Variable Anatomical Presentation of Testicular Veins: A Cross-sectional Study

Abstract

Introduction: The anatomy of gonadal veins is of growing importance, with an increased number of laparoscopic and open intra-abdominal surgical procedures. Gonadal veins display great variability concerning their course, number, and termination site. Aim: To explore the possible anatomical variations in the course and termination pattern of testicular veins. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 35 human male cadavers in Gandhi Medical College, Secunderabad, Telangana, India and All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Bibinagar, Telangana, India, from 2019-2021. The course numbers and drainage pattern of testicular veins were analysed for any anatomical variations. Results: Two out of the 35 (5.71%) cases had shown multiple testicular veins. One case showed quadruple testicular veins with two oblique communicating veins on the right side and double left testicular veins on the left side. In another case, double right testicular veins with a single vein on the left side. However, no significant variations of arteries were noted in any of these cases. Conclusion: Detailed knowledge of variable presentations of testicular veins is necessary for vascular surgeons, urologists, nephrologists, and radiologists in safeguarding these veins intraoperatively and also, reducing any postoperative vascular complications.

Keywords

• anatomical variation
• nephrologist
• oblique communicating branch
• testicular vein
• vascular complications