Spermatic Cord

Question 1

What is the spermatic cord?

Answer 1

The spermatic cord refers to a collection of vessels, nerves and ducts that run to and from the testes. They are surrounded by fascia, forming a cord-like structure.

Question 2

The anatomical course of the spermatic cord

Answer 2

Begins in the inferior abdomen and ends in the scrotum.

Formed at deep inguinal ring, passes through the inguinal canal, enters scrotum via the superficial inguinal ring and ends at the posterior border of the testes.

Question 3

The contents of the spermatic cord are mainly bound together by…

Answer 3

Three fascial layers:

External spermatic fascia
Cremaster muscle and fascia
Internal spermatic fascia

Question 4

Cresmasteric reflex

Answer 4

Stimulated by stroking the superior and medial part of the thigh.

This produces an immediate contraction of the cremaster muscle, elevating the testis on the side that has been stimulated.

Question 5

Contents of the spermatic cord

Answer 5

Testicular artery
Pampiniform plexus of testicular veins 
Cresmaster artery
Cresmaster vein
Artery to vas deferens 
Genital branch of genitofemoral nerve
Autonomic nerves