The anatomy of gubernaculum testis and processus vaginalis in cryptorchidism.

The macroscopic anatomy of gubernaculum testis and processus vaginalis has been carefully studied during 150 consecutive orchiopexies. In subcutaneous and canalicular testes a well defined gubernaculum was found representing a morphologic continuity from the testis to the bottom of the scrotum. The gubernaculum was detectable in only one of four abdominal testicles. In 75% of the patients the serous communication between the testis and the abdominal cavity was lost. 43% of the patients still had a detectable rest of the processus vaginalis of which one third presented with a clinical hernia.