The spermatic cord is a paired cord-like structure that suspends the testicle inside the scrotum. It is a collection of vessels, nerves, and lymphatics that run to and from the testicle and allow it to function normally. The structures within the spermatic cord are covered by some of the previously mentioned covering tissue layers.

The spermatic cord starts at the level of the deep inguinal ring and extends to the tail of the epididymis. It is formed during the descent of the testicle when it travels from the abdomen through the inguinal canal into the scrotum. The spermatic cord passes through the inguinal canal and enters the scrotum via the superficial inguinal ring. From there, it descends into the scrotum to reach the testicle and ends at the posterior border of the testicle.

The spermatic cord contains the following structures:

Ductus deferens (Read more!)
Vestige of processus vaginalis
Arteries
- Testicular artery (branch of the abdominal aorta)
- Artery of ductus deferens (branch of the umbilical artery)
- Cremasteric artery (or external spermatic artery; branch of the inferior epigastric artery)
Veins
- Pampiniform plexus (forms the testicular vein)
- Cremasteric vein (tributary of the inferior epigastric vein)
- Vein of ductus deferens (tributary of the vesical venous plexus)
Nerves
- Genital branch of the genitofemoral nerve
- Autonomic nerve fibers (sympathetic and parasympathetic)
- Nerve to ductus deferens
Lymphatic vessels (drain into the periaortic or lumbar lymph nodes)

A particular number can be helpful when trying to remember all these structures. It is the number 3 - the spermatic cord includes three arteries, three veins, three nerves, and three other structures.

Note: Some sources claim that the spermatic cord also includes the ilioinguinal nerve. However, this is not true. The ilioinguinal nerve runs along the outside of the cord, going anterior to it.

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Spermatic cord