Ask An Expert: Wrapped Fallopian Tube

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Ask An Expert: Wrapped Fallopian Tube

Question:

I recently had a hysterectomy. The doctor said my fallopian tube was attached to my colon or wrapped around it. What would cause this, and is it serious?

Answer:

The pelvic organs including the uterus, tubes, bladder, and bowel normally have a slippery outer layer called the serosa.

The serosa allows the organs to move easily within the body as they perform their dynamic functions. For example, the fallopian tube gently sweeps up the egg after it is released from the ovary and transports it into the uterus by rhythmic contractions called peristalsis. Peristalsis is facilitated by the serosa and a small amount of lubricating fluid that forms in the pelvic cavity.

Inflammation from a variety of causes can damage the serosa and cause the formation of scar tissue called adhesions. Adhesions make the organs attach to each other in abnormal ways. Some adhesions cause no symptoms at all and are identified only at the time of surgery. Other times, adhesions cause pain by restricting the normal movement of the pelvic organs. Adhesions may make a hysterectomy a bit more difficult to perform, as they must be carefully cut away without damaging the involved organs. Occasionally, adhesions cause a blockage of the intestines, and surgery is required to relieve the obstruction.

Joan Bengtson, M.D., is assistant professor of obstetrics, gynecology and reproductive biology at Harvard Medical School and a member of the Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproduction at Brigham and Women's Hospital.

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Last updated:	January 24, 2007