Distinct vascular zones in the canine prostate

Abstract

The vascular bed of canine prostate was studied and detailed distinct vascular zones were visualized on corrosion casts by scanning electron microscopy. This study was performed because of scarce information about the zonal vascularization of the prostate gland in dogs. There are no studies for three-dimensional microvascular distribution of the capsular vessels and the capsular microvascular trabeculae. SEM (vascular corrosion casting method) was used to show 3D angioarchitecture of the prostate gland. The lobules on the dorsal and lateral surface of the gland were numerous but small. Their small size is probably due to the abundant blood supply in the region. Few but large ventral lobules were observed. Three prostatic zones were clearly defined: capsular, parenchyma, and urethral. The diameter of the venous blood vessel compared to arterial vessels of the capsule was smaller. Two types of arteries were observed in trabeculae: direct and branched. The direct arteries were straight, with only a few branches. The branched arteries contained many bifurcations, with the vessel's diameter decreasing gradually. The trabeculae capillary network formed loops, with frequent sphincter-like constrictions and pouch-like protuberances.