Ultrasound-Guided Minimally Invasive Interventions for Temporomandibular Joint Disorders: A Scoping Review

Background/Objectives: Ultrasound is increasingly used to guide minimally invasive interventions for temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders because it enables real-time visualization of the joint, surrounding tissues, and needle position. This scoping review aimed to map and characterize the available evidence on ultrasound-guided minimally invasive interventions for temporomandibular disorders (TMDs). Methods: The review followed PRISMA-ScR guidelines and was registered in the Open Science Framework (osf.io/r42m5). PubMed/MEDLINE, BASE, and Europe PMC were searched up to 4 April 2026. Original clinical and technical studies evaluating ultrasound-guided minimally invasive interventions for TMDs were included. Results: Seventeen studies published between 2012 and 2026 met the eligibility criteria. Ultrasound guidance was used mainly for intra-articular injections, arthrocentesis, and botulinum toxin injections into the lateral pterygoid muscle. Most studies reported reductions in pain and improvements in jaw function. Compared with conventional approaches, several included studies reported more accurate needle placement, fewer insertion attempts, less need for needle repositioning, and shorter procedure times when ultrasound guidance was used. However, these procedural advantages did not consistently translate into superior long-term clinical outcomes. Conclusions: Overall, ultrasound-guided minimally invasive TMJ interventions appear feasible and generally safe, with their main benefit being improved visualization and procedural precision. Further standardized, high-quality studies are needed to clarify their clinical impact.