4.2 Scrotum and Spermatic Cord

Question 1

Identify the spermatic cord.

Answer 1

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Question 2

Identify the internal and external spermatic fascia. From what layer do these originate?

Answer 2

• External spermatic fascia: This thin outermost layer is continuous with the external oblique.
• Internal spermatic fascia: This thin innermost layer is continuous with the transversals fascia (endoabdominal fascia)

Question 3

Identify the cremasteric muscle and fascia. Describe the function and neurovasculature of the cremaster muscle. From what layer do these originate? What does it become in females?

Answer 3

Cremasteric muscle is innervated by genital branch of the genitofemoral nerve L1-L2. (stimulation of inner thigh (femoral branch) can cause retraction of the testes)).

Function: retract the testes. Thermoregulation.

Arterial supply: cremasteric artery. from Inferior epigastrics.

This layer is continuous with the internal oblique.

In females, it is part of the round ligament.

Question 4

Identify the ductus deferens and its course.

Answer 4

Epididymis to ejaculatory duct.

Question 5

Identify the testicular artery and its course. From where does this branch?

Answer 5

Abdominal aorta.

Question 6

Identify the pampiniform plexus of veins and describe their function.

Answer 6

Thermoregulation. Spread out over testicular artery.

Question 7

Identify the tunica vaginalis as well as its parietal and visceral layers.

Answer 7

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Question 8

Identify the epididymis and its following structures: Head, Body, Tail, Appendix

Answer 8

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Question 9

Describe the abdominal wall origin, location, function, AND innervation of the dartos muscle.

Answer 9

• Embryologic Origin: Deep membranous (Scarpa’s)
• Location: throughout scrotum wall.
• Function: “shrinkage” for thermoregulation.
• Innervation: Sympathetics running with ilioinguinal L1 and posterior scrotal nerves.