L3.3.2.1: Uterine (Fallopian) Tube

• Uterine (Fallopian) Tubes

  ● Form the initial part of the duct system

  ● Enclosed and supported by:

  ➔ Broad ligaments

  ● Receive the ovulated oocyte from the ovaries via the:

  ➔ Infundibulum = Distal funnel shaped end that has projections

  called;

  ➔ Fimbriae = Surround the ovary and create fluid currents to carry the

  oocyte into the uterine tube

  ➔ Cilia = Continuously transport the oocyte
• Uterine (Fallopian) Tubes

  ● Provides a site for fertilization in the;

  ➔ Ampulla = Where the union between egg and sperm occur

  ● Extend and take the fertilized zygote medially from the ovaries to the superior region of the uterus

  ● There is little to no contact between the uterine tubes and the ovaries

  ➔ Acts as a passageway
• Uterine (Fallopian) Tubes

  ○ Initial part of the duct system

  ○ Receives the ovulated oocyte and provides a site where fertilization can occur.

  ○ Each tube is about 10cm long and extends medially from the ovary to empty into the superior region of the uterus.

  ○ Supported and enclosed by the broad ligament.

  ○ Little or no actual contact between uterine tubes and the ovaries.
• UTERINE TUBE STRUCTURE

  ● Infundibulum

  ○ Distal, funnel-shaped end.

  ● Fimbriae

  ○ Fingerlike projections of the infundibulum that partially surround the ovary.

  ○ Receive the oocyte from the ovary.

  ○ Cilia located inside the uterine tube transport the oocyte.

  ● As an oocyte is expelled from an ovary during ovulation, the

  waving fimbriae create fluid currents that carry the oocyte into

  the uterine tube, where it begins its journey toward the uterus.