mandibular ramus
The vertical portion of the lower jaw bone extending upward from the body of the mandible.
Full Definition
The mandibular ramus is the quadrilateral vertical portion of the mandible that extends upward from the posterior end of the mandibular body. It serves as the attachment site for muscles of mastication and contains the mandibular foramen through which the inferior alveolar nerve passes. In oral maxillofacial surgery, the ramus is a critical anatomical landmark for procedures involving jaw reconstruction, orthognathic surgery, and nerve blocks. Proper identification and preservation of ramus anatomy is essential for maintaining jaw function and avoiding nerve injury.
Usage
Usage note: Always specify left or right when documenting clinical findings involving the mandibular ramus.
In Context
- "The surgeon carefully dissected along the mandibular ramus to access the temporomandibular joint." — Operative report
- "Radiographic evaluation revealed a fracture extending through the left mandibular ramus." — Diagnostic imaging report