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Fallopian Tubes

The Fallopian Tubes are a passage of tubules for the egg for the Female Reproduction between the Ovaries and the Uterus.

They are also known as Uterine Tubes, Salpinges, and Oviducts.

Each fallopian tube is loosely attached on one end to the Ovaries – while the opposite end attaches to the Uterus. An egg is released from the Ovary and it most often heads in the direction of the Fallopian Tubes

Fimbria then sweeps the egg from the ovary into the fallopian tubes. Within the fallopian tubes are Ciliated Epithelia that pushes the egg from the Ovary to the Uterus.

The tubes are typically are 7-14 cm in length.

4 Main Regions of the Tubes:

1.)  Infundibulum
2.)  Ampulla
3.)  Isthmus
4.)  Intramural oviduct

Function in Fertilization

–  As the ovum develops in the ovary – it becomes encapsulated in a sac.

–  The sac is known as an Ovarian Follicle

–  The egg is pushed towards the Ampulla of the Fallopian tube.

–  This is often where the sperm and the egg meet.

–  Fertilization occurs and the ovum + sperm become Zygote

–  Five days later – or so – the Zygote implants into the Uterine Wall – the Endometrium.

What is an Ectopic Pregnancy?

Occasionally the embryo implants into the Fallopian tube instead of the Uterus.

This creates an Ectopic Pregnancy, commonly known as a “tubal pregnancy“.

Ectopic Pregnancies can be a potentially life-threatening situation with possible vaginal bleeding, abdominal pain, or discomfort. Can be very severe pain in some cases.

Different Types of Surgeries Regarding Fallopian Tubes

1.)  The Surgical removal of a Fallopian Tube is called –  Salpingectomy

2.)  To remove both sides – Bilateral Salpingectomy

3.)  Removal of a Fallopian Tube and at least one Ovary –  Salpingo-Oophorectomy

4.)  Restoration of Fallopian Tube Obstruction –  Tuboplasty