such unpatented trade secrets
and proprietary technological expertise. The Company relies, in part, on
confidentiality agreements with its marketing partners, employees, advisors,
vendors and consultants to protect its trade secrets and proprietary
technological expertise. There can be no assurance that these agreements will
not be breached, that the Company will have adequate remedies for any breach or
that the Company's unpatented trade secrets and proprietary technological
expertise will not otherwise become known or be independently discovered by
competitors. Failure to obtain or maintain patent or trade secret protection,
for any reason, could have a material adverse effect on the Company's results
of operations and financial condition. See "Patents, Trade Secrets and
Proprietary Rights."

Effects of FDA and Other Government Regulation. As newly developed medical
devices, the Company's medical tissue cohesives must receive regulatory
clearances or approvals from the FDA and, in many instances, from foreign and
state governments, prior to their sale. In order to obtain such clearances or
approvals, medical tissue cohesives must be shown to be efficacious and safe
for use in humans. The Company's current and future medical tissue cohesives
for humans are subject to stringent government regulation in the United States
by the FDA under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act, as amended (the "FDC
Act"). The FDA regulates the preclinical and clinical testing, manufacture,
safety, labeling, sale, distribution and promotion of medical devices. Included
among these regulations are premarket clearance and premarket approval
requirements and GMPs. Other statutory and regulatory requirements include,
among other things, establishment registration and inspection, medical device
listing, prohibitions against misbranding and adulteration, labeling and
postmarket reporting.

The regulatory process is lengthy, expensive and uncertain. Before any new
medical device may be introduced to the market, the manufacturer frequently
must obtain FDA clearance or approval through either the 510(k) premarket
notification


6


("510(k)") process or the lengthier PMA approval process. It generally takes
from four to 12 months from submission to obtain 510(k) premarket clearance,
although it may take longer. Approval of a PMA could take two or more years
from the date of submission of the application. In addition, FDA approval of
color additives used to color a medical device, such as the D & C Violet No. 2
in DERMABOND, often must be obtained through the CAP process. The 510(k), PMA
and CAP processes can be expensive, uncertain and lengthy, and there is no
guarantee of ultimate clearance or approval. There can be no assurance that the
Company will obtain the necessary clearances or approvals to market its
products. Securing FDA clearances and approvals may require the submission of
extensive preclinical and clinical data and supporting information to the FDA,
and there can be no guarantee of ultimate clearance or approval. Failure to
comply with applicable requirements can result in refusals to approve or clear
new applications or notifications, withdrawals of existing product approvals or
clearances, issuances of Warning Letters, application integrity proceedings,
injunctions, civil penalties, fines, recalls or seizures of products, total or
partial suspensions of production and criminal prosecution.

Medical devices also are subject to postmarket reporting requirements for
deaths or serious injuries when the device may have caused or contributed to
death or serious injury, and for certain device malfunctions that would be
likely to cause or contribute to a death or serious injury if the malfunction
were to recur. If safety or efficacy problems occur after the product reaches
the market, the FDA may take steps to prevent or limit further marketing of the
product. Additionally, the FDA actively enforces regulations prohibiting
marketing of devices for indications or uses that have not been cleared or
approved by the FDA.

The Company's current medical devices for human use are at different
stages of FDA review. There can be no assurance that the Company will be able
to obtain necessary 510(k) clearances or PMAs to market and manufacture its
products in the United States for their intended use on a timely basis, if at
all, and delays in receipt of or failure to receive such clearances or
approvals, the loss of previously received clearances or approvals, or failure
to comply with existing or future regulatory requirements could have a material
adverse effect on the Company's results of operations and financial condition.
See " -- Uncertainty of Regulatory Approval for DERMABOND," " -- Limited
Manufacturing Experience" and "Government Regulations."

Effects of International Sales. The Company and its marketing partners
intend to market the Company's current and future products outside the United
States as well as domestically. A number of risks are inherent in international
transactions. In order for the Company to market its products in Europe,
Australia, Canada and certain other foreign jurisdictions, the Company must
obtain required market authorizations and otherwise comply with extensive
regulations regarding safety, manufacturing processes and quality. These
regulations, including the requirements for authorizations to market, may
differ from the FDA regulatory scheme. There can be no assurance that the
Company will obtain market authorizations in such countries or that it will not
be required to incur significant costs in obtaining or maintaining its foreign
market authorizations. Delays in receipt of authorizations to market the
Company's products in foreign countries, failure to receive such authorizations
or the future loss of previously received authorizations could have a material
adverse effect on the Company's results of operations and financial condition.
International sales also may be limited or disrupted by political instability,
price controls, trade restrictions and changes in tariffs. The Company's
royalties from international sales of DERMABOND are based on net sales in
foreign currencies, but payable in U.S. dollars, and thus may be adversely
affected by fluctuations in currency exchange rates. Additionally, fluctuations
in currency exchange rates may adversely affect demand for the Company's
products by increasing the price of the Company's products in the currency of
the countries in which the products are sold. There can be no assurance that
the Company will be able to successfully commercialize its current or future
products in any foreign market. See "Marketing Partners" and "Government
Regulations."

Future Capital Needs and Uncertainty of Additional Financing. The Company
has expended and expects to continue to expend substantial funds to complete
the research, development and clinical testing of its existing products and
future products in development and to establish commercial-scale manufacturing
facilities. The Company believes that existing cash and cash equivalents and
short-term investments, which totaled $21.7 million as of December 31, 1997,
will be sufficient to finance its capital requirements for at least 18 months.
There can be no assurance that the Company will not be required to seek
additional capital to finance its operations in the future. Other than the
Company's equipment financing line of credit and term loan, the Company
currently has no commitments for any additional financing, and there can be no
assurance that adequate funds for the Company's operations from the Company's
revenues, financial markets, arrangements with marketing partners or from other
sources will be available when needed or on terms attractive to the Company.
The inability to obtain sufficient funds may require the Company to delay,
scale back or eliminate some or all of its research and product development
programs, manufacturing operations, clinical studies or regulatory activities
or to license third parties


7


to commercialize products or technologies that the Company would otherwise seek
to develop itself, and could have a material adverse effect on the Company's
results of operations and financial condition. See "Item 7 -- Management's
Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations --
Liquidity and Capital Resources."


Business Overview
Closure develops, manufactures and commercializes medical tissue cohesive
products based on its proprietary cyanoacrylate technology. The Company's
medical tissue cohesives can be used to close and seal wounds and incisions
rapidly and stop leakage of blood and other body fluids from injured tissue.
Closure's medical tissue cohesive products align and seal injured tissue
without the trauma caused by suturing or stapling and allow natural healing to
proceed. In addition, Closure believes that its medical tissue cohesive
products result in lower overall procedure costs and are easier and quicker to
use than sutures or staples.

The Company's lead product, DERMABOND, is a nonabsorbable tissue cohesive
that can be used to replace sutures and staples for certain topical wound
closure applications. On January 30, 1998, the General and Plastic Surgery
Devices Panel, an advisory committee of the FDA, unanimously recommended
approval with conditions of the Company's PMA for DERMABOND. Assuming the
receipt of necessary regulatory approvals, DERMABOND is expected to be marketed
in the United States, Brazil, Japan and Canada by the end of 1998. The
Company's marketing partner for DERMABOND, Ethicon, launched DERMABOND on a
limited basis in 23 countries outside the United States in late 1997 after the
Company received authorization to display the CE mark.

The Company has two other nonabsorbable products for human use and a
product line for veterinary uses. Octyldent, which received 510(k) clearance
from the FDA, is a topical sealant currently used in conjunction with
Actisite(R), a site-specific drug delivery system manufactured by ALZA
Corporation ("ALZA"), to treat adult periodontal disease. Octyldent is marketed
with Actisite(R) in the United States by Procter & Gamble/ALZA, Partners for
Oral Health Care (the "Procter & Gamble/ALZA Partnership") and outside the
United States by ALZA. Nexacryl is a topical sealant to be used in the repair
of corneal ulcers and lacerations and is awaiting PMA approval. The Company has
entered into a marketing agreement with Chiron Vision Corporation ("Chiron")
for exclusive worldwide marketing and distribution of Nexacryl. Nexaband is a
product line of five topical tissue cohesives marketed by Farnam Companies,
Inc. ("Farnam") and used in veterinary wound closure and management.

The Company is currently developing additional nonabsorbable tissue
cohesive products. These future products require further development, clinical
trials and regulatory clearance or approval prior to commercialization.

Closure is also developing absorbable cyanoacrylate products for internal
applications. In January 1998, Closure established the Absorbable Cohesive
Technology Division, which has separate personnel and a separate research and
development facility, in order to develop and commercialize its absorbable
cohesive products. Any future absorbable products require further development,
clinical trials and regulatory clearance or approval prior to
commercialization.

Technology Overview
Closure's medical tissue cohesive products are based on its proprietary
cyanoacrylate technology. Cyanoacrylates are a family of liquid monomers that
react under a variety of conditions to form polymer films with strong adhesive
properties. Industrial adhesives based on cyanoacrylates were first introduced
in 1958 and are widely used in the aerospace and automotive industries, as well
as in consumer products such as super glue. Closure's technology enables it to
develop nonabsorbable formulations for topical use and absorbable formulations
for internal use. Nonabsorbable formulations close and seal skin wounds and
incisions for the duration of healing, then slough off naturally as new skin
cells are produced and the wound bed heals. Absorbable formulations may be used
to close or seal internal wounds and degrade, in a predictable, biocompatible
manner, into components that are eliminated from the body naturally.

The Company's proprietary technology allows it to customize the physical
and chemical properties of cyanoacrylates to meet specific market needs. These
properties include viscosity, flexibility, bond strength, stability, setting
time, porosity and biodegradation. The Company's current products perform
consistently and reproducibly, do not require special preparation or
refrigeration and have shelf-lives of at least 18 months.

Closure has developed applicator and packaging technology to deliver
DERMABOND and other products to wound sites in order to enhance the utility of
its products. The current DERMABOND applicator contains a catalyst that
controls the rate of polymerization and allows the cohesive film to be applied
in multiple layers, which enhances bond strength.

During the years ended December 31, 1995, 1996 and 1997, the Company spent
$652,000, $861,000 and $1,639,000, respectively, on research and development
activities.


8


Products
The Company's medical tissue cohesive products are an alternative to the
traditional method of closing topical and internal wounds and incisions.
Suturing and stapling involve puncturing healthy tissue in order to align and
close the wound, may cause leakage or additional scarring at the small puncture
sites, require anesthetics, are time-consuming to apply, and generally require
return patient visits and physician time to remove the sutures or staples.
Medical tissue cohesives may be applied quickly, may not require anesthetics,
do not induce trauma to surrounding tissues and do not require return visits to
the physician for removal.


DERMABOND

The Company's lead product, DERMABOND, is a topical tissue cohesive used
to close wounds from skin lacerations and incisions, minimally invasive surgery
and plastic surgery. DERMABOND is used as a replacement for sutures or staples
or in conjunction with subcuticular sutures or staples. DERMABOND is intended
to be used topically for wound closure on low skin tension areas of the body
and is not intended for use on the hands, feet or across joints. Although the
purchase cost of DERMABOND is expected to be greater than sutures or staples,
the Company believes that the use of DERMABOND will result in lower overall
material and procedure costs because of reduced treatment time, elimination of
the need for anesthetics, simplification of post-closure wound care and
elimination of suture or staple removal.

On January 30, 1998, the General and Plastic Surgery Devices Panel, an FDA
advisory committee, unanimously recommended approval with conditions of the
Company's PMA for DERMABOND. The panel recommended two labeling conditions: a
statement to remind physicians to adequately cleanse wounds using appropriate
techniques and a statement that DERMABOND is not intended to replace sutures
beneath the skin when sutures are clinically indicated.

The Company completed an 818-patient controlled, randomized clinical trial
of DERMABOND at ten sites throughout the United States. The clinical trial
compared wound closure utilizing DERMABOND with wound closure utilizing sutures
or staples. The clinical trial demonstrated DERMABOND to be at least comparable
to topical nonabsorbable U.S.P. size 5.0 or smaller diameter sutures, staples
or adhesive strips/tapes in wound closure, wound healing, cosmetic outcome and
infection rate, and also demonstrated that the use of DERMABOND substantially
reduced procedure time and inflammation.

A PMA for DERMABOND is anticipated after the Company passes a GMP
inspection by the FDA, including validation of its manufacturing process, and
receives FDA approval of labeling and approval of the Company's CAP for use of
a color additive in DERMABOND. There can be no assurance as to the timing of
these events. See "Risk Factors--Uncertainty of Regulatory Approval for
DERMABOND."

In March 1996, the Company entered into an agreement with Ethicon, a
subsidiary of Johnson & Johnson and a world leader in wound closure products,
to market and distribute DERMABOND. The Company received authorization to
display the CE mark for DERMABOND in the European Union in August 1997, which
allows DERMABOND to be marketed throughout the European Union. Ethicon launched
DERMABOND on a limited basis in 23 countries outside the United States in late
1997. Assuming the receipt of necessary regulatory approvals, product launch of
DERMABOND is expected in the United States, Brazil, Japan and Canada by the end
of 1998.


Other Products

Octyldent, the Company's first product for human use, is a topical sealant
used in conjunction with site-specific sustained release antibacterial drug
therapy to treat adult periodontal disease. Octyldent seals the pocket of a
diseased gum where Actisite-, a therapeutic drug delivery system manufactured
by ALZA, has been inserted, thereby allowing the system to remain in place over
a ten-day period. Octyldent is marketed with Actisite- by the Procter &
Gamble/ALZA Partnership in the United States and outside the United States by
ALZA. Nexacryl is a topical sealant to be used in the repair of corneal ulcers
and lacerations. The Company received an approvable letter from the FDA for its
PMA application for Nexacryl and PMA approval is contingent upon sterilization
validation studies and FDA approval of labeling. The Company's marketing
partner for Nexacryl is Chiron. The Company has five topical tissue cohesive
products sold under the Nexaband trade name used in veterinary wound closure
and management procedures. The Nexaband products are distributed through
Farnam, a leader in large animal over-the-counter products and small and large
animal ethical product markets.


