Inguinal canal

The inguinal canal passes downwards and medially from the internal to the external inguinal rings, parallel and immediately above the medial part of the inguinal ligament. It is 3-4 cm long and transmits the spermatic cord or round ligament. It represents the path of descent in the foetus of these structures from their position in the lower abdominal wall. It also transmits the ilio-inguinal nerve.

It is bordered by anterior and posterior walls, a roof and a floor.

The internal or deep inguinal ring lies at the proximal entrance to the inguinal ring. The external or superficial inguinal ring lies at the distal end of the inguinal canal.