The spermatic cord is the cord-like structure in males formed by the vas deferens ( ductus deferens) and surrounding tissue that runs from the deep inguinal ring down to each testicle. Its Serous membrane covering, the tunica vaginalis, is an extension of the peritoneum that passes through the transversalis fascia. Each testicle develops in the lower thoracic and upper lumbar region and migrates into the scrotum. During its descent it carries along with it the vas deferens, its vessels, nerves etc. There is one on each side.
Structure
The spermatic cord is ensheathed in three layers of tissue:
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external spermatic fascia, an extension of the innominate fascia that overlies the aponeurosis of the external oblique muscle.
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cremasteric muscle and fascia, formed from a continuation of the internal oblique muscle and its fascia.
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internal spermatic fascia, continuous with the transversalis fascia.
The normal diameter of the spermatic cord is about 16 mm (range 11 to 22 mm).
Contents
Blood vessels
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Testicular artery
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Artery to the ductus deferens
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Cremasteric artery
Nerves
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Nerve to cremaster (genital branch of the genitofemoral nerve).
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Testicular nerves (sympathetic nerves).
The ilioinguinal nerve is not actually located inside the spermatic cord, but runs outside it in the
inguinal canal.
Other contents
The
tunica vaginalis is located in front of the spermatic cord, outside it.
Clinical significance
The spermatic cord is sensitive to
torque, in which the testicle rotates within its sac and blocks its own blood supply. Testicular torsion may result in irreversible damage to the testicle within hours. A collection of
serous fluid in the spermatic cord is named 'funiculocele'.
The contents of the abdominal cavity may protrude into the inguinal canal, producing an indirect inguinal hernia
Varicose veins of the spermatic cord are referred to as varicocele. Though often asymptomatic, about one in four people with varicocele have negatively affected fertility.
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