Products in Development

The Company is currently developing additional nonabsorbable tissue
cohesive products. These future products require further development, clinical
trials and regulatory clearance or approval prior to commercialization. See
"Government Regulations."


9


In January 1998, Closure established the Absorbable Cohesive Technology
Division, which has separate personnel and a separate research and development
facility, in order to develop and commercialize its absorbable cohesive
products. The Division will be responsible for developing absorbable
cyanoacrylate products for internal applications. The Company presently has two
products in development, a surgical tissue cohesive to be used to close
internal surgical incisions and traumatic wounds and a surgical sealant to be
used to control post-surgical leakage at suture closure sites. Any future
absorbable products require further development, clinical trials and regulatory
clearance or approval prior to commercialization. See "Government Regulations."



Ethicon and Other Marketing Agreements

The Company's strategy for its current nonabsorbable products is to enter
into marketing agreements with marketing partners to sell its products. The
Company is dependent on its marketing partners to market and distribute these
products. Although the Company believes that its marketing partners have an
economic motivation to succeed in performing their contractual
responsibilities, the amount and timing of resources to be devoted to these
activities are not within the control of the Company. Any future products of
the Company may be sold through marketing partners or a direct sales force. See
"Risk Factors--Dependence on Marketing Partners."

In March 1996, the Company entered into a renewable, eight-year supply and
distribution agreement with Ethicon, a subsidiary of Johnson & Johnson, which
provides Ethicon with exclusive worldwide rights to market, distribute and sell
DERMABOND, the Company's lead nonabsorbable product. The agreement provides for
certain up-front and milestone payments to the Company, provides for the
reimbursement of certain expenses associated with clinical trials, requires
Ethicon to make minimum purchases that escalate annually after receipt of FDA
or European Community approval and requires Ethicon to pay royalties based upon
net sales. Ethicon may renew the agreement for additional one-year periods. The
agreement is terminable upon specified events, including (i) material breach by
either party, (ii) insolvency of either party and (iii) failure to obtain
regulatory approval for DERMABOND in the United States within two years from
the date of submission of the Company's 510(k) notification or PMA. Upon
certain events of default, including failure to provide an adequate supply of
product, Ethicon may terminate its arrangement to purchase DERMABOND from the
Company, and Ethicon may itself then manufacture DERMABOND and only pay the
Company royalties based on sales. See "Risk Factors -- Limited Manufacturing
Experience," "Risk Factors -- Dependence on Marketing Partners," "Products --
DERMABOND" and "Manufacturing."

The Company entered into a supply agreement with the Procter & Gamble/ALZA
Partnership which grants it non-exclusive worldwide rights to market and
distribute Octyldent with Actisite(R), a product manufactured by ALZA. The
Company entered into a supply agreement with ALZA which grants it non-exclusive
rights to market Octyldent worldwide, except in the United States, Canada,
Mexico and Venezuela, where the Procter & Gamble/ALZA Partnership has marketing
rights. The agreements guarantee the Company minimum purchases annually and
provide for specified prices per unit. The agreements have automatic renewals
for additional one-year periods and are terminable upon specified events,
including, among others, certain breaches and revocation or suspension of the
Company's 510(k) clearance for Octyldent.

The Company entered into a supply and distribution agreement with Chiron
which provides it with the exclusive rights to market, sell and distribute
certain human ophthalmic products on a worldwide basis and provides Chiron with
an option to expand its coverage to include new products. The Company will
receive a milestone payment upon FDA marketing approval of its first ophthalmic
product, Nexacryl. The agreement guarantees the Company minimum purchases that
escalate annually and has a term of 10 years from the effective date of U.S.
regulatory approval of the last-approved product. The agreement is terminable
upon specified events, including, among others, certain breaches or upon 30
days' notice from Chiron as to any product for which FDA clearance or approval
is then pending or 180 days' notice from Chiron for products for which FDA
clearance or approval is obtained. In certain circumstances, Chiron may
terminate its arrangement to purchase products from the Company, and may itself
then manufacture such products and only pay the Company royalties based on
sales.

In December 1992, the Company entered into a renewable, seven-year
development and distribution agreement with Farnam. The Company granted Farnam
the exclusive rights to market, sell and distribute its Nexaband line of
veterinary products to the ethical veterinary market in North America. In
addition to the existing nonabsorbable Nexaband products covered by this
agreement, Farnam has exclusive rights in North America to any absorbable
veterinary cohesive products developed by the Company. The agreement provides
for minimum purchases which increase annually and is terminable upon specified
events, including material breach by either party. The agreement will
automatically renew for successive one-year periods contingent on Farnam
meeting required levels of purchases.


10


Patents, Trade Secrets and Proprietary Rights

The Company's success depends in large part on its ability to obtain
patents, maintain trade secret protection and operate without infringing on the
proprietary rights of third parties. The Company has ten U.S. patents with
expiration dates ranging from 2004 to 2014 and one foreign patent, and has
filed applications for nine additional U.S. patents in addition to certain
patent applications outside the United States. The issued U.S. patents relate
to the Company's tissue cohesive formulations and delivery technology. The
pending U.S. patent applications relate to the Company's formulations,
sterilization, processes and delivery technology.

There can be no assurance that any of the pending patent applications will
be approved, that the Company will develop additional proprietary products that
are patentable, that any patents issued to the Company will provide the Company
with competitive advantages or will not be challenged by any third parties or
that the patents of others will not prevent the commercialization of products
incorporating the Company's technology. Furthermore, there can be no assurance
that others will not independently develop similar products, duplicate any of
the Company's products or design around the Company's patents. Any of the
foregoing results could have a material adverse effect on the Company's results
of operations and financial condition.

The commercial success of the Company also will depend, in part, on its
ability to avoid infringing patents issued to others. If the Company were
determined to be infringing any third party patent, the Company could be
required to pay damages, alter its products or processes, obtain licenses or
cease certain activities. If the Company is required to obtain any licenses,
there can be no assurance that the Company will be able to do so on
commercially favorable terms, if at all. The Company's failure to obtain a
license for any technology that it may require to commercialize its products
could have a material adverse impact on the Company's results of operations and
financial condition.

Litigation, which could result in substantial costs to and diversion of
efforts by the Company, may also be necessary to enforce any patents issued or
licensed to the Company or to determine the scope and validity of third party
proprietary rights. If competitors of the Company that claim technology also
claimed by the Company prepare and file patent applications in the United
States, the Company may have to participate in interference proceedings
declared by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office to determine priority of
invention, which could result in substantial costs to and diversion of efforts
by the Company, even if the eventual outcome is favorable to the Company.
Litigation could subject the Company to significant liabilities to third
parties, require disputed rights to be licensed from third parties or require
the Company to cease using such technology and, consequently, could have a
material adverse effect on the Company's results of operations and financial
condition.

In addition to patent protection, the Company relies on unpatented trade
secrets and proprietary technological expertise. There can be no assurance that
others will not independently develop or otherwise acquire substantially
equivalent techniques, or otherwise gain access to the Company's trade secrets
and proprietary technological expertise or disclose such trade secrets, or that
the Company can ultimately protect its rights to such unpatented trade secrets
and proprietary technological expertise. The Company relies, in part, on
confidentiality agreements with its marketing partners, employees, advisors,
vendors and consultants to protect its trade secrets and proprietary
technological expertise. There can be no assurance that these agreements will
not be breached, that the Company will have adequate remedies for any breach or
that the Company's unpatented trade secrets and proprietary technological
expertise will not otherwise become known or be independently discovered by
competitors. Failure to obtain or maintain patent and trade secret protection,
for any reason, could have a material adverse effect on the Company's results
of operations and financial condition.


Government Regulations

The Company's products and operations are subject to substantial
government regulation in the United States and foreign countries.


FDA Regulation

Most medical devices, including the Company's medical tissue cohesives for
humans, are subject to stringent government regulation in the United States by
the FDA under the FDC Act, and, in many instances, by foreign and state
governments. The FDA regulates the preclinical and clinical testing,
manufacture, safety, labeling, sale, distribution and promotion of medical
devices. Included among these regulations are premarket clearance and premarket
approval requirements and GMPs. Other statutory and regulatory requirements
include, among other things, establishment registration and inspection, medical
device listing, prohibitions against misbranding and adulteration, labeling and
postmarket reporting. The regulatory


11


process is lengthy, expensive and uncertain. Securing FDA approvals and
clearances may require the submission of extensive preclinical and clinical
data and supporting information to the FDA. Failure to comply with applicable
requirements can result in refusal to approve or clear new applications or
notifications, withdrawals of existing product approvals or clearances,
issuances of Warning Letters, application integrity proceedings, injunctions,
civil penalties, fines, recalls or seizures of products, total or partial
suspensions of production and criminal prosecution. See "Risk Factors --
Effects of FDA and Other Government Regulation."

Under the FDC Act, medical devices are classsified into one of three
classes (Class I, II or III) on the basis of the controls necessary to
reasonably ensure their safety and effectiveness. Before any new medical device
may be introduced to the market, the manufacturer frequently must obtain either
premarket clearance through the 510(k) premarket notification process or
premarket approval through the lengthier PMA process. If a color additive is
used to color the medical device, the manufacturer may be required to submit a
CAP and obtain FDA approval for use of the color additive in production of the
device. A 510(k) premarket notification will be granted if the submitted data
establish that the proposed device is "substantially equivalent" to a legally
marketed Class I or Class II medical device, or to a Class III medical device
for which the FDA has not called for PMAs. The FDA may request extensive data,
including clinical studies of the device's safety and effectiveness, before a
substantial equivalence determination can be made. It generally takes from four
to 12 months from submission to obtain 510(k) premarket clearance, although it
may take longer. A PMA application must be filed if a product is found to be
not substantially equivalent to a legally marketed Class I or II device or if
it is a Class III device for which the FDA has called for PMAs. DERMABOND and
Nexacryl are Class III medical devices. A PMA application must be supported by
extensive data, including laboratory, preclinical and clinical trial data, to
demonstrate the safety and efficacy of the device, as well as extensive
manufacturing information. Similarly, a CAP must be supported with extensive
data and information demonstrating the safety of the color additive under the
conditions of intended use in the device. Before initiating human clinical
trials, the manufacturer often must first obtain an Investigational Device
Exemption ("IDE") for the proposed medical device. Prior to granting a PMA, the
FDA will generally conduct an inspection of the manufacturer's facilities to
ensure compliance with GMPs and the FDA must approve final labeling. Approval
of a PMA or a CAP could take two or more years from the date of submission of
the application or petition. The PMA and CAP processes can be expensive,
uncertain and lengthy, and there is no guarantee of ultimate approval.

Modifications or enhancements to products that are either cleared through
the 510(k) process or approved through the PMA process that could affect safety
or effectiveness or effect a major change in the intended use of the device may
require further FDA review through new 510(k) or PMA submissions. Additionally,
future modifications of the Company's manufacturing facilities and processes
may subject the Company to further FDA inspections and review prior to
implementation of such modifications.

Medical devices also are subject to postmarket reporting requirements for
deaths or serious injuries when the device may have caused or contributed to
the death or serious injury, and for certain device malfunctions that would be
likely to cause or contribute to a death or serious injury if the malfunction
were to recur. If safety or efficacy problems occur after the product reaches
the market, the FDA may take steps to prevent or limit further marketing of the
product. Additionally, the FDA actively enforces regulations prohibiting
marketing of devices for indications or uses that have not been cleared or
approved by the FDA.

The Company's current medical devices for human use are at different
stages of FDA review. In January 1998, the General and Plastic Surgery Devices
Panel, an FDA advisory committee, unanimously recommended approval with
conditions of the Company's PMA for DERMABOND. The panel recommended two
labeling conditions: a statement to remind physicians to adequately cleanse
wounds using appropriate techniques and a statement that DERMABOND is not
intended to replace sutures beneath the skin when sutures are clinically
indicated. A PMA for DERMABOND is anticipated after the Company passes a GMP
inspection by the FDA, including validation of its manufacturing process, and
receives FDA approval of labeling and approval of the Company's CAP for use of
a color additive in DERMABOND. Octyldent, the Company's product sold in
conjunction with Actisite(R), received 510(k) clearance in 1990, and is subject
to GMP, postmarket reporting and other FDA requirements. Nexacryl has received
an approvable letter from the FDA and PMA approval is anticipated following
sterilization validation studies and FDA approval of labeling.

There can be no assurance that the Company will be able to obtain
necessary 510(k) clearances or PMA and CAP approvals to market its products in
the United States for their intended use on a timely basis, if at all, and
delays in receipt of or failure to receive such clearances or approvals, the
loss of previously received clearances or approvals, or failure to comply with
existing or future regulatory requirements could have a material adverse effect
on the Company's results of operations and financial condition. See "Risk
Factors -- Uncertainty of Regulatory Approval for DERMABOND," "Risk Factors --
Limited Manufacturing Experience" and "Risk Factors -- Effects of FDA and Other
Government Regulation."


12


Foreign Regulatory Matters

In order for the Company to market its products in Europe, Australia,
Canada and certain other foreign jurisdictions, the Company must obtain
required market authorizations and otherwise comply with extensive regulations
regarding safety, manufacturing processes and quality. These regulations,
including the requirements for authorizations to market, may differ from the
FDA regulatory scheme. The time required to obtain authorization for marketing
of the Company's products in foreign countries may be longer or shorter than
that required for FDA clearance or approval, and the requirements may differ.
In addition, there may be foreign regulatory barriers other than market
authorizations. There can be no assurance that the Company will obtain market
authorizations in such countries or that it will not be required to incur
significant costs in obtaining or maintaining its foreign market
authorizations. Delays in receipt of authorizations to market the Company's
products in foreign countries, failure to receive such authorizations or the
future loss of previously received authorizations could have a material adverse
effect on the Company's results of operations and financial condition.

