Space
Tunica vaginalis
A serous covering left by the testicular descent pathway
High-yield
A hydrocele is excess fluid between the vaginalis layers. Its upper extent varies with the type of hydrocele, so an inability to feel above every hydrocele is not a valid general rule.
Overview
The distal processus vaginalis remains as a double-layered serous covering around much of the testis and epididymis. Its visceral layer follows their surfaces and reflects into a parietal layer inside the spermatic coverings. A thin fluid film allows the surfaces to move with little friction; the posterior attachment region is not freely enclosed.
Reference facts
- Boundaries
- The visceral layer covers much of the testis and epididymis and turns back into the parietal lining of the surrounding coverings, leaving a posterior attachment area for ducts and vessels.
- Contents
- The potential cavity normally holds only a lubricating film. The organs project into the covering rather than floating freely within it; small testicular or epididymal appendages may lie near the upper pole.
- Communications
- The mature sac normally has no open abdominal connection. Persistence of the proximal processus vaginalis can maintain a channel through the inguinal canal.
Clinical correlation
A patent proximal processus vaginalis can connect this sac with the abdomen, allowing a communicating hydrocele or indirect hernia. Trauma may produce a hematocele. A high serous investment that leaves the testis unusually mobile is the bell-clapper configuration associated with intravaginal torsion.
Frequently asked questions
What are the boundaries of the tunica vaginalis?
The visceral layer covers much of the testis and epididymis and turns back into the parietal lining of the surrounding coverings, leaving a posterior attachment area for ducts and vessels.
What does the tunica vaginalis contain?
The potential cavity normally holds only a lubricating film. The organs project into the covering rather than floating freely within it; small testicular or epididymal appendages may lie near the upper pole.
What does the tunica vaginalis communicate with?
The mature sac normally has no open abdominal connection. Persistence of the proximal processus vaginalis can maintain a channel through the inguinal canal.