From the Research
The fallopian tubes are not directly connected to the round ligament, but they have important anatomical relationships with both the round and broad ligaments in the female reproductive system. The broad ligament is a sheet-like fold of peritoneum that extends from the lateral walls of the uterus to the sides of the pelvic cavity, forming a mesentery for the uterus. The fallopian tubes run within the upper free margin of the broad ligament, which is called the mesosalpinx. This portion of the broad ligament envelops and supports the fallopian tubes, providing them with blood supply and structural stability.
The round ligament, on the other hand, is a fibromuscular band that extends from the lateral aspect of the uterus, anterior and inferior to where the fallopian tube attaches to the uterus. According to the most recent study 1, the round ligament passes under the broad ligament and reaches the inguinal canal, but its distal attachment is not constant and can be found in different areas, including after the external inguinal ring, before the internal inguinal ring, or under the pubic bone.
Key points about the anatomical relationships between the fallopian tubes, round ligament, and broad ligament include:
- The fallopian tubes are supported by the broad ligament, specifically within the mesosalpinx.
- The round ligament does not directly connect to the fallopian tube but is located in close proximity at their uterine attachments.
- The round ligament's path under the broad ligament and through the inguinal canal is well established, but its exact distal attachment can vary.
- Understanding these anatomical relationships is crucial for surgical procedures involving the uterus and adnexa, as highlighted in studies such as 2, which discusses laparoscopic-assisted vaginal hysterectomy techniques.
In clinical practice, recognizing the connections and relationships between these structures is vital for minimizing complications and ensuring the best outcomes in gynecological surgeries, as well as for understanding and managing conditions that may affect these areas, such as ectopic pregnancies or tubal damage, as discussed in 3.