Corpus: Testicular plexus
1. Definition
The testicular plexus is an autonomic nerve plexus that runs within the spermatic cord, accompanying the testicular artery to the testicles.
2. Anatomy
The anatomy of the testicular plexus is complex and not entirely understood. It primarily consists of sympathetic nerve fibres, originating from spinal segments T10 to T12, associated with the process of testicular descent. These fibres travel via the lesser splanchnic nerve to the celiac and aorticorenal ganglia, where they form synapses. Recent studies have identified distinct spermatic ganglia near the branches of the testicular arteries.[1][2]
The nerve fibres of the testicular plexus travel along the aorta, passing through the abdominal aortic plexus, renal plexus, and superior and inferior hypogastric plexuses. Parasympathetic fibres originate from segments S2 to S4.
3. Function
The testicular plexus plays a role in regulating blood flow to the testicles and innervates the smooth muscles of the tunica albuginea. It also sends fibres to the deferent duct and epididymis and transmits sensory signals to the central nervous system.
4. Sources
- ↑ Motoc A et al: The spermatic ganglion in humans: an anatomical update Romanian Journal of Morphology and Embryology 2010, 51(4):719-723
- ↑ Beveridge TS, Johnson M, Power A, Power NE, Allman BL. Anatomy of the nerves and ganglia of the aortic plexus in males. J Anat. 2015 Jan;226(1):93-103. doi: 10.1111/joa.12251. Epub 2014 Nov 9. PMID: 25382240; PMCID: PMC4313893.
5. Literature
- elsevier.com - Testicular Plexus (Left), accessed 16/09/2024
- pschyrembel.de - Plexus testicularis, retrieved on 16/09/2024