Fertility and ovum transport after microsurgical removal of the uterotubal junction in rabbits.

The role of the uterotubal junction (UTJ) in fertility and ovum transport was investigated following unilateral microsurgical resection of the UTJ in 15 rabbits. Fourteen animals became pregnant on the UTJ resected side and 14 on the control side following artificial insemination and induction of ovulation. Fifty-two of 61 ova (85.2%) became implanted on the control side, and 56 of 68 ova (82.3%) became implanted on the resected side. Ten days after delivery, artificial insemination and induction of ovulation were repeated. Ovum transport was examined at 60, 66, and 72 hours. There was no significant difference in ovum transport between UTJ resected and control sides. The distribution of ova within the oviduct and the time of their entrance into the uterus was comparable in both sides. These results indicate that the UTJ is not necessary for normal fertility and ovum transport in the rabbit.