Anatomy
Fringes/fingers projecting from widened lateral end (infundibulum) of fallopian tube, closely associated with ovary. One muscular fimbria – fimbria ovarica – is attached to the ovary. Fimbriae lined internally with millions of tiny hair-like cilia.
Physiology
Fimbria ovarica contracts at ovulation, pulling the tube more tightly towards the ovary. Cilia beat rapidly, creating current to draw egg into tube.
Clinical
Disruption of fallopian tube function – such as by adhesions/scarring following pelvic inflammatory disease – can prevent egg entering tube or progressing within. Failure of fertilisation can result, or ectopic pregnancy (ie outside uterine cavity) including tubal and abdominal pregnancy; rarely viable, often dangerous with risk of hemorrhage.
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