Which anatomical feature explains why varicocele is far more common on the left side than the right?
- A The left cremasteric pump is weaker than the right
- B The left testicular vein drains at a right angle into the left renal vein ✓
- C The left testicular vein drains directly into the inferior vena cava
- D The left spermatic cord has fewer venous valves
Correct answer: B. The left testicular vein drains at a right angle into the left renal vein
Explanation
The left internal spermatic vein enters the left renal vein at a right angle while the right vein enters the inferior vena cava obliquely, so the left column of blood is subject to greater hydrostatic pressure and compression by the renal vein between the aorta and superior mesenteric artery. This anatomy explains the left predominance of both varicocele and nutcracker phenomena.
Reference: Bailey and Love's Short Practice of Surgery, 27th ed.
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Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.