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Huan pulse (Slow/Relaxed Pulse) originally has two meanings. One is "harmonious and relaxed" (Hehuan), where the pulse beats four times per respiratory cycle, representing normal Stomach Qi (Wei Qi). It is described as neither too large nor too small, neither too rigid nor too soft, with a vibrant spirit that is difficult to describe in words. The pulse of a healthy person should be like this. The other is "lethargic and sluggish" (Daihuan), where the pulse feels damp and stagnant, failing to advance smoothly. This may be due to Dampness obstructing the Middle Jiao (Spleen and Stomach region), or Dampness flowing into the joints. Therefore, if a surgical disease presents with a harmonious and relaxed pulse, it aligns with the Qi of Harmony and Balance; regardless of whether the abscess has ulcerated or not, it indicates a favorable condition. Conversely, if a lethargic and sluggish pulse is present, it invariably indicates the lingering presence of Dampness pathogen.

Kou pulse (Hollow Pulse) refers to a pulse that is empty in the middle, which is a sign of blood loss. Since blood volume has decreased, the pulse channel is not fully filled, resembling a scallion stalk. Patients who have suffered blood loss often exhibit this pulse, confirming that this is not merely an empty statement by ancient sages.
In surgical diseases before ulceration, according to principles, a Kou pulse should not appear; if it does, it indicates that the patient has been suffering from chronic blood loss. After ulceration, when pus and blood are discharged in large quantities, a Kou pulse may occasionally be observed. However, unless it is a severe condition lasting for a long time with massive discharge of pus, this pulse is not commonly seen. In such cases, nourishing and tonifying treatments cannot be delayed.

Dong pulse (Moving Pulse) refers to a pulse where a single bead-like prominence rises, moving like a pearl or bean, quivering and shaking. According to principles, it primarily indicates pain. Pain causes Qi stagnation, which adheres and fails to circulate, preventing the pulse channel from flowing freely, causing it to condense in one area, moving like a pearl. Although this pulse image is not constant, even experienced physicians encounter it from time to time. (The *Suwen* states that if the Hand-Shaoyin pulse moves vigorously in women, it indicates pregnancy. This is also due to the initial coagulation of Qi and Blood and unsmooth pulse flow. When diagnosing pregnancy pulses, this may also be the cause. Otherwise, severe pain leads to Qi knotting, and the pulse responds accordingly. In all these cases, methods of diffusing and draining should be employed to seek smooth and free Qi mechanism.)

Fu pulse (Hidden Pulse) refers to a pulse that is deeply hidden and invisible. It cannot be felt with light pressure but only becomes palpable with extreme heavy pressure. Unless it is due to deep-seated pathogens or congealing Yin-Cold, it is otherwise caused by severe pain leading to Qi stagnation and obstruction of the pulse channel. Thus, regarding external sores, if the disease is located in the muscles, the pulse should certainly not be Fu. If a Fu pulse appears, it must be a deep-rooted abscess like Agujuzhong (Bone-attached Abscess), with complex roots, formed over a long period, not overnight. During the peak of toxicity when pus is forming and the disease momentum is extremely fierce, a Fu pulse may occasionally be seen, indicating that extreme pain blocks flow, making the pulse very choppy and thus hidden. After ulceration, since the toxin has been discharged and Qi is unblocked, a hidden pulse should no longer appear. If it is still seen, it means the toxin remains firmly consolidated and has not diminished despite pus formation; how dire the situation would be can be imagined.