What are the main parts of the uterine tube?

The uterine tube has four parts from lateral to medial: Infundibulum (1 cm, funnel-shaped with fimbriae), Ampulla (5 cm, longest and widest, site of fertilization), Isthmus (2.5–3 cm, narrow and muscular near the uterus), and Intramural (1 cm, traverses the uterine wall).

How does the uterine tube transport an ovum?

The uterine tube transports an ovum using ciliated columnar epithelium to propel it and muscular contractions from smooth muscle layers, with fimbriae aiding in capture from the ovary.

What is the clinical significance of the uterine tube in fertility?

The uterine tube is vital for fertility, serving as the site of fertilization in the ampulla and for ovum transport. Inflammation (salpingitis) can lead to tubal block and infertility, with tests like hysterosalpingography used to assess patency.

What is an ectopic pregnancy and how is it related to the uterine tube?

An ectopic pregnancy is when a fertilized egg implants outside the uterus, often in the uterine tube (tubal gestation), which may rupture and cause internal bleeding and severe pain.

What are the blood supply and nerve supply to the uterine tube?

Blood supply: Arterial from uterine artery (medial two-thirds) and ovarian artery (lateral one-third), with venous drainage via uterine and ovarian veins. Nerve supply: Sympathetic from ovarian and superior hypogastric plexuses (T11–L2), parasympathetic via vagus (lateral) and pelvic splanchnic nerves (S2–S4).

What is salpingitis and how does it affect the uterine tube?

Salpingitis is inflammation of the uterine tube, typically from infections, which can cause tubal block and result in secondary infertility by hindering ovum transport and fertilization.

What are the tests used to check uterine tube patency?

Tests for uterine tube patency include Rubin’s test (air insufflation to detect air leak) and hysterosalpingography (radiopaque dye to visualize spillage into the peritoneum).

Uterine Tube – Parts & Ectopic Pregnancy

❓ Frequently Asked Questions