The Fallopian Tubes

The Fallopian Tubes

Functions

Propels the ovum towards uterus , receives spermatozoa, provides site for fertilization. Supplies nutrition to the fertilized ovum during its travel to the uterus

Position

Extends laterally from the cornua of the uterus –ar ches over the ovaries with the finbriated ends hanging near ovaries to receive the ovum

Relations

Anterior, posterior and superior are the peritoneal cavity and intestines

Lateral –  sidewalls of the pelvisd

Inferior – broad ligaments and ovaries lie below thetubes

Medial –  uterus lies between fallopian tubes

Supports fallopian tubes are held in place by theirattachments to the uterus

Structure

Structure each tube measures 10cm long ,lumen of thetube provides open pathway from outside to the peritoneal cavity. The fallopian tube has four portions

·              The Intestinal portion – 1.25cm inside uterine wall lumen 1mm wide

·              The Isthmus - narrow part 2,.5cm from cornua of the uterus

·              The Ampulla – wider portion 5cm longit extends from the isthmus to the infundibulum usually fertilization takes place here

·              The Infundibulum – funnel shaped finged and which is attached to the ovary. It is about 2.5 cm long; one is known as the fimbrae. One of it extends to the ovary and is known as the fimbria ovarica

Layers - Lining in mucus membrane - ciliated cubicalepithelium. Beneath this vascular, connective tissue, muscular layer and covering is peritoneum.

Blood supply - from uterine and ovarian arteries by the corresponding vein

Lymphatic drainage is to lumbar glands

Nerve supply - from ovarian plexus