Uterine (Fallopian) tube

Overview

The uterine tube extends from the uterine wall through the upper broad ligament toward the ovary. Its open fimbrial end receives the ovulated oocyte, and the wider ampulla is the usual site of fertilization. Ciliated and secretory epithelial cells work with smooth-muscle activity to support transport toward the uterine cavity.

Reference facts

Location

The tube follows the superior margin of the broad ligament, supported by the mesosalpinx, from the uterine horn toward the mobile ovarian region.

Parts

Moving toward the uterus, its regions are fimbrial infundibulum, wide ampulla, narrow isthmus and the intramural segment crossing the uterine wall.

Blood supply

Tubal branches from ovarian and uterine arteries meet within the mesosalpinx, supplying the wall from its lateral and medial sides.

Innervation

Autonomic fibers arrive through ovarian and uterovaginal pathways. Visceral afferents associated with the tube project toward lower thoracic and upper lumbar levels.

Venous/Lymphatic drainage

Venous return follows ovarian and uterine channels. Lymphatic routes predominantly accompany the ovarian vessels to lumbar nodes, with pelvic connections as well.

Relations

Its lateral segments curve near the ovary, while the round and ovarian ligaments attach near the uterine horn below the tube. Nearby bowel relations vary with pelvic position.

Function

The fimbriae help receive the oocyte, the lumen supports fertilization, and epithelial plus muscular activity moves gametes and the early embryo along the tract.

Frequently asked questions