Oviduct

The mucosa has highly branched folds in the infundibulum and ampulla, dividing the lumen into channels. These folds diminish in the isthmus and intramural portions. Ciliated cells are most numerous in the infundibulum, whereas secretory cells predominate nearer the uterus. A muscularis mucosa is lacking, so the lamina propria and submucosa form a continuous connective tissue layer.

The mucosa has highly branched folds in the infundibulum and ampulla, dividing the lumen into channels. These folds diminish in the isthmus and intramural portions. Ciliated cells are most numerous in the infundibulum, whereas secretory cells predominate nearer the uterus. A muscularis mucosa is lacking, so the lamina propria and submucosa form a continuous connective tissue layer.

The muscularis exerna of the ampulla is described as having inner circular and outer longitudinal muscle layers, but these layers are not as well defined as they are in the digestive system. The larger blood vessels supplying the oviduct are seen surrounding this smooth muscle layer.

The oviduct is supported by the mesosalpinx, a portion of the broad ligament which is double-layered fold of peritoneum that also supports the uterus and ovary. It conveys blood vessels to these structures.

The oviduct is supported by the mesosalpinx, a portion of the broad ligament which is double-layered fold of peritoneum that also supports the uterus and ovary. It conveys blood vessels to these structures.

Oviduct — Because one of the functions of the oviduct is to transport oocytes to the site of fertilization, the oviduct must be at peak functional activity at the time of ovulation. Therefore, stimulated by estrogen secreted by the follicles from days 1-14 of the ovarian cycle, the ciliated and secretory cells of the oviductal epithelium are most active at ovulation.

The next image is similar to the area outlined by the rectangle.

This image was taken of a slide from the University of Cincinnati collection