Pursuant to the FDC Act, a non-FDA approved medical device may be exported
to any country, provided that the device complies with the laws of that country
and has valid marketing authorization or the equivalent from the appropriate
authority in a "listed country." The listed countries are Australia, Canada,
Israel, Japan, New Zealand, Switzerland, South Africa and countries in the
European Union and the European Economic Area. Generally, export of unapproved
devices (i.e., those requiring a PMA in the U.S.) that do not have marketing
authorization in a listed country will continue to require prior FDA export
authorization.

Medical devices that are marketed or put into service within the European
Union are required to comply with Council Directive 93/42/EEC, the medical
devices directive ("MDD"). As of June 14, 1998, compliance with the MDD
requires that manufacturers of devices covered by the MDD must obtain the right
to display the CE mark, which allows the device to be marketed, put into
service and circulated freely within the European Union. The Company received
authorization to display the CE mark in the European Union for DERMABOND and
other topical and ophthalmic tissue cohesive applications in August 1997 and
for Octyldent in August 1995. The Company plans to pursue the right to display
the CE mark on future products for human use that the Company may develop.
There can be no assurance that the Company will be successful in obtaining the
right to display the CE mark on any additional medical devices. Failure to
obtain the right to display the CE mark on its medical devices could have a
material adverse effect on the Company's results of operations and financial
condition. See "Risk Factors -- FDA and Other Government Regulation."

Upon receipt of the CE mark, every six months for two years and annually
thereafter, the Company must demonstrate that its quality management system
meets the requirements of the MDD and its technical documentation for products
displaying the CE mark is accurate and reflects the current manufacturing
process. See "Manufacturing."


Environmental Regulations

The Company's activities involve the controlled use of hazardous materials
and chemicals. The Company is subject to federal, state and local laws and
regulations governing the use, manufacture, storage, handling and disposal of
such material and certain waste products. Although the Company believes that
its safety procedures for handling and disposing of such materials comply in
all material respects with the standards prescribed by such laws and
regulations, risk of accidental contamination or injury from these materials
cannot be completely eliminated. In the event of such an accident, the Company
could be held liable for any damages that result and such liability could have
a material adverse effect on the Company's results of operations and financial
condition and potentially could exceed the resources of the Company.
Environmental protection has been an area of substantial concern in recent
years, and regulation of activities involving the use and disposal of
potentially hazardous materials has increased. There can be no assurance that
such regulation will not increase in the future or that the Company will not be
required to incur significant costs to comply with environmental laws and
regulations in the future.


Manufacturing

The Company has devoted considerable resources to the development of
manufacturing processes and technologies capable of providing its products with
clinical efficacy, safety, ease of use and suitable shelf life. The Company has
developed a manufacturing process designed to produce a highly purified base
material which is not achievable by other existing methodologies. The Company
relies heavily on internal trade secrets and technological expertise and
expects to keep its manufacturing process in-house and, where applicable, seek
patent protection for specific manufacturing applications.

The Company currently manufactures all of its products in a 15,000 square
foot facility in Raleigh, North Carolina. This facility integrates production,
bottling, labeling and packaging capabilities for products currently being
marketed. The


13


Company recently relocated its corporate offices to a new 50,000 square foot
facility in Raleigh and is in the process of relocating its manufacturing
operations to the same facility. The Company expects that its manufacturing
operations in the new facility will be validated and fully operational by the
fourth quarter of 1998 and believes that this facility will be sufficient to
meet Ethicon's worldwide market demand for DERMABOND. See "Item 2 --
Properties."

The Company is implementing a multiphase plan for additional expansion of
its manufacturing capabilities in conjunction with the launch of DERMABOND in
Europe and the future launch of the product in the United States. Part of this
expansion is the integration of all the operations associated with the filling
and packaging of DERMABOND, which currently are completed by outside providers.
Such expansion and scale-up is expected to occur over the next three years and
will provide for sufficient capacity for all current products, including
DERMABOND, as well as planned new product introductions. Production of
commercial-scale quantities may involve technical challenges for the Company
and will require significant scale-up expenses for additions to facilities and
personnel. There can be no assurance that the Company will be able to achieve
large-scale manufacturing capabilities or to manufacture its products in a
cost-effective manner or in quantities necessary to allow the Company to
achieve profitability. If the Company is unable to expand sufficiently its
manufacturing capacity to meet Ethicon's requirements for DERMABOND as set
forth under their agreement, Ethicon may itself then manufacture DERMABOND and
only pay the Company royalties based on sales. See "Risk Factors -- Limited
Manufacturing Experience" and "Marketing Partners."

In June 1997, in connection with the Company's application for its CE mark
to market DERMABOND in the European Union, the Company was registered by its
notified body, British Standards Institution ("BSI"), to certify that the
Company's quality management system complies with the requirements of the ISO
9002 international quality assurance standard issued by the International
Organization of Standardization of Geneva, Switzerland. In January 1998, BSI
expanded the scope of the Company's quality system certification to include
compliance with ISO 9001, a comprehensive international standard for
manufacturing and servicing firms for quality assurance in design, development,
production, installation and servicing.

The Company presently purchases cyanoacetate, the primary raw material
used in the manufacture of the Company's medical cohesives, from one source.
The Company has the capability of manufacturing cyanoacetate if necessary, and
cyanoacetate may be available from a second supplier. The Company would be
required to qualify the quality assurance systems of an additional supplier
prior to its use as a source of supply. The other raw materials used in
manufacturing and packaging the Company's products are readily available from
multiple sources, as is its process control equipment. See "Risk Factors --
Dependence on Sole Source Supplier."

The Company presently hires filling and packaging employees on a temporary
basis, and the Company expects that a portion of the Company's future packaging
requirements will be completed by outside providers.


Competition and Technological Change

The Company competes with many domestic and foreign competitors in various
rapidly evolving and technologically advanced fields in developing its
technology and products, including medical device, pharmaceutical and
biopharmaceutical companies. In the worldwide wound closure market, the Company
believes that DERMABOND will compete with the suture products of Ethicon, the
world leader in the wound closure market, and Tyco International Ltd., as well
as the staple products of Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc., a subsidiary of Johnson &
Johnson, and United States Surgical Corporation. In addition, there are
currently two other cyanoacrylate-based topical adhesives with which DERMABOND
may compete, neither of which is approved for sale in the United States. B.
Braun GmbH markets Histoacryl(R) as a topical closure adhesive for small
lacerations and incisions in low skin tension areas of the body. Sherwood-Davis
& Geck has test marketed a similar adhesive, Indermil, in the United Kingdom.
Any future products of the Company may compete with a variety of wound closure
products currently on the market or in development. Many of the Company's
competitors and potential competitors have substantially greater financial,
technological, research and development, marketing and personnel resources than
the Company. In addition to those mentioned above, other recently developed
technologies or procedures are, or may in the future be, the basis of
competitive products.

There can be no assurance that the Company's competitors will not succeed
in developing alternative technologies and products that are more effective,
easier to use or more economical than those which have been or are being
developed by the Company or that would render the Company's technology and
products obsolete and noncompetitive in these fields. These competitors may
also have greater experience in developing products, conducting clinical
trials, obtaining regulatory approvals, and manufacturing and marketing such
products. Certain of these competitors may obtain patent protection, approval
or clearance by the FDA or foreign countries or product commercialization
earlier than the Company, any of which could materially adversely affect the
Company. Furthermore, if the Company commences significant commercial sales of
its


14


products, it will also be competing with respect to manufacturing efficiency
and marketing capabilities, areas in which it currently has limited experience.
Finally, under the terms of the Company's marketing agreements, the Company's
marketing partners may pursue parallel development of other technologies or
products, which may result in a marketing partner developing additional
products that will compete with the Company's products.


Scientific Advisors

The Company has established a team of scientific advisors (the "Scientific
Advisors") who provide consulting services to the Company. The Scientific
Advisors consist of independent professionals who meet on an individual basis
with management when so requested. The Scientific Advisors have recognized
expertise in relevant sciences or clinical medicine and advise the Company
about present and long-term scientific planning, research and development.

There is no fixed term of service for the Scientific Advisors. Current
members may resign or be removed at any time, and additional members may be
appointed. Members do not serve on an exclusive basis with the Company, are not
under contract (other than with respect to confidentiality obligations) and are
not obligated to present corporate opportunities to the Company. To
management's knowledge, none of the members is working on the development of
competitive products. Inventions or products developed by a Scientific Advisor
who is not otherwise affiliated with the Company will not become the Company's
property, but will remain the Scientific Advisor's property.


Employees

As of March 18, 1998, the Company had 61 full-time employees, of whom 48
were dedicated to research, development, manufacturing, quality control and
regulatory affairs and 13 were dedicated to administrative activities. Nine
members of the Company's research and development staff have doctoral or
advanced degrees. The Company intends to recruit additional personnel in
connection with the research, development and manufacturing of its products.
None of the Company's employees is represented by a union, and the Company
believes relationships with its employees are good.


Executive Officers of the Company

The table below sets forth the names, ages and titles of the persons who
are the executive officers of the Company as of March 18, 1998.





Name Age Position
- ------------------------------- ----- -----------------------------------------------------------

Robert V. Toni ................ 57 President and Chief Executive Officer and Director
J. Blount Swain ............... 41 Vice President of Finance and Chief Financial Officer
Joe B. Barefoot ............... 47 Vice President of Regulatory Affairs and Quality Assurance
Dennis D. Burns ............... 52 Vice President/General Manager, Absorbable Cohesive
Technology Division
Jeffrey G. Clark .............. 44 Vice President of Research and Development
William M. Cotter ............. 47 Vice President of Manufacturing and Operations
Anthony J. Sherbondy .......... 44 Vice President of New Business Generation


Robert V. Toni has served as President and Chief Executive Officer of the
Company since June 1994 and as a director of the Company since February 1996.
From 1989 to 1994, Mr. Toni was General Manager and Vice President of Sales and
Marketing for IOLAB Corporation, a Johnson & Johnson company that marketed and
manufactured surgical devices, equipment and pharmaceuticals for the ophthalmic
market. From 1987 to 1989, he served as President of Cooper Vision-CILCO, and
also served as its Executive Vice President of Operations and Chief Financial
Officer from 1984 to 1987. Mr. Toni holds a B.S. degree in Finance from Iona
College.

J. Blount Swain has served as Vice President of Finance and Chief
Financial Officer of the Company since September 1992. From 1983 until 1992,
Mr. Swain was Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer of The Record Bar, Inc., a
national music retailing entity. Prior to 1983, Mr. Swain served as a Senior
Accountant with Price Waterhouse in Raleigh, North Carolina. Mr. Swain holds a
B.S. degree from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and is a
certified public accountant.

Joe B. Barefoot has served as Vice President of Regulatory Affairs and
Quality Assurance of the Company since 1990. From 1986 to 1990, Mr. Barefoot
managed the quality assurance program and regulatory submissions for Sharpoint,
Inc. and its successor. From 1982 to 1986, he was a member of the quality
assurance staff at C.R. Bard Inc. Prior to that time, he was a member of the
quality assurance staff at Becton, Dickinson & Co. Mr. Barefoot holds a B.S.
degree in Microbiology from Emporia State University.


15


Dennis D. Burns has served as Vice President/General Manager of the
Company's newly-formed Absorbable Cohesive Technology Division since February
1998. From 1994 to 1997, Mr. Burns was principal of The Delta Group, a
healthcare consulting company he founded in 1994, through which he functioned
as President of EpiGenesis Pharmaceuticals. From 1992 to 1994, he was President
and Chief Executive Officer of Macronex, Inc., an immunotherapy company. From
1979 to 1992, Mr. Burns held various executive positions at Johnson & Johnson,
most recently from 1988 to 1992 as Vice President, Business Development of
Ortho Biotech, Inc. Mr. Burns holds a B.S. degree in Biology from Manhattan
College.

Jeffrey G. Clark has served as Vice President of Research and Development
of the Company since 1990. Prior to that time, Mr. Clark spent seven years at
Sharpoint, Inc. and its successor where he developed bioabsorbable and
polypropylene suture technology. From 1977 to 1983, Mr. Clark worked at
Extracorporeal Inc., a division of Johnson & Johnson. Mr. Clark holds a M.S.
degree in Organic Chemistry from Drexel University.

William M. Cotter has served as Vice President of Manufacturing and
Operations of the Company since June 1997. From 1989 to 1997, Mr. Cotter was
Vice President of Operations (North America) of Sanofi Diagnostics Pasteur,
Inc., a company involved in the design, manufacturing and marketing of in vitro
diagnostics instrumentation and biological reagents. From 1984 to 1988, he
worked at Genetic Systems Corporation, a subsidiary of Bristol Myers Company,
where he was involved in the commercialization of one of the first diagnostic
test kits for the HIV virus. Prior to that time, Mr. Cotter worked at Advanced
Technology Laboratories, Inc., a division of E.R. Squibb Company, from 1980 to
1984. Mr. Cotter holds a B.A. degree from Ohio University.

Anthony J. Sherbondy has served as Vice President of New Business
Generation of the Company since January 1998. Prior to that time, Mr. Sherbondy
served as Director of Marketing of the Company from October 1996. From 1995 to
1996, he was the principal executive and founder of MedNet Market Research,
LLC, a healthcare market research company. From 1992 to 1995, Mr. Sherbondy
served as Director of Sales and Marketing Operations for
Pasteur-Merieux-Connaught, a Rh-ne-Poulenc company. From 1983 to 1992, he held
various positions at IOLAB Corporation, a Johnson & Johnson company. Mr.
Sherbondy holds a B.A. degree from California State University and an M.B.A.
from The Claremont Graduate School.


ITEM 2. Properties.

In February 1997, the Company entered into a ten-year lease for
approximately 50,000 square feet of office, laboratory and manufacturing space
in Raleigh, North Carolina for, among other things, the corporate headquarters
of the Company and the expansion of manufacturing capacity. The term of this
lease began in September 1997. The Company recently relocated its corporate
offices to this new facility and is in the process of relocating its
manufacturing operations to the same facility. The Company expects that its
manufacturing operations in the new facility will be validated and fully
operational by the fourth quarter of 1998. The Company also leases
approximately 15,000 square feet of office, laboratory and manufacturing space
in Raleigh and presently manufactures all of its products in this facility, and
leases a 5,800 square foot facility in Raleigh in which the Company's recently
formed Absorbable Cohesive Technology Division conducts its research and
development activities and other operations. The Company recently negotiated
lease extensions for these two facilities through November 1998 and March 2001,
respectively.


