Spermatic

Spermatic is an anatomical term relating to sperm or to the structures associated with the male reproductive system, particularly those connected to the testes. It is used in compound terms to designate parts such as the spermatic cord, as well as vessels and nerves that accompany the testes and the vas deferens.

The spermatic cord is a flexible anatomical bundle that extends from the inguinal canal to the testis. It contains the vas deferens, the testicular artery, the pampiniform venous plexus, lymphatic vessels, nerves, and the cremasteric vessels and muscle. The cord also carries coverings of the testis and provides a conduit for blood supply, innervation, and venous drainage.

Other contexts for the term include the pampiniform plexus of veins within the cord, the cremaster muscle and its nerves, and various vessels such as the artery of the vas deferens. In clinical and surgical settings, the adjective appears in discussions of conditions and procedures affecting the spermatic cord and its contents, including torsion of the cord, varicocele, and orchidopexy.

Etymology traces spermatic to Latin spermaticus, from Greek spermatikos, related to sperma (seed or semen). The term emphasizes connection to semen production, transport, and the structures that support male fertility. Overall, spermatic conveys relations to the spermatic cord and associated reproductive anatomy rather than to semen production alone.