Name the part of the fallopian tube that is connected to the uterus.

Appeared in: UP NHM CHO 7 Sept 2022 (Shift-2)

Explanation

The isthmus is the narrow, medial third of the fallopian tube that directly connects to the superolateral aspect (cornu) of the uterus.
It functions as a bridge, transporting the ovum or zygote from the ampulla into the uterine cavity.
Anatomically, it is located between the wider ampulla and the intramural part of the tube that passes through the uterine wall.

Option A: The infundibulum is the funnel-shaped opening of the fallopian tube located at the distal end, near the ovary. It is the furthest part from the uterus.
Option C: The ampulla is the longest and widest part of the fallopian tube, situated between the infundibulum and the isthmus. It does not directly connect to the uterus.
Option D: Fimbriae are the finger-like projections at the end of the infundibulum. Their function is to sweep the ovulated egg into the fallopian tube.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Anatomy of the Fallopian Tube as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Understanding the anatomy of the fallopian tube is critical for diagnosing and managing an ectopic pregnancy, a life-threatening condition where a fertilized egg implants outside the uterus, most commonly in the ampulla.
Knowledge of these parts is also essential for female sterilization procedures like tubal ligation, where the isthmus is often the site that is clipped, cut, or sealed to prevent sperm from reaching the egg.
What if? If a patient has scarring in the isthmus from Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID), the narrow passage can become blocked. This significantly increases the risk of an ectopic pregnancy because the embryo cannot pass through to the uterus.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the key anatomical structures in the question: 'fallopian tube' and 'uterus'.
The question asks for the specific part that 'connects' the tube to the uterus.
Mentally visualize or recall the anatomical sequence of the fallopian tube's segments, moving from the ovary towards the uterus.
The order is: Fimbriae/Infundibulum (near ovary) → Ampulla (middle part) → Isthmus (narrow part near uterus) → Intramural part (inside uterine wall).
Based on this sequence, the isthmus is the segment that joins the main tube to the uterus.
Review the options to confirm that Isthmus is the best fit among the choices provided.

Concept Tested & Keywords

Qv9w_9EixwPflo1Jy2_N9r

E6 Physiology Ganong 27e Vol 2 Part 3 p. 149-151

E6 Anatomy Applied Ashalatha 4e pp. 388-390, 389-391

Practise the full UP NHM CHO 7 Sept 2022 (Shift-2)

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.