ITEM 3. Legal Proceedings.

In March 1997, the Company was served with a complaint filed in the
Superior Court Department of the Trial Court of the Commonwealth of
Massachusetts alleging personal injury as a result of negligence by the Company
in the design, testing and distribution of Avacryl, an n-butyl cyanoacrylate
used in a medical procedure in 1993 as part of a clinical trial conducted by
the Company pursuant to an IDE. The Company's insurer assumed the defense of
this lawsuit. This case is in the process of being settled. The Company has
paid a nominal amount in full payment of its share of the settlement,

The Company is currently not a party to any material legal proceedings.


ITEM 4. Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders.

The Company did not submit any matters to a vote of security holders
during the fourth quarter of fiscal year 1997.

16


PART II

ITEM 5. Market for Registrant's Common Equity and Related Stockholder Matters.

Price Range of Common Stock and Dividend Policy

The Company's Common Stock is quoted on the Nasdaq National Market under
the symbol "CLSR." Prior to the change of the Company's name on January 13,
1997, the Common Stock was traded under the symbol "TPMC." The following table
sets forth, for the periods indicated, the high and low sales price per share
of the Common Stock, as reported on the Nasdaq National Market, commencing with
the Company's initial public offering on September 25, 1996. Prior to that
date, there was no public market for the Common Stock.





High Low
---------- ----------

1996
Third Quarter (from September 25, 1996) ......... $ 8.13 $ 8.00
Fourth Quarter .................................. 17.75 5.75
1997
First Quarter ................................... $ 21.50 $ 12.50
Second Quarter .................................. 23.75 14.25
Third Quarter ................................... 38.75 18.00
Fourth Quarter .................................. 35.13 21.88


As of March 18, 1998, there were approximately 256 holders of record of
the Company's Common Stock. The Company has never declared or paid cash
dividends on its Common Stock and does not anticipate paying any cash dividends
in the foreseeable future. The Company currently intends to retain future
earnings, if any, to fund the development and growth of its business. Any
future determination to pay cash dividends will be at the discretion of the
Board of Directors and will be dependent upon the Company's financial
condition, operating results, capital requirements and such other factors as
the Board of Directors deems relevant.


Use of Proceeds from Initial Public Offering

The Company's Registration Statement on Form S-1 (Registration Statement
No. 333-5425) for the Company's initial public offering (the "IPO") of
3,000,000 shares of Common Stock, of which 2,550,000 shares were sold by the
Company, was declared effective by the Commission on September 25, 1996 (the
"Effective Date"). The net proceeds to the Company from the IPO were
approximately $17,926,000.

For the period beginning on the Effective Date through December 31, 1997,
reasonable estimates of the uses of proceeds from the IPO are as follows:





(millions)
--------------

Working capital ................................ $ 3.4
Research and development and regulatory affairs 4.6 (a)
Capital expenditures ........................... .3 (b)
Obtain and protect patents ..................... .1
------
Total .......................................... 8.4


Of the above uses of proceeds attributed to working capital, approximately
$116,000 represented direct payments to directors for annual board compensation
and meeting fees and expenses and approximately $1,276,000 represented payments
to officers of the Company for compensation. Included in the payments to
directors was approximately $38,000 to two individuals beneficially owning ten
percent of more of the Common Stock of the Company. Additionally, reflected in
the working capital is approximately $150,000 paid to a consultant who provides
services to the Company.

(a) Regulatory affairs expenses primarily consist of clinical trials expenses.

(b) Of the Company's capital expenditures of approximately $3.2 million for
this period, approximately $2.9 million has been financed through a
capital lease agreement (see "Item 7 -- Management's Discussion and
Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations -- Liquidity and
Capital Resources").


17


ITEM 6. Selected Financial Data.

The selected financial data set forth below for each year in the five year
period ended December 31, 1997 have been derived from financial statements
audited by Price Waterhouse LLP, independent accountants. The balance sheets as
of December 31, 1996 and 1997 and the related statements of operations and of
cash flows for the years ended December 31, 1995, 1996 and 1997 and notes
thereto appear elsewhere in this Annual Report. This data should be read in
conjunction with "Item 7 -- Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial
Condition and Results of Operations" and the Company's financial statements,
including the notes thereto, and the other financial information included
elsewhere in this Annual Report.





Year ended December 31,
------------------------------------------------------------
1993 1994 1995 1996 1997
----------- ----------- ----------- ------------ -----------
(In thousands, except per share data)

STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS DATA:
Product sales ...................................................... $ 1,048 $ 1,478 $ 1,380 $ 496 $ 1,551
License and product development revenues ........................... 162 25 -- 3,500 --
-------- -------- -------- --------- --------
Total revenues .................................................. 1,210 1,503 1,380 3,996 1,551
Cost of products sold .............................................. 366 528 531 460 1,398
-------- -------- -------- --------- --------
Gross profit and license and product development revenues .......... 844 975 849 3,536 153
-------- -------- -------- --------- --------
Research, development and regulatory affairs expenses .............. 863 1,231 1,637 3,167 3,594
Selling and administrative expenses ................................ 1,037 1,366 1,589 2,879 4,752
Charges related to Partnership capital changes (1) ................. -- -- 3,500 14,210 --
Payments to CRX Medical, Inc. and Caratec, L.L.C. .................. 150 150 250 293 --
-------- -------- -------- --------- --------
Total operating expenses ........................................ 2,050 2,747 6,976 20,549 8,346
-------- -------- -------- --------- --------
Loss from operations ............................................... (1,206) (1,772) (6,127) (17,013) (8,193)
Interest expense ................................................... -- -- -- -- (72)
Investment and interest income ..................................... -- 2 2 337 1,436
Interest expense to Sharpoint Development Corporation .............. (342) (445) (847) (138) --
-------- -------- -------- --------- --------
Net loss ........................................................... $ (1,548) $ (2,215) $ (6,972) $ (16,814) $ (6,829)
======== ======== ======== ========= ========
Net loss per common share -- basic and diluted (2) ................. $ (0.16) $ (0.23) $ (0.73) $ (1.63) $ (0.53)
========= ========= ========= ========= ========
Shares used in computation of net loss per common share -- basic
and diluted (2) .................................................. 9,600 9,600 9,600 10,285 12,966
========= ========= ========= ========= ========





As of December 31,
----------------------------------------------------------
1993 1994 1995 1996 1997
----------- ----------- ------------ ---------- ----------
(In thousands)

BALANCE SHEET DATA:
Cash and cash equivalents and short-term investments .............. $ 11 $ 30 $ 20 $17,651 $21,694
Working capital (deficit) ......................................... (392) (10) (395) 15,175 18,034
Total assets ...................................................... 764 784 908 19,512 30,419
Long-term debt and capital lease obligations, less current portion 5,232 7,851 10,088 14 2,400
Total partners' capital (deficit) and stockholders' equity ........ (5,163) (7,378) (10,850) 16,455 22,419


- ---------
(1) Includes for 1995 a one-time non-cash charge of $3,500,000 which
represented the estimated fair value of the limited partnership interests
of certain employee limited partners admitted to the Partnership on
December 31, 1995. Immediately prior to the Company's initial public
offering, on September 25, 1996, the Company consummated an exchange of
obligations of and interests in the Partnership for 9,600,000 shares of
Common Stock. In connection with this exchange, Caratec, L.L.C. exchanged
its right to receive various payments from the Partnership and its limited
partnership interest for 1,776,250 shares of Common Stock. This
transaction resulted in a non-cash expense for 1996 of $14,210,000 which
equaled the difference between the value of the Common Stock issued to
Caratec, L.L.C. and its basis in the Partnership. The resulting charge to
accumulated deficit was offset by a credit to additional paid-in capital.
See Note 1 to Notes to Financial Statements.

(2) See Note 2 to Notes to Financial Statements for a discussion of the basis
for reported net loss per common share.

18


ITEM 7. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results
of Operations.

The statements set forth below that are not historical facts or statements
of current conditions are forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking
statements may be identified by, among other things, the use of forward-looking
terminology such as "believes," "expects," "forecasts," "estimates," "plans,"
"continues," "may," "will," "should," "anticipates" or "intends" or the
negative thereof or other variations thereon or comparable terminology, or by
discussions of strategy or intentions. These forward-looking statements, such
as statements regarding present or anticipated scientific progress, development
of potential products, future revenues, capital expenditures and research and
development expenditures, future financings and collaborations, management,
manufacturing development and capabilities, and other statements regarding
matters that are not historical facts, involve predictions. The Company's
actual results, performance or achievements could differ materially from the
results expressed in, or implied by, these forward-looking statements.
Potential risks and uncertainties that could affect the Company's actual
results, performance or achievements include, but are not limited to, the "Risk
Factors" set forth in Item 1 of this Annual Report. Given these uncertainties,
current or prospective investors are cautioned not to place undue reliance on
any such forward-looking statements. Furthermore, the Company disclaims any
obligation or intent to update any such factors or forward-looking statements
to reflect future events or developments.

The following discussion should be read in conjunction with the Company's
financial statements, including the notes thereto, included elsewhere in this
Annual Report.


Overview

Since its inception in May 1990, the Company has been developing,
manufacturing and commercializing medical tissue cohesive products for use in
wound closure on humans and animals. The Company's products are based on its
proprietary cyanoacrylate technology, and a substantial portion of the
Company's historical expenses has consisted of research and development and
clinical trial expenses. Through the closing of the Company's initial public
offering of Common Stock on September 30, 1996, the Company funded its
operations with cash borrowed from Sharpoint Development Corporation
("Sharpoint"), sales of the Company's products and license and product
development revenues from marketing partners. On September 30, 1996, the
Company completed its initial public offering, issuing 2,550,000 shares of
Common Stock and generating net proceeds of approximately $17,926,000. On April
2, 1997, the Company completed a follow-on public offering, issuing 1,025,000
shares of Common Stock and generating net proceeds of approximately
$12,020,000.

The Company has been unprofitable since its inception and has incurred net
losses in each year, including a net loss of approximately $6,829,000 for the
year ended December 31, 1997. The Company anticipates that its recurring
operating expenses will increase for the next several years, as it expects its
research and development and selling and administrative expenses to increase in
order to develop new products, manufacture in commercial quantities and fund
additional clinical trials. The Company also expects to incur additional
capital expenditures to expand its manufacturing capabilities. The Company
expects to incur a loss in 1998 and may incur losses in subsequent years,
although the amount of future net losses and time required by the Company to
reach profitability are highly uncertain. The Company's ability to generate
significant revenue and become profitable will depend on its success in
commercializing DERMABOND, including the receipt of all regulatory clearances
and approvals, expanding its manufacturing capabilities, developing new
products and entering into additional marketing agreements and the ability of
its marketing partners to commercialize successfully products incorporating the
Company's technologies. No assurance can be given that the Company will
generate significant revenue or become profitable on a sustained basis, if at
all.

Immediately prior to the Company's initial public offering, on September
25, 1996, the Company consummated an exchange of obligations of and interests
in the Partnership for an aggregate of 9,600,000 shares of Common Stock (the
"Exchange"). As of March 29, 1996, the long-term debt of the Partnership held
by Sharpoint, including accrued interest, was contributed to the Partnership as
$11,483,000 of partners' capital. During the period from May 1990 through the
consummation of the Exchange. CRX Medical, Inc. ("CRX") and its successor,
Caratec, L.L.C. ("Caratec"), as limited partners of the Partnership, received
payments of approximately $993,000 based on net revenues pursuant to the
partnership agreement. These payment obligations ceased upon the consummation
of the Exchange. As part of the Exchange, Caratec exchanged its right to
receive payments based on net revenues and its right to receive, as a limited
partner in the Partnership, a percentage of the proceeds of a sale of all or
substantially all of the assets of the Partnership for 1,776,250 shares of
Common Stock. This transaction resulted in a one-time non-cash charge of
$14,210,000 which equaled the difference between the value of the Common Stock
issued to Caratec and its basis in the Partnership. The resulting charge to
accumulated deficit was offset by a credit to additional paid-in capital.


19


Historically, there was no provision for federal or state income taxes in
the financial statements of the Company's predecessor, Tri-Point Medical L.P.,
because income or loss generated by the Partnership was included by the
partners in their personal income tax returns. Since the Company's
incorporation on February 20, 1996, the Company has been subject to federal and
state corporate income taxes, but none have been paid due to losses generated
for tax purposes.

The Company was formed on February 20, 1996 and substantially all of the
assets of the Partnership were transferred to the Company as of March 1, 1996.
The net operating losses to March 1, 1996 will not be available to the Company
to offset any future taxable income for federal income tax purposes because it
was a partnership for that period.

The Company incurred compensation expense of $500,000 and $304,000 for the
years ended December 31, 1996 and 1997, respectively, in connection with
options for Common Stock granted to employees, consultants and directors
because such options had a weighted average exercise price of $2.73 per share
below the fair market value of the Common Stock. Such expense will be
approximately $304,000 per year in the next two years and $88,000 in the
subsequent year as the options vest. Such expense could increase during a given
year if the vesting of options were to accelerate upon the occurrence of
certain events.


Results of Operations

Year Ended December 31, 1997 Compared to Year Ended December 31, 1996

Total revenues for 1997 decreased 61% to $1,551,000 from $3,996,000 for
1996. This decrease was primarily the result of the receipt of $3,500,000 in
March 1996 in license and product development revenues under the supply and
distribution agreement for DERMABOND. Product sales increased to $1,551,000 for
1997 from $496,000 for 1996.

Cost of products sold for 1997 increased to $1,398,000 from $460,000 for
1996. Cost of products sold as a percentage of product sales decreased to 90%
for 1997 from 93% for 1996. This decrease in cost of products sold as a
percentage of product sales was primarily a result of the increased sales
volume of DERMABOND, Nexaband and Octyldent, resulting in the fixed portion of
cost of products sold being allocated over higher sales.

