Microscopic Structure

Ciliated Epithelium

Forms the inner lining of the tube uterus and this assist in the passage of the ovum into the uterus.

The epithelium is arranged in folds known as plicae which slow down the journey of the fertilized ovum thus giving it time to develop and so be ready for embedding when it reaches the uterus.

Connective Tissue

Lies between the epithelium.

Muscle Layer

Arranged in two layers

• • Inner Lining of the Circular Fiber
  • Outer Layer of the Longitudinal Fiber

Peristaltic movement is due to these muscles which propels the ovum along the tube.

Peritoneum

Hang over the tube but it is absent in their inferior surface.

Blood Supply

From the ovarian & uterine arteries.

Venous Drainage

Into corresponding vein.

Lymphatic Drainage

Into lumbar gland

Nerve Supply

By both motor and sensory parasympathetic and sympathetic nerves, the nerve supply is by the ovarian plexus.

Relations of the Fallopian Tube

Anterior

Posterior

The peritoneal cavity and the intestines.

Superiorly

Inferiorly

Are the broad ligaments and side walls of the pelvis.

Lateral

Infundibulo-pelvic ligament and side walls of the pelvis.

Medial

The uterus.

Supports

The Infundibulo-pelvic ligament these are fold of the broad ligament and run from the Infundibulum of the tube to the side walls of the pelvis.

Functions

• The tube forms the canal through which the ovum and sperms can pass and unite and commence early development (fertilization).
• Propels the fertilized ovum towards the uterus.
• Provides nourishment to the fertilized ovum.
• Passage of the ovum from ovary to the uterus or fertilized ovum to the uterus.

Obstetrical Conditions Associated with Fallopian Tube

Infertility

Investigation show that 30% of women come in infertility clinic.

Pregnancy has been prevented by the obstruction in the fallopian tube which may be partial or complete obstruction due to previous tubal or generalized pelvic inflammation which may result to scarring after inflammation leading to (sterility) infertility.

Ectopic Gestation

When the fertilized ovum remains in the tube and continues to develop, rupture of the tube occurs due to ruptured Ectopic pregnancy.

Sterilization

When further pregnancies are likely to endanger the life (health) of the mother. The obstetrician may carry out an operation containing the clumping and cutting of each fallopian tube and each cut end is then ligatured and buried, there is then no opportunity for the ovum and the sperm to meet and fertilization will not occur.