The length of the fallopian tube ranges from?

Appeared in: AIIMS Patna NO - 2020

Explanation

The average length of an adult fallopian tube is approximately 10 to 12 cm.
The option '7-12 cm' is the only range that accurately includes the standard anatomical length of the fallopian tube.
The fallopian tube consists of four segments: the infundibulum, ampulla, isthmus, and interstitial part, whose combined lengths fall within this range.

Option A: This range is more than double the actual length of a fallopian tube.
Option C: This range is excessively long and does not correspond to the anatomy of the fallopian tube.
Option D: This range is too short. The ampulla, which is just one part of the fallopian tube, is typically 5-7 cm long by itself.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Anatomy of the female reproductive system, specifically the dimensions of the fallopian (uterine) 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, as the ampulla is the most common site for implantation outside the uterus.
Knowledge of tubal length and structure is essential for performing surgical procedures like tubal ligation (female sterilization) and for evaluating tubal patency in infertility assessments (e.g., hysterosalpingogram).
What if? If a patient has a history of Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID), the inflammation can cause scarring and adhesions within the tube. This can lead to blockage or impaired ciliary function, significantly increasing the risk of infertility or ectopic pregnancy, even if the tube's overall length remains unchanged.

How to Approach the Question

This is a factual recall question testing your knowledge of anatomy.
First, identify the specific anatomical structure mentioned: the fallopian tube.
Recall the standard average length of this structure. The accepted average is around 10 cm.
Scan the given options to find the numerical range that includes your recalled value.
The range '7-12 cm' is the only option that correctly brackets the average length of 10 cm.
Eliminate the other options as they are either too short (2-7 cm) or far too long (22-27 cm, 28-31 cm).

Concept Tested & Keywords

Concept Tested: Anatomy of the female reproductive system, specifically the dimensions of the fallopian (uterine) tube.
Stem keywords: length, fallopian tube
Lead-in keywords: ranges from

QJ6gts1UvkF3G8r-J8xK6R

E6 Gynecology Williams p. 390-397

E6 Anatomy Applied Ashalatha 4e p. 389-391

Practise the full AIIMS Patna NO - 2020

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