The spermatic cord is the bundle of structures that suspends each testis and runs from the deep inguinal ring through the inguinal canal to the back of the testis. It contains the vas deferens, the testicular artery, the pampiniform venous plexus, nerves and lymphatics. Three layers of fascia derived from the abdominal wall cover it.
| Location | From the deep inguinal ring, through the inguinal canal and superficial inguinal ring, to the posterior border of the testis |
|---|---|
| Parts |
|
| Nerve Supply | Genital branch of the genitofemoral nerve (cremaster); Testicular plexus; Ilioinguinal nerve (alongside the cord, not within it) |
| Blood Supply | Testicular artery; Artery to the ductus deferens; Cremasteric artery |
| Venous drainage |
|
| Lymphatic drainage |
|
Suspends the testis and carries its blood supply, venous drainage, nerves, lymphatics and the vas deferens.
Twisting of the cord causes testicular torsion. The cord is felt above the testis when examining for varicocele or hernia, since an indirect inguinal hernia descends alongside it. Surgeons tie or block it during hernia repair and orchidectomy, and local anaesthetic can be injected into it for scrotal procedures.
Twisting of the spermatic cord cutting off blood flow to the testis; a surgical emergency.
Enlarged veins of the pampiniform plexus within the cord, usually on the left side.
Abdominal contents passing through the deep ring and along the cord, sometimes into the scrotum.
This website uses cookies to enhance your experience. Some are essential for site functionality, while others help us analyze and improve your usage experience. Please review your options and make your choice.
If you are under 16 years old, please ensure that you have received consent from your parent or guardian for any non-essential cookies.
Your privacy is important to us. You can adjust your cookie settings at any time. For more information about how we use data, please read our privacy policy. You may change your preferences at any time by clicking on the settings button below.
Note that if you choose to disable some types of cookies, it may impact your experience of the site and the services we are able to offer.
Some required resources have been blocked, which can affect third-party services and may cause the site to not function properly.
This website uses cookies to enhance your browsing experience and ensure the site functions properly. By continuing to use this site, you acknowledge and accept our use of cookies.
