Abstract

PIP: Knowledge of the female reproductive system in classical times is reviewed briefly. Current knowledge of tubal physiology is explained in greater detail. This knowledge, which is relevant to the study of fertility and sterility, includes sections dealing with: 1) sperm transport; 2) sperm capacitation; 3) fertilization; and 4) ovum and embryo transport. Since human data for some of these areas is lacking, data obtained in the study of other species is used as a supplement. Although it is now believed that microsurgical plastic repair of the fallopian tubes is preferable to macrosurgery, the author maintains that this has not been proven. Proof would involve studies in which the skill of the surgeon, the degree of damage requiring repair, and the method of assessing results were all held constant. The pregnancy rates following microsurgery as compared to those obtained with macrosurgery do not seem to justify the cost, prolonged operating time, and increased risk of ectopic pregnancy associated with microsurgical procedures.