Morphological comparison of processus vaginalis from boys with undescended testis and hernia sacs from boys with inguinal hernia
Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 24, 2026

Clinical Application of 24 G Cannula Needle and 3-0 Polypropylene Suture in Vas Deferens Exploration
Published on: February 10, 2023
C Piçarro1, E S Tatsuo, V F Amaral
1Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil.
Introduction:
The aim of this study was to compare the morphological features of processus vaginalis (PV) and hernia sacs obtained from boys with undescended testis and inguinal hernia, respectively, in order to investigate whether these structures have similar histology.
Material And Methods:
Samples of PV (n=61) and hernia sacs (n=68) obtained from boys operated for undescended testis (n=58) and inguinal hernia (n=64), respectively, were stained with hematoxylin-eosin for optical qualitative microscopy analysis. The histological structures of each group of samples were compared by a pathologist blinded to the specific pathology.
Results:
The most prevalent histological findings were connective tissue, smooth muscle, mesothelium, nervous elements, striated muscle and mesonephric remnants with no statistical differences between the groups. The amount of smooth muscle was greater in the hernia sac group where it appeared as a layer. In contrast, the smooth muscle present in the form of sparse bundles around the connective tissue in the PV.
Conclusions:
Sacs obtained from boys with inguinal hernia and PV obtained from boys with undescended testis shares a similar histology except for the amount of smooth muscle when analyzed qualitatively by optical microscopy using hematoxylin-eosin stain.
Related Concept Videos
Testes: Gross Anatomy
Each testis is surrounded by the tunica albuginea, a dense connective tissue layer that provides structural support and protection. This layer is covered by an outer serous membrane called the tunica vaginalis, which helps reduce friction...
Development of the Sexual Organs in the Embryo and Fetus
Near the gonadal ridges, two duct systems are present: the mesonephric ducts (Wolffian ducts) and paramesonephric ducts (Müllerian ducts). These ducts form the basis for the male...
Testes: Histology
The spermatogenic cells, responsible for producing sperm, are...
Accessory Ducts of the Male Reproductive System
The epididymis is a small, comma-shaped organ located at the back of each testicle.
Accessory Glands of the Male Reproductive System
The epididymis is a small, comma-shaped organ located at the back of each testicle. The epididymis can be divided into three main parts: the head, body, and tail. The head of the epididymis...
External Female Genitals

