retruded

Retruded is an adjective meaning pulled back or set back from a reference position. It describes something that is positioned posteriorly or recessed relative to another structure. The term comes from the Latin retrudere, meaning to push back.

In medical and anatomical contexts, retruded describes the relative position of parts of the body. A common usage is in dentistry and orthodontics, where it often refers to a jaw that is positioned posteriorly relative to the upper jaw or the cranial base. A retruded or retrognathic mandible is one where the lower jaw sits behind its typical alignment, which can affect bite, facial profile, and sometimes airway space. The concept of retrusion can also apply to teeth, dental arches, or other skull bones when their position is posterior to a standard reference.

Diagnosis of retrusion typically involves imaging and measurements. Cephalometric radiographs, cone-beam computed tomography, and other imaging modalities help determine the degree of posterior displacement relative to craniofacial norms. Clinicians assess aesthetic, functional, and airway implications to determine appropriate management.

Treatment considerations depend on the severity and patient needs. In growing patients, orthodontic or functional appliances may encourage forward growth or alignment. In adults, options can include orthodontics combined with orthognathic surgery to reposition the jaw. The goal is to improve occlusion, facial balance, and, when relevant, airway function. Outside dentistry, retruded can describe any structure that is recessed or situated toward the back relative to another reference point in anatomical descriptions.