Uterine (fallopian) tube

Tuba uterina

ReproductiveOrgansPelvisLeft and right

View left in 3D View right in 3D

Shown on the female body.

What it is

Slender muscular tube in the upper edge of the broad ligament running from the uterine corner (intramural part) through the narrow isthmus and the wide, curving ampulla to the funnel-shaped infundibulum over the ovary.

Function

Catches the ovulated egg, is the usual site of fertilisation (ampulla) and carries the early embryo to the uterus over 3–4 days by cilia and peristalsis.

Size

10–12 cm long; lumen about 1 mm at the isthmus and up to 1 cm in the ampulla.

Clinical note

The ampulla is the commonest site of ectopic pregnancy; tying or removing the tubes gives permanent contraception.