Uterine Tube

ANATOMY

Females have two uterine tubes, a right and left. They are hollow tubes that are open on both ends.

The distal end of the uterine tube is the widest portion, known as the ampulla. The opening at the distal end of the uterine tube is called the infundibulum. Fringe-like projections called fimbriae extend from the infundibulum. The medial end of the uterine tube connects to the uterus and is narrower than the rest of the structure, a region known as the isthmus.

The inner lining of the uterine tube consists of ciliated epithelium. Smooth muscle makes up the middle layer, and the visceral peritoneum encases the outer periphery of the tubes.

PHYSIOLOGY

The fimbriae gently sweep across the surface of the ovary to assist the ovulated oocyte to enter the infundibulum. The ampulla of the uterine tube is the most common site of fertilization. Ciliary action and smooth muscle movement work together to move a fertilized egg down the uterine tube into the uterine cavity.

Figure 1: Illustration of the left uterine tube.