The localization and connections of suboviductal lymphatic vessels in the bovine uterine broad ligament

Pol J Vet Sci. 2003;6(4):253-9.

Abstract

The distribution of oviductal lymphatic vessels in the bovine mesosalpinx and bursa ovarica, and their communications with other lymphatics in the uterine broad ligament were examined after exposition of all lymphatic pathways with varicoloured microfil and/or ink-gelatin mixture. However, filling of the lumen of the oviductal infundibulum lymphatics was difficult or impossible because of its slender walls. Lymphatics of the isthmus and ampulla with short precollectors formed branches 1.5-2.0 cm long on both sides: dorsal and ventral of the uterine broad ligament. Collectors with slender and long lymphangions, visible after filling their lumen, encircled the alymphatic area in the parainfundibullar mesosalpinx. The greatest number of lymphatic branches, which originated from the paraisthmal part of the oviductal ampulla were observed in the subovarian area. The characteristic feature was their immediate proximity with uterine and oviductal arterial vessels. Subsequent studies have provided convincing evidence that there are direct connections of lymphatics leaving the oviduct and ovarian sac with lymphatics emerging from the uterus and ovary (after bilateral filling of lymphatics pathways in the whole broad liagment of the uterus). The performed investigations showed particularly characteristic feature in the cow--mixing lymph leaving various reproductive organs in the area of the right and left ligament--before two long collector branches reach the nearest lymphatic node/-s.

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Broad Ligament / anatomy & histology*
  • Cattle / anatomy & histology*
  • Female
  • Lymph Nodes / anatomy & histology*
  • Lymphatic System / anatomy & histology