| Processus vaginalis | |
|---|---|
| Schematic drawing of a cross-section through the vaginal process. 1 testicle, 2 Epididymis, 3 Mesorchium, 4 Lamina visceralis of Tunica vaginalis, 5 Lamina parietalis of Tunica vaginalis, 6 Cavum vaginale, 7 Mesepididymis, 8 Fascia spermatica interna | |
| Latin | processus vaginalis peritonei masculinus |
| Days | 84 |
| Gives rise to | Tunica vaginalis |
The processus vaginalis (or vaginal process) is an embryonic developmental outpouching of the peritoneum.
It is present from around the 12th week of gestation, and commences as a peritoneal outpouching.
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In males, it precedes the testis in their descent down within the gubernaculum, and closes. This closure (also called fusion) occurs at any point from a few weeks before birth, to a few weeks after birth. The remaining portion around the testes becomes the tunica vaginalis.[1]
If it does not close in females, it forms the canal of Nuck.[2]
Failure of closure of the processus vaginalis leads to the propensity to develop a number of abnormalities.
Peritoneal fluid can travel down a patent processus vaginalis leading to the formation of a hydrocele. Accumulation of blood in a persistent processus vaginalis could result in a hematocele.
There is the potential for an indirect inguinal hernia to develop, although not all people with a patent processus vaginalis will develop one. The more patent the processus vaginalis, the more likely the patient is to develop a hernia.
Persistent patent processus vaginalis is more common on the right than the left.
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