Macro-microscopic examination of the valves of the deep dorsal vein of the human penis

Abstract

BACKGROUND: The study of the structure of the deep dorsal vein of the human penis has a long history but, so far, data on the presence of valves in it are contradictory. Contradictions and ambiguities in the functioning of the valvular apparatus of the deep dorsal vein, lack of information on the morphological structure of its valves, and the importance of the venous system in the physiology of erection motivated this study. AIM: To study the valves of the deep dorsal vein of the human penis. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The study of deep dorsal vein valves in 150 men was carried out, using macroscopic and microscopic methods, on autopsy material. Forty-seven trunks of the deep dorsal vein isolated using magnifying optics 3.5 from the coronal sulcus to the prostatic venous plexus and 103 fragments of the vein in cross section directly distal to the supporting ligament were studied. We used histological painting coloring with hematoxylin-eosin, funcionam with fuchsin, and Mallory. The obtained images of valves in longitudinal and cross sections were subjected to photo-registration and archiving for further study and analysis. RESULTS: Generally, the studied vein had one trunk, but in 7.3% of cases it had two trunks. Most often there was a division of the main trunk of the vein. Valves of the deep dorsal vein in the longitudinal section were detected in 89% of observations. On the cross section, the valve in 36% of cases was detected near the supporting ligament. Valves are represented most often by two flaps, at the base of which was a roller associated with the middle shell of the vein wall. The valves of the deep dorsal vein of the penis had the typical appearance of pocket type valves and did not prevent the outflow of venous blood from the cavernous bodies, blocking retrograde blood flow. CONCLUSIONS: Valves are an integral component of the deep dorsal vein of the human penis. The structure of the valves indicates that they prevent retrograde blood flow to the cavernous bodies, both at rest and during erection.