Fundus -- why does it seem that it means different things

April 3, 2004

Hi,

I've noticed that some of the medical reports that women have posted

to the list have used the term fundus, seemingly to refer to

different things. In Merck's Manual they say that the fundus is the

top of the uterus, the part between the fallopian tubes at the top.

This diagram below demonstrates what I'm talking about.

But I've also found mention of this term to mean " Latin word for the

bottom. In medicine, fundus refers to the bottom or base of an organ. "

So, which is it? Since (using the first definition) if it refers to

the top of the uterus, and my understanding of it is that having

fibroids in that part of the uterus is worse (not sure why), don't

you think that doctors ought to be more careful in their use of

terminology? It could mean the difference in treatment down the road

if they know if the body or top of the uterus was operated on -- no?

(Roma, do you know?)

--Ann

April 3, 2004

Hi, Ann, the first site supplies the correct definition of the fundus of the

uterus, that is, the uppermost rounded portion, slightly above the openings for

the Fallopian tubes.

The second definition of fundus is correct as far as it goes, but should have

continued on to say that the fundus is the bottom of or part OPPOSITE or

farthest from the aperture, or opening of a hollow organ.

I hope this helps!

Fundus -- why does it seem that it means different

things

In Merck's Manual they say that the fundus is the

top of the uterus, the part between the fallopian tubes at the top.

This diagram below demonstrates what I'm talking about.

But I've also found mention of this term to mean " Latin word for the

bottom. In medicine, fundus refers to the bottom or base of an organ. "

So, which is it? (Roma, do you know?)

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