442 CLINICAL APPLIED ANATOMY. 



the testicle. Normally it becomes closed throughout the 

 whole length between these two points, and then a collection 

 of fluid in the tunica vaginalis, surrounding the testis, between 

 its parietal and visceral layers constitutes the common vaginal 

 hydrocele. 



Failure in the complete obliteration in any portion of the 

 length between the site of the deep ring and the commencement 

 of the tunica vaginalis leaves a potential cavity which may 

 become distended with fluid. This will constitute the so-called 

 encysted liydroccle of the cord. 



Supposing the processus vaginalis becomes closed at the site 

 of the deep abdominal ring but remains patent the whole way 

 below this, and its cavity becomes distended with fluid, there 

 is present what is termed an infantile hydrocele. 



On the other hand, given that the processus vaginalis becomes 

 obliterated about the region of the superficial abdominal ring or 

 slightly below it, remaining patent and in communication with 

 the abdomen on the proximal side, fluid trickling into this portion 

 will constitute a funicular hydrocele. 



In tapping a common vaginal hydrocele it is important to 

 remember the relationship of the body of the testis to the fluid. 

 In by far the larger number of instances the testis lies below 

 and behind, and the trochar and cannula introduced from the 

 front to a depth not greater than half an inch should not touch 

 the anterior surface of the organ. Occasionally, however, the 

 testis is placed in front of the tunica vaginalis, in a position 

 liable to injury, but its presence at this spot may be determined 

 by the position of the shadow cast when testing for translucency. 



THE SPERMATIC CORD. 



Inflammation of the Cord. In considering the question of 

 inflammation of the spermatic cord it may be well to note the 

 various structures which enter into its composition. 



The first is the vas, together with its artery, usually derived 