Operating expenses for 1997 decreased to $8,346,000 from $20,549,000 for
1996. Included in operating expenses for 1996 was a one-time non-cash charge of
$14,210,000 related to the exchange by Caratec, a former limited partner of the
Company's predecessor, Tri-Point Medical L.P., of its right to receive various
payments from the Partnership and its limited partnership interest for Common
Stock of the Company. Excluding this non-cash charge, total operating expenses
for 1996 were $6,339,000 compared to $8,346,000 for 1997, representing a 32%
increase for 1997. This increase was primarily attributable to the addition of
personnel in research and development, new business generation and
administrative departments reflecting the growth of the Company. In addition,
in 1997 the Company incurred additional administrative costs associated with
supporting a public company, such as directors' and officers' liability
insurance, investor relations and other professional fees. These increases were
offset by decreases in costs associated with the conduct of clinical trials for
DERMABOND.

Interest expense for 1997 was $72,000 as a result of debt incurred during
the year associated with a new lease line and a term loan entered into during
March and November 1997, respectively. See " -- Liquidity and Capital
Resources."

Investment and interest income for 1997 increased to $1,436,000 from
$337,000 in 1996. This increase was a result of interest earned from higher
average cash and investment balances resulting from the proceeds of the
Company's public offerings in September 1996 and April 1997.


Year Ended December 31, 1996 Compared to Year Ended December 31, 1995

Total revenues were $3,996,000 for 1996 compared to $1,380,000 for 1995.
This increase resulted from the receipt of $3,500,000 in March 1996 in license
and product development revenues under the supply and distribution agreement
for DERMABOND. Product sales decreased to $496,000 for 1996 from $1,380,000 for
1995. This decrease was attributable to decreased sales volume of Octyldent as
a result of the inventory build-up by the Company's marketing partner during
1995.

Cost of products sold for 1996 decreased to $460,000 from $531,000 for
1995. Cost of products sold as a percentage of product sales increased to 93%
for 1996 from 38% for 1995. This increase in cost of products sold as a
percentage of product sales was primarily a result of the decreased sales
volume of Octyldent, resulting in the fixed portion of cost of products sold
being allocated over lower sales, and additional costs associated with the
expansion of the Company's manufacturing capabilities in anticipation of future
DERMABOND production.


20


Operating expenses for 1996 increased to $20,549,000 from $6,976,000 for
1995. Included in operating expenses for 1996 was a one-time non-cash charge of
$14,210,000 described above. Included in operating expenses for 1995 was a one-
time non-cash charge of $3,500,000 representing the estimated fair value of the
partnership interest of certain employee limited partners admitted into the
Partnership on December 31, 1995. Excluding these non-cash charges, total
operating expenses increased 82% to $6,339,000 for 1996 from $3,476,000 for
1995. These increases related to costs associated with the conduct of clinical
trials for DERMABOND, financial advisory and professional fees and the
amortization of deferred compensation related to employee and director stock
options.

Interest expense for 1996 decreased 84% to $138,000 compared to $847,000
for 1995. This decrease was primarily a result of the related debt being
converted to capital as of March 29, 1996.

Investment and interest income for 1996 increased to $337,000 from $2,000
in 1995. This increase was a result of interest earned from higher average cash
and investment balances resulting from the proceeds of the Company's initial
public offering.


Liquidity and Capital Resources

The Company has financed its operations to date primarily through the sale
of equity securities, borrowings from Sharpoint and other lenders, license and
product development revenues and product sales. Through December 31, 1997, the
Company has raised approximately $30.0 million in equity financing. Through
March 29, 1996, the Partnership had borrowed approximately $9,571,000 from
Sharpoint, which excludes accrued interest of $931,000 converted to long-term
debt on December 31, 1994. As of March 29, 1996, all such long-term debt,
including accrued interest, was contributed as partners' capital to the
Partnership. During 1997, the Company entered into and received approximately
$3.0 million from a new lease line and a term loan. Subsequently, in February
1998, the Company received an additional $1.5 million under its $3.0 million
term loan, representing the balance issuable under the term loan. In addition,
the Company received $5.5 million related to the supply and distribution
agreement for DERMABOND entered into with Ethicon in March 1996, of which $2.0
million has been classified as deferred revenue and will be credited against
future royalties and product purchases expected to be paid by Ethicon.

Cash used by operating activities was $5,585,000 for 1997 as compared to
cash provided by operating activities of $287,000 during 1996. Operating
activities used cash of $2,113,000 during 1995. These changes in cash from
operations were primarily due to the receipt during 1996 of $3,500,000 from
Ethicon under the supply and distribution agreement for DERMABOND.

Cash used for investing activities was $14,052,000 during 1997, up from
$5,637,000 and $104,000 for 1996 and 1995, respectively. These increases in
1997 and 1996 were primarily to purchase investments, acquire capital equipment
and to obtain and establish patents. During 1995, cash was used primarily to
acquire capital equipment.

Cash provided by financing activities was $13,890,000 and $18,354,000 for
1997 and 1996, respectively. The Company's primary financing activities during
these periods were the Company's public offerings. In addition, the Company has
commitments from lenders, including an equipment lease line and a term loan, to
borrow up to $4.5 million for equipment financing and leasehold improvements.
As of December 31, 1997, the Company had borrowed approximately $3.0 million
under these agreements.

The Company believes that existing cash and cash equivalents and
short-term investments, which totaled $21.7 million as of December 31, 1997,
will be sufficient to finance its capital requirements for at least 18 months.
The Company expects to incur a loss in 1998 and may incur losses in subsequent
years, although the amount of future net losses and time required by the
Company to reach profitability are highly uncertain. The Company anticipates
that its recurring operating expenses will increase for the next several years,
as it expects its research and development and selling and administrative
expenses to increase in order to develop new products, manufacture in
commercial quantities and fund additional clinical trials. The Company also
expects to incur additional capital expenditures to expand its manufacturing
capabilities.

The Company's future capital requirements, however, will depend on
numerous factors, including (i) the Company's ability to manufacture and
commercialize successfully its lead product, DERMABOND, (ii) the progress of
its research and product development programs for future nonabsorbable and
absorbable products, including clinical studies, (iii) the effectiveness of
product commercialization activities and marketing agreements for its future
products, including additional scale-up of manufacturing capability in
anticipation of product commercialization and development and progress of sales
and marketing efforts, (iv) the ability of the Company to maintain existing
marketing agreements, including its agreement with Ethicon for DERMABOND, and
establish and maintain new marketing agreements, (v) the costs involved in
preparing,


21


filing, prosecuting, defending and enforcing intellectual property rights and
complying with regulatory requirements, (vi) the effect of competing
technological and market developments and (vii) general economic conditions.
There can be no assurance that the Company will not be required to seek
additional capital to finance its operations in the future. If the Company's
currently available funds and internally generated cash flow are not sufficient
to satisfy its financing needs, the Company will be required to seek additional
funding through bank borrowings and additional public or private sales of its
securities, including equity securities, or through other arrangements with
marketing partners. Other than the Company's equipment financing line of credit
and term loan, the Company has no credit facility or other committed sources of
capital. There can be no assurance that additional funds, if required, will be
available to the Company on favorable terms, if at all. See "Risk Factors --
Future Capital Needs and Uncertainty of Additional Financing."

The Company is aware of the issues associated with the year 2000 situation
in existing computer systems and continues to evaluate appropriate courses of
corrective actions, if any. The Company believes that the year 2000 issue will
not significantly impact the financial position of the Company or pose
significant operational problems.


ITEM 8. Financial Statements.

The financial statements of the Company required by this item are attached
to this Annual Report beginning on page F-1.


ITEM 9. Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and
Financial Disclosures.

None.

22


PART III

ITEM 10. Directors and Executive Officers of the Registrant.

The information required by this item concerning directors and compliance
with Section 16(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, is
incorporated herein by reference to the Company's definitive 1998 Proxy
Statement to be filed with the Commission not later than 120 days after the end
of the fiscal year ended December 31, 1997. The required information as to
executive officers is set forth in Part I hereof and incorporated herein by
reference.


ITEM 11. Executive Compensation.

The information required by this item is incorporated herein by reference
to the Company's definitive 1998 Proxy Statement to be filed with the
Commission not later than 120 days after the end of the fiscal year ended
December 31, 1997.


ITEM 12. Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management.

The information required by this item is incorporated herein by reference
to the Company's definitive 1998 Proxy Statement to be filed with the
Commission not later than 120 days after the end of the fiscal year ended
December 31, 1997.


ITEM 13. Certain Relationships and Related Transactions.

The information required by this item is incorporated herein by reference
to the Company's definitive 1998 Proxy Statement to be filed with the
Commission not later than 120 days after the end of the fiscal year ended
December 31, 1997.


23


PART IV

ITEM 14. Exhibits, Financial Statement Schedules, and Reports on Form 8-K.

(a) 1. Financial Statements.

The financial statements listed in the accompanying Index to Financial
Statements at page F-1 are filed as part of this Annual Report.


2. Financial Statement Schedules.

All financial statement schedules have been omitted because they are not
applicable, or not required, or the information is shown in the financial
statements or notes thereto.


3. Exhibits. (See (c) below)


(b) Reports on Form 8-K

The Company did not file a report on Form 8-K during the quarter ended
December 31, 1997.


(c) Exhibits.

The following is a list of exhibits filed as part of this Annual Report.
Where so indicated by footnote, exhibits which were previously filed are
incorporated by reference. For exhibits incorporated by reference, the location
of the exhibit in the previous filing is indicated in parentheses.





Exhibit
Number Description
- ---------------------- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

3.1 Restated Certificate of Incorporation. (Exhibit 3.1)(1)
3.2 Amendment to Restated Certificate of Incorporation. (Exhibit 3.2)(2)
3.3 By-Laws. (Exhibit 3.2)(1)
10.1 Office-Warehouse Lease Agreement, dated as of November 7, 1995, between AP Southeast Portfolio
Partners, L.P. and the Company. (Exhibit 10.1)(1)
10.2 + Supply and Distribution Rights Agreement, dated as of March 20, 1996, between Ethicon, Inc. and the
Company. (Exhibit 10.8)(1)
10.3(double dagger)* Amended and Restated 1996 Equity Compensation Plan of the Company.
10.4(double dagger) Employment Agreement, dated as of May 31, 1996, between Robert V. Toni and the Company.
(Exhibit 10.10)(1)
10.5(double dagger) Employment Agreement, dated as of May 31, 1996, between J. Blount Swain and the Company.
(Exhibit 10.11)(1)
10.6(double dagger) Employment Agreement, dated as of May 31, 1996, between Jeffrey G. Clark and the Company.
(Exhibit 10.12)(1)
10.7(double dagger) Employment Agreement, dated as of May 31, 1996, between Joe B. Barefoot and the Company.
(Exhibit 10.13)(1)
10.8(double dagger) Consulting Agreement, dated as of May 31, 1996, between Steven A. Kriegsman and the Company.
(Exhibit 10.14)(1)
10.9 Registration Rights Agreement, dated as of May 31, 1996, between Caratec, L.L.C. and the Company.
(Exhibit 10.15)(1)
10.10 Registration Rights Agreement, dated as of May 31, 1996, among Cacoosing Partners, L.P., OMI
Partners, L.P., Triangle Partners, L.P., F. William Schmidt, Rolf D. Schmidt, Robert V. Toni, J. Blount
Swain, Jeffrey G. Clark, Joe B. Barefoot and the Company. (Exhibit 10.16)(1)
10.11 Contribution and Exchange Agreement, dated as of May 31, 1996, among Cacoosing Partners, L.P.,
OMI Partners, L.P., Triangle Partners, L.P., F. William Schmidt, Rolf D. Schmidt, Caratec, L.L.C.,
Robert V. Toni, J. Blount Swain, Jeffrey G. Clark, Joe B. Barefoot, Jeffery C. Basham,
Jeffrey C. Leung, Anthony V. Seaber and the Company. (Exhibit 10.17)(1)
10.12 Amendment, dated June 18, 1996, to Office-Warehouse Lease Agreement, dated as of November 7,
1995, between AP Southeast Portfolio Partners, L.P. and the Company. (Exhibit 10.18)(1)
10.13 Lease, dated February 14, 1997, between AP Southeast Portfolio Partners, L.P. and the Company.
(Exhibit 10.19)(2)
10.14 Master Lease Agreement, dated as of January 29, 1997, between Transamerica Business Credit
Corporation and the Company. (Exhibit 10.20)(2)
10.15 * Loan Agreement, dated November 14, 1997, between NationsBank, N.A. and the Company.
10.16 * Promissory Note, dated November 14, 1997, issued by the Company to NationsBank, N.A.


24





Exhibit
Number Description
- ------------------------- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

10.17* Security Agreement, dated November 14, 1997, between the Company and NationsBank, N.A.
10.18* Pledge Agreement, dated November 14, 1997, between the Company and NationsBank N.A.
10.19(double dagger)* Employment Agreement, dated as of June 9, 1997, between William M. Cotter and the Company.
10.20(double dagger)* Employment Agreement, dated as of January 1, 1998, between Anthony J. Sherbondy and the
Company.
10.21(double dagger)* Employment Agreement, dated as of February 18, 1998, between Dennis D. Burns and the Company.
10.22* Amendment, dated August 15, 1997, to Lease, dated February 14, 1997, between AP Southeast
Portfolio Partners, L.P. and the Company.
10.23* Representative and Manufacturing Facility Agreement, dated January 1, 1998, between Innocoll GmbH
and the Company.
11* Statement re: Computation of Per Share Earnings.
23.1* Consent of Price Waterhouse LLP.
24.1* Power of Attorney (included on signature page to this Annual Report).
27* Financial Data Schedule.


- ---------
* Filed herewith.

+ Portions of this exhibit were omitted and filed separately with the
Secretary of the Commission pursuant to an order of the Commission granting
the Company's application for confidential treatment filed pursuant to Rule
406 under the Securities Act.

(double dagger) Compensation plans and arrangements for executives and
others.

