Dynamics of the ampullary-isthmic junction in rabbit oviduct

A delay in the ovum transport at the ampullary-isthmic junction (AIJ) has been confirmed by various investigators, but the mechanism of retention and release at this junction is not yet well understood. Using a technique for monitoring unobstructed Fallopian tube motility with an impedance plethysmograph, an increase in luminal diameter was observed at the time when the ova are released from the AIJ. This enlargement persists till all ova emerge from the AIJ. Hence, it seems likely that the AU relaxation is a dominant factor contributing to ova release from the AIJ.