Fallopian (Uterine) Tubes Flashcards
structure of the fallopean tubes
the fallopian tube is described as having four parts (lateral to medial);
Fimbriae – finger-like, ciliated projections which capture the ovum from the surface of the ovary.
Infundibulum – funnel-shaped opening near the ovary to which fimbriae are attached.
Ampulla – widest section of the uterine tubes. Fertilization usually occurs here.
Isthmus – narrow section of the uterine tubes connecting the ampulla to the uterine cavity.
unctions of teh fallopean tube
The main function of the uterine tubes is to assist in the transfer and transport of the ovum from the ovary, to the uterus.
The ultra-structure of the uterine tubes facilitates the movement of the female gamete:
The inner mucosa is lined with ciliated columnar epithelial cells and peg cells (non-ciliated secretory cells). They waft the ovum towards the uterus and supply it with nutrients.
Smooth muscle layer contracts to assist with transportation of the ova and sperm. Muscle is sensitive to sex steroids, and thus peristalsis is greatest when oestrogen levels are high.
what do the fallopean tubes do
The uterine tubes (or fallopian tubes, oviducts, salpinx) are muscular ‘J-shaped’ tubes, found in the female reproductive tract.
They lie in the upper border of the broad ligament, extending laterally from the uterus, opening into the abdominal cavity, near the ovaries.