(1) Filed as an exhibit to the Company's Registration Statement on Form S-1
(Registration No. 333-5425) filed with the Commission on June 7, 1996, as
amended, and incorporated herein by reference.

(2) Filed as an exhibit to the Company's Registration Statement on Form S-1
(Registration No. 333-22981) filed with the Commission on March 7, 1997,
and incorporated herein by reference.


(d) Financial Statement Schedules.

None.

25


CLOSURE MEDICAL CORPORATION

INDEX TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS






Page
-----

Report of Independent Accountants ............................................ F-2
Financial Statements:
Balance Sheet as of December 31, 1996 and 1997 .............................. F-3
Statement of Operations for the years ended December 31, 1995, 1996 and 1997 F-4
Statement of Cash Flows for the years ended December 31, 1995, 1996 and 1997 F-5
Statement of Partners' Deficit and Stockholders' Equity for the years ended
December 31, 1995, 1996 and 1997 .......................................... F-6
Notes to Financial Statements ............................................... F-7




F-1


Report of Independent Accountants



To the Board of Directors
and Stockholders of
Closure Medical Corporation



In our opinion, the accompanying balance sheet and the related statements of
operations, of cash flows and partners' deficit and stockholders' equity
present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Closure
Medical Corporation (the "Company") at December 31, 1996 and 1997, and the
results of its operations and its cash flows for each of the three years in the
period ended December 31, 1997, in conformity with generally accepted
accounting principles. These financial statements are the responsibility of the
Company's management; our responsibility is to express an opinion on these
financial statements based on our audits. We conducted our audits of these
statements in accordance with generally accepted auditing standards which
require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about
whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit
includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and
disclosures in the financial statements, assessing the accounting principles
used and significant estimates made by management, and evaluating the overall
financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a
reasonable basis for the opinion expressed above.




PRICE WATERHOUSE LLP
Raleigh, North Carolina
January 29, 1998

F-2


CLOSURE MEDICAL CORPORATION


BALANCE SHEET


(In thousands, except per share data)





December 31,
-------------------------
1996 1997
------------ ------------

Assets
Cash and cash equivalents ............................................... $ 13,024 $ 7,277
Short-term investments .................................................. 4,627 14,417
Accounts receivable ..................................................... 67 1,226
Inventories ............................................................. 112 347
Prepaid expenses ........................................................ 388 367
--------- ---------
Total current assets ................................................... 18,218 23,634
Furniture, fixtures and equipment, net .................................. 672 3,694
Restricted investments .................................................. -- 1,517
Long-term investments ................................................... 409 1,298
Intangible assets, net .................................................. 213 276
--------- ---------
Total assets ........................................................... $ 19,512 $ 30,419
========= =========
Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity
Accounts payable ........................................................ $ 566 $ 478
Accrued expenses ........................................................ 396 2,598
Deferred revenue ........................................................ 2,069 2,019
Capital lease obligations ............................................... 12 155
Current portion of long-term debt ....................................... -- 350
--------- ---------
Total current liabilities .............................................. 3,043 5,600
Capital lease obligations ............................................... 14 1,250
Long-term debt less current portion ..................................... -- 1,150
--------- ---------
Total liabilities ...................................................... 3,057 8,000
--------- ---------
Preferred Stock, $.01 par value. Authorized 2,000 shares; none issued
or outstanding ......................................................... -- --
Common Stock, $.01 par value. Authorized 35,000 shares; issued and
outstanding 12,150 and 13,242 shares, respectively ..................... 122 132
Additional paid-in capital .............................................. 33,579 46,058
Accumulated deficit ..................................................... (16,246) (23,075)
Deferred compensation on stock options .................................. (1,000) (696)
--------- ---------
Total stockholders' equity ............................................. 16,455 22,419
--------- ---------
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity ............................. $ 19,512 $ 30,419
========= =========


The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.


F-3


CLOSURE MEDICAL CORPORATION


STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS


(In thousands, except per share data)





Year Ended December 31,
------------------------------------
1995 1996 1997
----------- ------------ -----------

Product sales .................................................................... $ 1,380 $ 496 $ 1,551
License and product development revenues ......................................... -- 3,500 --
-------- --------- --------
Total revenues .................................................................. 1,380 3,996 1,551
Cost of products sold ............................................................ 531 460 1,398
-------- --------- --------
Gross profit and license and product development revenues ....................... 849 3,536 153
-------- --------- --------
Research, development and regulatory affairs expenses ............................ 1,637 3,167 3,594
Selling and administrative expenses .............................................. 1,589 2,879 4,752
Charges related to partnership capital changes ................................... 3,500 14,210 --
Payments to Caratec, L.L.C. ...................................................... 250 293 --
-------- --------- --------
Total operating expenses ........................................................ 6,976 20,549 8,346
-------- --------- --------
Loss from operations ............................................................. (6,127) (17,013) (8,193)
Interest expense ................................................................. -- -- (72)
Investment and interest income ................................................... 2 337 1,436
Interest expense to Sharpoint Development Corporation ............................ (847) (138) --
-------- --------- --------
Net loss ......................................................................... $ (6,972) $ (16,814) $ (6,829)
======== ========= ========
Shares used in computation of net loss per common share -- basic and diluted ..... 9,600 10,285 12,966
Net loss per common share -- basic and diluted ................................... $ (0.73) $ (1.63) $ (0.53)


The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.


F-4


CLOSURE MEDICAL CORPORATION


STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS


(In thousands)





Year Ended
December 31,
--------------
1995
--------------

Cash flows from operating activities:
Net loss ................................................................................. $(6,972)
Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash provided (used) by operating activities:
Amortization expense ..................................................................... 31
Depreciation expense ..................................................................... 51
Changes related to partnership capital changes ........................................... 3,500
Amortization of deferred compensation on stock options ................................... --
Net loss on disposals of fixed assets .................................................... 55
Net loss on disposals of intangible assets ............................................... 14
Change in accounts receivable ............................................................ (137)
Change in inventories .................................................................... --
Change in prepaid expenses ............................................................... (4)
Change in accounts payable and accrued expenses .......................................... 303
Change in deferred revenue ............................................................... 78
Change in accrued payable to Caratec, L.L.C. ............................................. 125
Change in accrued interest due to Sharpoint Development Corporation ...................... 843
---------
Net cash provided (used) by operating activities ......................................... (2,113)
---------
Cash flows from investing activities:
Additions to furniture, fixtures and equipment ........................................... (57)
Additions to intangible assets ........................................................... (47)
Purchases of investments ................................................................. --
Proceeds from the sale of investments .................................................... --
---------
Net cash used by investing activities .................................................... (104)
---------
Cash flows from financing activities:
Proceeds from notes payable to Sharpoint Development Corporation ......................... 2,216
Proceeds from borrowings ................................................................. --
Net proceeds from sale of common stock ................................................... --
Payments under capital lease obligations ................................................. (9)
----------
Net cash provided by financing activities ................................................ 2,207
---------
Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents ......................................... (10)
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of year ............................................. 30
---------
Cash and cash equivalents, end of year ................................................... $ 20
=========




Year Ended December 31,
--------------------------
1996 1997
------------- ------------

Cash flows from operating activities:
Net loss ................................................................................. $ (16,814) $ (6,829)
Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash provided (used) by operating activities:
Amortization expense ..................................................................... 11 11
Depreciation expense ..................................................................... 85 184
Changes related to partnership capital changes ........................................... 14,210 --
Amortization of deferred compensation on stock options ................................... 500 304
Net loss on disposals of fixed assets .................................................... 38 4
Net loss on disposals of intangible assets ............................................... 58 50
Change in accounts receivable ............................................................ 199 (1,159)
Change in inventories .................................................................... 7 (235)
Change in prepaid expenses ............................................................... (361) 21
Change in accounts payable and accrued expenses .......................................... 420 2,114
Change in deferred revenue ............................................................... 1,991 (50)
Change in accrued payable to Caratec, L.L.C. ............................................. (195) --
Change in accrued interest due to Sharpoint Development Corporation ...................... 138 --
--------- ---------
Net cash provided (used) by operating activities ......................................... 287 (5,585)
--------- ---------
Cash flows from investing activities:
Additions to furniture, fixtures and equipment ........................................... (519) (1,732)
Additions to intangible assets ........................................................... (82) (124)
Purchases of investments ................................................................. (5,494) (33,369)
Proceeds from the sale of investments .................................................... 458 21,173
--------- ---------
Net cash used by investing activities .................................................... (5,637) (14,052)
--------- ---------
Cash flows from financing activities:
Proceeds from notes payable to Sharpoint Development Corporation ......................... 440 --
Proceeds from borrowings ................................................................. -- 1,500
Net proceeds from sale of common stock ................................................... 17,926 12,489
Payments under capital lease obligations ................................................. (12) (99)
--------- ---------
Net cash provided by financing activities ................................................ 18,354 13,890
--------- ---------
Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents ......................................... 13,004 (5,747)
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of year ............................................. 20 13,024
--------- ---------
Cash and cash equivalents, end of year ................................................... $ 13,024 $ 7,277
========= =========


Non-Cash Transactions:

On December 31, 1995, the partnership agreement was amended to admit a new
class of limited partners. The fair value of the partnership interest was
reflected as a contribution of partners' capital.
On March 29, 1996, notes payable of $10,502 and related accrued interest of
$981 was converted to partners' capital.
Cash payments for interest expense during 1997 were approximately $68.
Property, plant and equipment acquired under capital lease was approximately
$1,478.


The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

F-5


CLOSURE MEDICAL CORPORATION


STATEMENT OF PARTNERS' DEFICIT AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY


Years Ended December 31, 1995, 1996 and 1997


(In thousands)





Deferred
Partners' Additional Compensation Total
Capital Common Stock Paid-in Accumulated on Stock Stockholders'
(deficit) Shares Amount Capital deficit Options Equity
----------- -------- -------- ----------- ------------- -------------- --------------

Balance at December 31, 1994 ....... $ (7,378) $ (7,378)
Capital contribution ............... 3,500 3,500
Net loss ........................... (6,972) (6,972)
--------- ---------
Balance at December 31, 1995 ....... (10,850) (10,850)
Conversion of debt and accrued
interest to partners' capital ..... 11,483 11,483
Net loss for the period January 1,
1996 through September 25,
1996 .............................. (568) (568)
Conversion of partners' capital to
common stock ...................... (65) 9,600 $ 96 $14,179 14,210
Issuance of common stock, net of
issuance costs of $1,046........... 2,550 26 17,900 17,926
Grant of compensatory stock
options ........................... 1,500 $ (1,500)
Amortization of deferred compen-
sation on stock options ........... 500 500
Net loss for the period September
26, 1996 through December 31,
1996 .............................. $ (16,246) (16,246)
--------- ---------
Balance at December 31, 1996 ....... 12,150 122 33,579 (16,246) (1,000) 16,455
Issuance of common stock, net of
issuance costs of $1,737........... 1,025 10 12,010 12,020
Amortization of deferred compen-
sation on stock options ........... 304 304
Exercise of stock options .......... 67 469 469
Net loss ........................... (6,829) (6,829)
--------- ---------
Balance at December 31, 1997 ....... $ 13,242 $132 $46,058 $ (23,075) $ (696) $ 22,419
========= ====== ==== ======= ========= ========= =========


The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

F-6


CLOSURE MEDICAL CORPORATION

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS


Years Ended December 31, 1995, 1996 and 1997


1. ORGANIZATION AND OPERATIONS

Closure Medical Corporation (the "Company" or "Closure"), formerly named
Tri-Point Medical Corporation, develops, commercializes and manufactures
medical tissue cohesive products based on its proprietary cyanoacrylate
technology to be used for human and veterinary wound closure. The Company was
incorporated in Delaware on February 20, 1996. From May 10, 1990 to February
29, 1996, the business of the Company was conducted by its predecessor,
Tri-Point Medical, L.P. (the "Partnership"). Unless the context otherwise
requires, references herein to the Company or Closure also include the
Partnership. The Partnership purchased the assets and product technology of
Caratec, L.L.C. ("Caratec"), formerly CRX Medical, Inc., in 1990 for $700,000
and a limited partnership interest. Sharpoint Development Corporation
("Sharpoint"), the general partner, contributed $350,000 in cash for its
general partner interest. Caratec contributed $1,000 for its limited
partnership interest. The partnership agreement required that a percentage of
the proceeds received by the Partnership or its successors upon the sale of all
or substantially all of the net assets of the Partnership or its successors be
paid to Caratec. The partnership agreement also stipulated that Caratec receive
payments based on net sales volume and gross margin, subject to annual minimum
amounts.

On December 31, 1995, the partnership agreement was amended to admit
certain employee limited partners as a new class of limited partners who were
entitled to receive 28.5% of Partnership income after payments to Caratec. The
general partner received the remainder of the income and all losses of the
Partnership. For financial statement purposes, compensation expense and
contributed capital in the amount of $3,500,000 were recognized as of December
31, 1995 representing the estimated fair value of the Partnership interest
granted to the employee limited partners.

As of March 1, 1996, substantially all of the assets and liabilities of
the Partnership, except for the indebtedness to Sharpoint, were transferred to
the Company in exchange for one share of Common Stock. Subsequently, on March
29, 1996, notes payable and related accrued interest to Sharpoint in the
amounts of $10,502,000 and $981,000, respectively, were contributed to
partners' capital.

On May 31, 1996, a contribution and exchange agreement was executed
whereby Sharpoint, assignees of Sharpoint's economic interest in the
Partnership, Caratec and the employee limited partners agreed to exchange their
Partnership interests for 5,453,750, 1,776,250 and 2,370,000 shares of Common
Stock of the Company, respectively, upon the completion of an initial public
offering by the Company. The exchange (the "Exchange") was consummated on
September 25, 1996, the effective date of the registration statement filed in
connection with the Company's initial public offering of Common Stock (the
"IPO"). In conjunction with the issuance to Caratec of Common Stock of the
Company in the Exchange, Caratec surrendered its rights to receive a percentage
of sales-based payments and a percentage of capital transaction proceeds. The
Company recorded a non-cash expense related to this issuance of $14,210,000
which was offset by a credit to additional paid-in-capital.

