Following are the structures carried with this cord:

• It contains two main arteries namely testicular and deferential arteries.

• Nerves contained within this cord include gential branch of genitofemoral nerve and testicular nerves (sympathatic nerves).

• The main constituent of this cord is vas deferens.

• The veins carried within this cord are in the form of a plexus (anastomosis of veins) called pampiniform plexus.

• In addition, it contain lymphatic vessels.

• It is covered by a layer of tunica vaginlais as well.

Testicular nerve, pampiniform plexus, arteries and lymph vessels tend to run deep to the internal spermatic fascia. Contrary, ilioinguinal nerve, cremasteric artery and genitofemoral nerves pass superficial to the internal spermatic fascia.

COVERINGS:

Following are the different layers that cover spermatic cord (from outside to the inside):

• External spermatic fascia. This fascia is the extension of innominate fascia that overlies the external oblique muscles.

• A continuation of the fascia of external oblique muscle called cremasteric fascia. This layer also includes cremasteric muscle.

• The innermost layer is made of internal spermatic fascia. This fascia is the continuation of fascia transversalis.

CLINICAL IMPORTANCE:

• Spermatic cord is a sensitive structure that is sensitive to the effects of torsion. Testicular torsion may irreverably damage spermatic cord.

• Fluid may fill the spermatic cord. This condition is called funiculocele.

• The contents of abdomen may pass into the inguinal canal (path of spermatic cord). This condition is termed as indirect inguinal hernia.

• The veins of spermatic cord might get varicose. This condition is called varicocele.

• Damage to spermatic cord negatively affects fertility.