• The ductus deferens, which is found in the male, is approximately 45 cm long and runs

from the tail of the epididymis inferiorly to the duct of the seminal vesicle superiorly.

• It transports sperm from the epididymis to the ejaculatory duct, which it forms on joining
with the duct of the seminal vesicle.

• The initial part is highly convoluted, but it becomes straighter as it progresses up along
the posterior aspect of the testis running medial to the epididymis.

• At the superior pole of the epididymis, it enters the spermatic cord and continues through
the inguinal canal.

• At the deep inguinal ring, it separates from the spermatic cord and passes lateral to the
inferior epigastric artery. It also runs along the anterior aspect of the external iliac artery.

• After approximately 2.5 cm, it turns and continues inferomedially to cross the external
iliac vessels.

• It then proceeds posterior to the obturator nerve and vessels, the vesical vessels, and the
ureter. It then passes between the bladder and the superior pole of the seminal vesicle
where it meets the contralateral ductus deferens.

• The junction of the ducts is located posteriorly, between the base of the bladder and the
rectum, but separated from the latter by the rectovesical fascia. From here, it descends
into the base of the prostate and joins the duct of the seminal vesicle to form the
ejaculatory duct.

• The ductus deferens has a thick wall and small lumen, making it feel cord-like when
grasped, for much of its length.

• As it passes posterior to the bladder, it widens and becomes more tortuous, this portion
of the ductus deferens is called the ampulla. It then narrows again to join the duct of the
seminal vesicle.

Blood Supply

• Artery of the ductus deferens, a small branch of the superior (occasionally the inferior)
vesical artery.

Venous Drainage

• Vein of the ductus deferens.

Nerve Supply

• Autonomic fibers from the inferior hypogastric plexus.