On September 30, 1996, the Company sold 2,550,000 shares of Common Stock
in its IPO. On April 2, 1997, the Company completed a public offering selling
1,025,000 shares of Common Stock. The net proceeds from the IPO and follow-on
offering, approximately $17.9 million and $12.0 million, respectively, have
been and will continue to be used primarily for capital expenditures related to
laboratories, office space and manufacturing facilities, research and
development, including clinical trials, working capital and general corporate
purposes.


2. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES


Cash and Cash Equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents represent cash in banks and short-term
investments having an original maturity of less than three months.


Investments

Investments consist of short-term money market funds, commercial paper and
U.S. Government securities having maturities as of the purchase date greater
than three months but less than or equal to one year. Long-term investments
have maturities greater than one year. Such investments have been classified as
available for sale securities. Restricted investments


F-7


CLOSURE MEDICAL CORPORATION

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS -- Continued

2. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES -- Continued

serve as collateral securing the Company's outstanding debt. The fair market
value, based on quoted market prices, of all investments approximates amortized
cost.


Inventories

Inventories are stated at the lower of cost (first-in, first-out) or
market.


Furniture, Fixtures and Equipment

Furniture, fixtures and equipment are stated at cost. Depreciation expense
is computed using the straight-line method over estimated useful lives ranging
between three and ten years. Expenditures for repairs and maintenance are
charged to expense as incurred.


Intangible Assets

Costs incurred to secure patents are capitalized until either the related
patent is accepted, in which case they are amortized over the shorter of its
remaining economic or useful life, or it is rejected, in which case they are
written off.


Revenue Recognition

Revenues from product sales are recognized upon shipment. Advance payments
related to future sales of product or future royalties due on these sales are
deferred and will be recorded as revenue as they are earned over future
periods.

The Company recognizes revenue for sales of DERMABOND to its marketing
partner, Ethicon, Inc. ("Ethicon"), at an agreed-upon amount per unit at the
time the products are shipped. Thirty days after the end of each calendar
quarter, ninety days for foreign sales, Ethicon provides a summary of its sales
of DERMABOND, and at that time the Company recognizes the effect of both an
additional royalty and any purchase price adjustment to its previously
recognized sales revenue.

Revenues from customers representing 10% or more of total revenue during
fiscal 1995, 1996 and 1997 were as follows:






Customer 1995 1996 1997
- ---------- ------ ------ -----

A 73% 3% 13%
B 0% 0% 53%
C 27% 10% 34%


During 1997, approximately 95 percent of the Company's revenues were from
domestic sales; the remaining 5 percent was earned from the Western European
market.


Income Taxes

Income taxes are computed using the asset and liability approach that
requires the recognition of deferred tax assets and liabilities for the
expected future tax consequences of events that have been recognized in the
Company's financial statements or tax returns. In estimating future tax
consequences, the Company generally considers all expected future events other
than enactment of changes in tax law or rates. If it is "more likely than not"
that some portion or all of a deferred asset will not be realized, a valuation
allowance is recorded.

No provision for federal or state income taxes was necessary in the
financial statements of the Partnership for the year ended December 31, 1995 or
the two months ended February 29, 1996 because, as a partnership, it was not
subject to federal or state income taxes and the tax effect of its activities
accrued to the partners.

The tax returns of the Partnership are subject to examination by federal
and state tax authorities. If such examinations occur and result in changes
with respect to the Partnership's qualification or to distributable Partnership
income or loss, the tax liability of the respective partners would be changed
accordingly.


F-8


CLOSURE MEDICAL CORPORATION

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS -- Continued

2. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES -- Continued

Significant differences between the Partnership's financial statement
basis and the tax basis are as follows:

The financial statement basis loss exceeds the tax basis loss by
approximately $3,900,000 for the year ended December 31, 1995, which is
primarily due to the non-deductibility of certain expenses for tax
purposes. Approximately $960,000 of expenses included in December 31,
1996 amounts were recognized on the Partnership's 1996 tax return.

The Partnership's net assets on a tax basis exceed those reported under
the financial statement basis by approximately $200,000 at December 31,
1995. The difference can be attributed to temporary tax deduction
differences.

The partners' capital account in total is the same for both financial
statement and tax reporting.


Use of Estimates

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally
accepted accounting principles requires management to make estimates and
assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and
disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial
statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the
reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.


Related Parties

The Partnership had notes payable to its general partner, Sharpoint, until
March 29, 1996. Details of the debt agreements are summarized in Note 5.

Beginning in 1992 until the Partnership ceased to exist on September 25,
1996, Caratec, a limited partner, received payments of 4% of adjusted net sales
of veterinary products. Caratec also received a minimum of 2% and a maximum of
8% of adjusted net sales of human products depending on the gross margin on
those sales. For 1995 and 1996, such payments to Caratec were not to be less
than $250,000. Upon the effectiveness of the Company's IPO on September 25,
1996, Caratec surrendered its rights to receive these sales-based payments and
a percentage of capital transaction proceeds in accordance with the
contribution and exchange agreement entered into on May 31, 1996, whereby
Caratec agreed to exchange its Partnership interests for 1,776,250 shares of
Common Stock of the Company.

For tax purposes, Caratec was allocated net income up to the amount of
payments received as described above. The general partner and employee limited
partners were allocated the remainder of any net income after allocation to
Caratec. The general partner was allocated 100% of all losses.

During 1995, the Partnership paid a consulting fee to an individual who is
also a shareholder of Caratec amounting to $21,000. No such fee was paid in
1996 and 1997.


Fair Value of Financial Instruments

The estimated fair value of financial instruments approximates the
financial statement carrying value at December 31, 1996 and 1997.


Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation

Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 123, "Accounting for
Stock-Based Compensation" ("SFAS 123"), was issued in October 1995. SFAS 123
gives companies the option to adopt the fair value method for expense
recognition of employee stock options and stock-based awards or, as the Company
has elected, to continue to account for such items using the intrinsic value
method as outlined under Accounting Principles Board ("APB") Opinion No. 25,
"Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees." Consequently, the adoption of SFAS
123 does not have any impact on the financial position or results of operations
of the Company but pro forma disclosures of net income and net income per
common share have been provided in Note 9 as if the fair value method had been
applied.


F-9


CLOSURE MEDICAL CORPORATION

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS -- Continued

2. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES -- Continued


Recently Issued Accounting Standards

Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 128, "Accounting for
Earnings Per Share" ("EPS") ("SFAS 128"), was issued in February 1997. SFAS 128
establishes and simplifies the standards for computing earnings per share
previously found in APB Opinion No. 15, "Earnings Per Share," and makes them
comparable to international EPS standards. The Company adopted SFAS 128
effective December 31, 1997; the adoption of this statement did not have a
material impact on its financial position or results of operations and, as
required, prior periods have been retroactively restated.

Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 130, "Reporting
Comprehensive Income" ("SFAS 130"), was issued in June 1997. SFAS 130
establishes standards for reporting and display of comprehensive income and its
components in a full set of general-purpose financial statements. The Company
will adopt SFAS 130 in 1998 and believes it will not have a material impact on
the Company's financial position or results of operations.

Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 131, "Disclosures About
Segments of an Enterprise and Related Information" ("SFAS 131"), was issued in
June 1997. SFAS 131 specifies revised guidelines for determining an entity's
operating segments and the type and level of financial information to be
disclosed. The Company will adopt SFAS 131 in 1998 and believes it will not
have a material impact on the Company's financial position or results of
operations.


Net Loss Per Share

Basic net loss per common share is computed using the weighted average
number of shares of common stock outstanding during the period.

Diluted net loss per common share is computed using the weighted average
number of shares of common and common equivalent shares outstanding during the
period. Common equivalent shares consist of stock options using the treasury
stock method. Common equivalent shares from stock options are excluded from the
computation if their effect is antidilutive.

Pursuant to the requirements of SFAS 128, the effect of the exchange of
Partnership interests for 9,600,000 shares of Common Stock of the Company has
been included in net loss per common share computations from January 1, 1995
through the effective date of the Company's IPO on September 25, 1996.


3. ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE

Accounts receivable included the following:




December 31,
----------------
1996 1997
------ ---------
(in thousands)

Trade ................................ $67 $ 341
Other--Tenant Allowance Reimbursement -- 885
--- ------
$67 $1,226
=== ======



F-10


CLOSURE MEDICAL CORPORATION
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS -- Continued


4. FURNITURE, FIXTURES AND EQUIPMENT

Furniture, fixtures and equipment included the following:




December 31,
-------------------
1996 1997
--------- ---------
(in thousands)

Furniture and equipment ..................... $ 279 $ 348
Machinery and equipment ..................... 435 1,218
Leasehold improvements ...................... 43 47
Construction-in-progress .................... 94 2,442
------ ------
851 4,055
Accumulated depreciation and amortization ... (179) (361)
------ ------
$ 672 $3,694
====== ======


5. DEBT AND RELATED ACCRUED INTEREST

On November 14, 1997, the Company entered into a financing arrangement to
borrow up to $3,000,000 to finance leasehold improvements and equipment related
to the Company's planned expansion into a 50,000 square foot manufacturing,
research and administration facility. As of December 31, 1997, $1,500,000 had
been borrowed under this agreement. Borrowings will be payable monthly in
interest-only payments through May 31, 1998 and principal and interest for the
next twelve months. Borrowings under this agreement bear interest at the 30-day
LIBOR rate plus 167 basis points and are secured by the related equipment and
leasehold improvements plus an assignment, equal to 50 percent of the
outstanding balance, in an investment account of the lender. The agreement
requires the Company to comply with certain financial covenants including
minimum liquidity and tangible net worth.

At December 31, 1997, future maturities of long-term debt are as follows:






Year Ended December 31,
- -------------------------

1998 .................. $ 350,000
1999 .................. 1,150,000
----------
Total ................. 1,500,000
Less current portion .. 350,000
----------
Long-term debt ........ $1,150,000
==========


The Company had notes payable to Sharpoint which bore interest at various
rates ranging from 9.5% to 9.75%. These notes were secured by substantially all
of the Partnership assets. On March 29, 1996, notes payable of $10,502,000 and
accrued interest of $981,000 were converted to partners' capital by Sharpoint.
On May 31, 1996, a contribution and exchange agreement was executed whereby
Sharpoint agreed to exchange its partners' capital for 5,453,750 shares of
Common Stock upon the effectiveness of the Company's IPO on September 25, 1996.



6. LEASES

The Company leases office and manufacturing space and equipment under
operating leases which expire at various dates through 2007. Rent expense
related to these leases was approximately $93,000, $136,000 and $316,000 for
1995, 1996 and 1997, respectively.

The Company leases equipment under capital leases with lease terms of four
to five years. At the expiration of the lease term, the Company is required to
purchase primarily all of the equipment for the fair market value of the
equipment and related taxes. The fair market value is to be equal to no less
than 5% or no more than 10% of the equipment cost.


F-11


CLOSURE MEDICAL CORPORATION

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS -- Continued

6. LEASES -- Continued

Future minimum lease payments under noncancellable capital leases and
operating leases with initial or remaining terms of one year or more are as
follows at December 31, 1997:






Capital Operating
Leases Leases
--------- ----------
(in thousands)

1998 .............................. $ 404 $ 534
1999 .............................. 394 476
2000 .............................. 392 484
2001 .............................. 392 490
2002 .............................. 321 500
Later years ....................... -- 2,430
------ ------
Total minimum lease payments ...... 1,903 $4,914
======
Less amount representing interest . (498)
------
Present value of minimum lease payments 1,405
Less current portion .............. (155)
------
Long-term portion ................. $1,250
======


7. MAJOR CUSTOMERS AND COMMITMENTS

On March 20, 1996, the Company entered into an eight-year exclusive supply
and distribution rights agreement with Ethicon, a subsidiary of Johnson &
Johnson, whereby Closure will supply Ethicon with a product for human topical
wound closure. In consideration, Ethicon paid Closure $4,500,000 and agreed to
pay additional amounts upon written notification of U.S. regulatory approval
for the product. Of the $4,500,000 total, $3,500,000 was a non-refundable
licensing fee and $1,000,000 will be offset against either future product
purchases or royalties to be paid by Ethicon on product sales and has been
classified as deferred revenue on the accompanying balance sheet. Ethicon also
agreed to advance Closure additional amounts for direct costs incurred in
connection with clinical studies of the product, which amounts will be credited
against future royalties to be paid by Ethicon. As of December 31, 1997,
Ethicon had advanced the Company $1,000,000 for direct costs of these clinical
studies which has been classified as deferred revenue. With the receipt of
authorization to display the CE mark in the European Union countries in August
1997, which allows the product to be marketed in the European Union, Ethicon
became obligated to purchase certain minimum quantities annually at a
predetermined price based on average selling prices. Upon U. S. approval of the
product, Ethicon will be obligated to purchase additional quantities.

A seven-year marketing agreement with Farnam Companies, Inc. ("Farnam")
was signed in December 1992. This agreement gives Farnam exclusive rights to
market, sell and distribute the Company's veterinary products in North America.


The Company has a non-exclusive supply agreement with Procter &
Gamble/ALZA, Partners for Oral Health Care for an adhesive used in conjunction
with a periodontal drug delivery product. In March 1994, the Company entered
into an agreement with On-Site Therapeutics, Inc. ("On-Site") for exclusive
services to identify purchasers of Octyldent. Under this agreement, On-Site
receives a 5% royalty on net sales of Octyldent up to a cumulative maximum
royalty amount of $1,500,000. Amounts paid during 1995, 1996 and 1997 were
$51,000, $5,000 and $12,000, respectively.

In May 1996, the Company entered into a five-year agreement with a
consultant which provides for annual compensation of $120,000.


