Mesosalpinx

Mesosalpinx is the portion of the broad ligament of the uterus that suspends and encloses the fallopian tube, forming the mesentery of the tube. It lies between the mesovarium, which attaches to the ovary, and the mesometrium, which forms the main part of the broad ligament adjacent to the uterus. The fallopian tube runs within the mesosalpinx along its length, from the region near the uterine cornua to the fimbrial end near the ovary.

Anatomy and contents: The mesosalpinx contains vessels and nerves that supply the uterine tube, including tubal branches of the ovarian and uterine arteries, along with accompanying veins, lymphatics, and nerve fibers. It provides a conduit for these vessels to reach the tube and contributes to the tube’s support and mobility within the pelvis.

Function: By forming a mesentery for the fallopian tube, the mesosalpinx helps maintain the tube’s position relative to the uterus and ovary, facilitating tubal movement and alignment that are important for ovum capture and potential fertilization.

Clinical notes: Pathologies are typically described in relation to the broad ligament or fallopian tube; the mesosalpinx itself may be involved in inflammatory adhesions or surgical procedures affecting the uterus, ovaries, or tubes. In anatomy, it is one of the three subdivisions of the broad ligament, the others being the mesometrium and the mesovarium.