Human Anatomy, Part 1 - K. A. Dyubenko, A. K. Kolomiysev, Yu. B. Chaykovsky 2002

Special Part
Reproductive Systems, systemata genitalia - Male Reproductive System, systema masculinum
Internal Male Genital Organs, organa genitalia masculina interna - Epididymis

The Epididymis is located on the posterior surface of the Testis. It is 5-6 cm long, 1-1.5 cm wide, and 0.6-0.8 cm thick. Its parts include the HEAD, body, and tail (see Fig. 318 A). The epididymis consists of efferent ductules that emerge from the rete testis and form the duct of the epididymis, ductus epididymis, which continues as the vas deferens, Ductus deferens. The epididymis is an androgen-dependent, secretorily active organ responsible for the transport, storage, and maturation of spermatozoa. The maturation period (transit time from the head to the tail) is 14 days. It is here that spermatozoa acquire motility. Complete damage to the epididymis impairs Spermatogenesis.

Blood supply to the testis and epididymis is provided by the aa. testicularis and aa. ductus deferentiales. Venous drainage goes into the pampiniform plexus, pl. pampiniformis, and subsequently into the v. testicularis.

The Lymphatic vessels draining Lymph from the testis run within the Spermatic Cord and empty into the lumbar Lymph Nodes.

Innervation is supplied by the plexus testicularis.



Last update: 08/08/2026

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