8. INCOME TAXES

There is no provision or benefit for current or deferred income taxes
during 1995 or the two months ending February 29, 1996 because, as a
partnership, the Partnership was not subject to income taxes and the tax effect
of its activities accrued to the partners. There is no current provision or
benefit for income taxes recorded for the ten months ended December 31, 1996 or
in 1997 as the Company has generated net operating losses for income tax
purposes for which there is no


F-12


CLOSURE MEDICAL CORPORATION

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS -- Continued

8. INCOME TAXES -- Continued

carryback potential. There is no deferred provision or benefit for income taxes
recorded for the ten months ended December 31, 1996 or in 1997 as the Company
is in a net deferred tax asset position for which a full valuation allowance
has been recorded due to uncertainty of realization.

The tax effects of significant items comprising the Company's deferred
taxes are as follows:






December 31,
---------------------
1996 1997
--------- -----------
(in thousands)

Net operating loss carryforwards ........... $ 44 $ 3,291
Research and development carryforwards ..... 39 237
Temporary differences, net ................. 385 24
------ --------
468 3,552
Valuation allowance ........................ (468) (3,552)
------ --------
Net deferred tax asset ..................... $ -- $ --
====== ========


At December 31, 1996 and 1997, a valuation allowance for all of the
deferred tax assets has been recorded because, due to the Company's history of
losses, it is considered more likely than not that such deferred tax assets
will not ultimately be realized.

At December 31, 1997, the Company had net operating loss carryforwards for
income tax reporting purposes of approximately $7,866,000 expiring beginning in
the year 2011. The Company also had research and development tax credit
carryforwards of approximately $237,000 which will begin to expire in the year
2011.


9. EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS

The Company maintains the Amended and Restated 1996 Equity Compensation
Plan (the "Plan"), adopted by the Board of Directors on May 28, 1996 and
amended on September 24, 1996, December 11, 1996 and March 11, 1997. The Plan
provides that a maximum of 1,000,000 stock options may be granted to officers,
employees, independent contractors and consultants, and non-employee directors
of the Company. In addition, the Plan provides for grants of restricted stock
and stock appreciation rights (herein, together with grants of stock options,
collectively, "Grants") to participants other than non-employee directors of
the Company. The Plan is administered and interpreted by a committee (the
"Committee") of the Board of Directors. Grants under the Plan may consist of
(i) options intended to qualify as incentive stock options ("ISOs") within the
meaning of section 422 of the Internal Revenue Code or (ii) so-called
"nonqualified stock options" that are not intended to so qualify ("NQSOs").
Independent contractors or consultants to the Company are not eligible to
receive ISOs under the Plan. The option price of any ISO granted under the Plan
will not be less than the fair market value of the underlying shares of Common
Stock on the date of grant, except that the option price of an ISO granted to
an employee who owns more than 10% of the total combined voting power of all
classes of stock of the Company or its subsidiaries may not be less than 110%
of the fair market value of the underlying shares of Common Stock on the date
of grant. The option price of a NQSO may be greater than, equal to or less than
the fair market value of the underlying shares of Common Stock on the date of
grant. The Committee will determine the term of each option; provided, however,
that the exercise period may not exceed ten years from the date of grant, and
the exercise period of an ISO granted to an employee who owns more than 10% of
the total combined voting power of all classes of stock of the Company or its
subsidiaries may not exceed five years from the date of grant. Options
outstanding at December 31, 1996 and 1997 generally vest within four to five
years.


F-13


CLOSURE MEDICAL CORPORATION

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS -- Continued

9. EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS -- Continued

The following table summarizes stock option activity under the Plan for
the year ended December 31, 1997:






Weighted- Weighted-
Average Average
Price Remaining
Shares Per Share Contractual Life
------------ ----------- -----------------

Options outstanding at January 1, 1996 ........... -- $ --
Granted
With discount exercise price ................... 550,000 5.27 8.41
With market exercise price ..................... 29,602 8.00 8.75
Exercised ........................................ -- --
Expired or canceled
With discount exercise price ................... (6,996) 5.27
-------
Options outstanding at December 31, 1996 ......... 572,606
Granted .......................................... 245,600 24.33 9.51
Exercised ........................................ (67,530) 6.94
Canceled ......................................... (31,139) 9.63
-------
Options outstanding at December 31, 1997 ......... 719,537
=======





Options Outstanding Options Exercisable
------------------------------------------------ -------------------------------
Weighted-
Average
Weighted- Remaining Weighted-
Range of Number Average Contractual Number Average
Exercise Price Outstanding Exercise Price Life Exercisable Exercise Price
- ----------------------------- ------------- ---------------- ------------- ------------- ---------------

$5.00-$8.00 ................ 488,209 $ 5.38 8.43 194,314 $ 5.56
$14.75-$22.00 .............. 133,088 18.75 9.37 17,794 22.00
$27.00-$34.50 .............. 98,240 32.42 9.70 13,620 27.00
Available for grant at
December 31, 1997 ......... 212,933


During 1996 and 1997, the Company recognized approximately $500,000 and
$304,000, respectively, of compensation cost related to the Plan. Had
compensation expense for 1996 and 1997 awards, assuming it was recognized on a
straight-line basis over the vesting period, been determined based on the fair
value at the grant date, consistent with the provisions of SFAS No. 123, the
Company's results of operations would have been reduced to the pro forma
amounts indicated below:






1996 1997
------------- ------------

Net loss--as reported ............................ $ (16,814) $ (6,829)
Net loss--pro forma .............................. (17,414) (8,244)
Loss per share--basic and diluted--as reported ... (1.63) (0.53)
Loss per share--basic and diluted--pro forma ..... (1.69) (0.64)


The pro forma amounts discussed above were derived using the Black-Scholes
option-pricing model with the assumptions indicated below:






Assumptions 1996 1997
- -------------------------------------------- --------- ---------

Average expected life (years) ............ 6 5
Average interest rate .................... 6.5% 6.5%
Volatility ............................... 70.0% 73.1%
Dividend yield ........................... 0.0% 0.0%




F-14


CLOSURE MEDICAL CORPORATION

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS -- Continued

9. EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS -- Continued

The Company maintains a 401(k) Retirement Plan and Trust (the "401(k)
Plan") available to all full-time, eligible employees. Employee contributions
are voluntary and are limited to the maximum amount allowable under federal tax
regulations. Effective January 1, 1997, the 401(k) Plan was amended to make
one-half of the matching contribution in the form of cash and one-half in the
form of shares of Common Stock of the Company ("participant shares").
Participant shares are based on the matching contributions during the fiscal
year divided by the Company's closing stock price on December 31, with
fractional shares paid in cash. At December 31, 1997, the 401(k) Plan had a
receivable from the Company in the amount of 873 shares based on the closing
stock price of $25.875. Amounts contributed to the 401(k) Plan during 1995,
1996 and 1997 were immaterial.


10. SUBSEQUENT EVENTS

On January 1, 1998, the Company entered into an agreement with Innocoll
("Innocoll"), of Saal-Donau, Germany, which provides for fees of $180,000 per
year for five years. Innocoll is to act as Closure's authorized representative
in Europe under the Medical Device Directive, as well as provide alternative
manufacturing space. The Chairman of the Company and another board member are
owners of Innocoll.


F-15


SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities
Exchange Act of 1934, the Registrant has duly caused this report to be signed
on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.


CLOSURE MEDICAL CORPORATION

Date: March 26, 1998



By: /s/ ROBERT V. TONI*
------------------------------------
Robert V. Toni
President and Chief Executive Officer

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this
report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the
Registrant and in the capacities and on the dates indicated.

EACH PERSON IN SO SIGNING ALSO MAKES, CONSTITUTES AND APPOINTS ROBERT V.
TONI, PRESIDENT AND CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER OF CLOSURE MEDICAL CORPORATION, AND
J. BLOUNT SWAIN, VICE PRESIDENT OF FINANCE AND CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER OF
CLOSURE MEDICAL CORPORATION, AND EACH OF THEM ACTING ALONE, HIS TRUE AND LAWFUL
ATTORNEYS-IN-FACT, WITH FULL POWER OF SUBSTITUTION, IN HIS NAME, PLACE AND
STEAD, TO EXECUTE AND CAUSE TO BE FILED WITH THE SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE
COMMISSION ANY OR ALL AMENDMENTS TO THIS REPORT, AND HEREBY RATIFIES AND
CONFIRMS ALL THAT SAID ATTORNEY-IN-FACT OR HIS SUBSTITUTE OR SUBSTITUTES MAY DO
OR CAUSE TO BE DONE BY VIRTUE HEREOF.





Name Capacity Date
- --------------------------------------- --------------------------------------- ---------------

/s/ ROBERT V. TONI President and Chief Executive Officer March 26, 1998
---------------------------------- (principal executive officer) and
Robert V. Toni Director


/s/ J. BLOUNT SWAIN Vice President and Chief Financial March 26, 1998
---------------------------------- Officer (principal financial and
J. Blount Swain accounting officer)


/s/ ROLF D. SCHMIDT Chairman of the Board and Director March 26, 1998
----------------------------------
Rolf D. Schmidt

/s/ F. WILLIAM SCHMIDT Director March 26, 1998
----------------------------------
F. William Schmidt

/s/ DENNIS C. CAREY Director March 26, 1998
----------------------------------
Dennis C. Carey

/s/ RICHARD W. MILLER Director March 26, 1998
----------------------------------
Richard W. Miller

/s/ RANDY H. THURMAN Director March 26, 1998
----------------------------------
Randy H. Thurman




EXHIBIT INDEX






Exhibit
Number Description
- ----------------------- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

3.1 Restated Certificate of Incorporation. (Exhibit 3.1)(1)
3.2 Amendment to Restated Certificate of Incorporation. (Exhibit 3.2)(2)
3.3 By-Laws. (Exhibit 3.2)(1)
10.1 Office-Warehouse Lease Agreement, dated as of November 7, 1995, between AP
Southeast Portfolio Partners, L.P. and the Company. (Exhibit 10.1)(1)
10.2 + Supply and Distribution Rights Agreement, dated as of March 20, 1996, between
Ethicon, Inc. and the Company. (Exhibit 10.8)(1)
10.3(double dagger)* Amended and Restated 1996 Equity Compensation Plan of the Company.
10.4(double dagger) Employment Agreement, dated as of May 31, 1996, between Robert V. Toni and the
Company. (Exhibit 10.10)(1)
10.5(double dagger) Employment Agreement, dated as of May 31, 1996, between J. Blount Swain and
the Company. (Exhibit 10.11)(1)
10.6(double dagger) Employment Agreement, dated as of May 31, 1996, between Jeffrey G. Clark and
the Company. (Exhibit 10.12)(1)
10.7(double dagger) Employment Agreement, dated as of May 31, 1996, between Joe B. Barefoot and
the Company. (Exhibit 10.13)(1)
10.8(double dagger) Consulting Agreement, dated as of May 31, 1996, between Steven A. Kriegsman
and the Company. (Exhibit 10.14)(1)
10.9 Registration Rights Agreement, dated as of May 31, 1996, between Caratec, L.L.C.
and the Company. (Exhibit 10.15)(1)
10.10 Registration Rights Agreement, dated as of May 31, 1996, among Cacoosing
Partners, L.P., OMI Partners, L.P., Triangle Partners, L.P., F. William Schmidt, Rolf
D. Schmidt, Robert V. Toni, J. Blount Swain, Jeffrey G. Clark, Joe B. Barefoot and
the Company. (Exhibit 10.16)(1)
10.11 Contribution and Exchange Agreement, dated as of May 31, 1996, among
Cacoosing Partners, L.P., OMI Partners, L.P., Triangle Partners, L.P., F. William
Schmidt, Rolf D. Schmidt, Caratec, L.L.C., Robert V. Toni, J. Blount Swain, Jeffrey
G. Clark, Joe B. Barefoot, Jeffery C. Basham, Jeffrey C. Leung, Anthony V. Seaber
and the Company. (Exhibit 10.17)(1)
10.12 Amendment, dated June 18, 1996, to Office-Warehouse Lease Agreement, dated as
of November 7, 1995, between AP Southeast Portfolio Partners, L.P. and the
Company. (Exhibit 10.18)(1)
10.13 Lease, dated February 14, 1997, between AP Southeast Portfolio Partners, L.P. and
the Company. (Exhibit 10.19)(2)
10.14 Master Lease Agreement, dated as of January 29, 1997, between Transamerica
Business Credit Corporation and the Company. (Exhibit 10.20)(2)
10.15* Loan Agreement, dated November 14, 1997, between NationsBank, N.A. and the
Company.
10.16* Promissory Note, dated November 14, 1997, issued by the Company to
NationsBank, N.A.
10.17* Security Agreement, dated November 14, 1997, between the Company and
NationsBank, N.A.
10.18* Pledge Agreement, dated November 14, 1997, between the Company and
NationsBank N.A.
10.19(double dagger)* Employment Agreement, dated as of June 9, 1997, between William M. Cotter and
the Company.
10.20(double dagger)* Employment Agreement, dated as of January 1, 1998, between Anthony J.
Sherbondy and the Company.
10.21(double dagger)* Employment Agreement, dated as of February 18, 1998, between Dennis D. Burns
and the Company.
10.22* Amendment, dated August 15, 1997, to Lease, dated February 14, 1997, between
AP Southeast Portfolio Partners, L.P. and the Company.
10.23* Representative and Manufacturing Facility Agreement, dated January 1, 1998,
between Innocoll GmbH and the Company.
11* Statement re: Computation of Per Share Earnings.







Exhibit
Number Description
- ------------ ----------------------------------------------------------------------

23.1* Consent of Price Waterhouse LLP.
24.1* Power of Attorney (included on signature page to this Annual Report).
27* Financial Data Schedule.


- ---------
* Filed herewith.

+ Portions of this exhibit were omitted and filed separately with the
Secretary of the Commission pursuant to an order of the Commission granting
the Company's application for confidential treatment filed pursuant to Rule
406 under the Securities Act.

(double dagger) Compensation plans and arrangements for executives and
others.

(1) Filed as an exhibit to the Company's Registration Statement on Form S-1
(Registration No. 333-5425) filed with the Commission on June 7, 1996, as
amended, and incorporated herein by reference.

(2) Filed as an exhibit to the Company's Registration Statement on Form S-1
(Registration No. 333-22981) filed with the Commission on March 7, 1997,
and incorporated herein by reference.