[Post-operative developments after resection of the mandibular body or angle for mandibular protrusion]

Teleradiographic examinations were conducted pre- and postoperatively and one year after resection of the body (5 cases) or angle (10 cases) of the mandible for mandibular protrusion in 15 patients. Clinical results of these operations appeared to be very stable, but teleradiographic modifications were observed constantly after one year. Resection of the body has little effect on the position of the ascending rami, whereas angle resection usually results in parasitic movements in this region, their pre-operative condition being re-established in practically all cases. Following shortening of the body there is an almost constant drop in the symphysial region. These movements appear to arise from activity of masticatory and suprahyoid muscles, with an accessory role being played by the tongue.