Which muscle's resection could lead to airway restriction?

Resection of the genioglossus muscle can lead to airway restriction because this muscle plays a critical role in controlling the position of the tongue. The genioglossus is the largest muscle of the tongue, and its primary function is to protrude the tongue and prevent it from falling backward into the oropharynx, especially during sleep. If this muscle is compromised through surgical resection, the tongue may collapse posteriorly, which can obstruct the airway and lead to difficulties in breathing.

In contrast, while the masseter, mylohyoid, and temporalis muscles have important functions related to mastication and jaw movement, they do not have the same direct influence on maintaining airway patency as the genioglossus. Therefore, their resection would not typically result in airway restriction in the same way.