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Table 3-5

Factors of Muscle Viability

ColorNormally beefy red; rarely, carbon monoxide exposure can be deceiving.
ConsistencyNormally firm, not easily disrupted
Capacity to bleed
  • Typically reliable
  • Can be deceiving because arterioles in necrotic muscle can bleed
Contractility
  • Typically reliable
  • Responsive to forceps pinch or low cautery setting