Obstructed Fallopian Tube Seen In A Section Of The Uterus

Description

Uterine cornu and proximal uterine (Fallopian) tube occupy the lateral margin of this sectional uterus, with the tubal lumen narrowed to a blind, pathologically occluded channel. Endometrium lines the uterine cavity medially, surrounded by concentric myometrium and an outer serosal contour, while the intramural and isthmic portions of the tube course laterally within the uterine wall before emerging toward the adnexa. At the site of obstruction, the lumen’s normal continuity is interrupted, contrasting with the expected patent tubal diameter and mucosal folding. Tubal occlusion remains a common structural cause of female factor infertility and a frequent endpoint of pelvic inflammatory disease, prior salpingitis, endometriosis, or post-surgical adhesions. Location matters: proximal obstruction near the uterotubal junction can prevent sperm and embryo transit, while partial or distal disease increases the risk of ectopic implantation and may present as hydrosalpinx with impaired implantation rates in assisted reproduction. A fixed sectional perspective through the uterine wall clarifies the relationship between the tubal course and adjacent myometrium, supporting teaching on why hysterosalpingography can demonstrate a “cutoff” and why selective tubal cannulation or laparoscopic assessment targets specific segments. A blocked lumen is never benign. Use this illustration for reproductive anatomy modules, infertility workups in OB-GYN texts, and patient-facing counseling materials explaining proximal tubal obstruction and its management options, including tubal cannulation, salpingostomy, salpingectomy before IVF, and differential diagnosis versus congenital tubal atresia. Anatomical accuracy verified by SciePro's Medical Advisory Board.