Inguinal canal
Inguinal Canal
The Inguinal Canal (pronounced: in-gwuh-nl kan-uhl) is an important structure in the anatomy of the groin region of the human body.
Etymology
The term "Inguinal" is derived from the Latin word "Inguen" which means "groin". The word "Canal" is derived from the Latin word "Canalis" which means "channel" or "pipe".
Definition
The Inguinal Canal is a passage in the anterior abdominal wall which in males conveys the spermatic cord and in females the round ligament of the uterus. It is a key point of weakness in the abdominal wall and thus a common site for hernias.
Structure
The Inguinal Canal is approximately 4 cm long and is directed inferomedially. It is superior and parallel to the medial half of the inguinal ligament. The canal commences at the deep inguinal ring and ends at the superficial inguinal ring.
Related Terms
- Deep Inguinal Ring: The entrance to the Inguinal Canal.
- Superficial Inguinal Ring: The exit of the Inguinal Canal.
- Inguinal Hernia: A type of hernia that occurs when an internal part of the body pushes through a weakness in the Inguinal Canal.
- Spermatic Cord: The cord-like structure in males extending from the abdominal inguinal ring to the testis.
- Round Ligament of the Uterus: A ligament that connects the uterus to the groin in females, which travels through the Inguinal Canal.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Inguinal canal
- Wikipedia's article - Inguinal canal
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