Quantitative Imaging of the Mandibular Condyle: Radiomics and Microarchitectural Biomarkers

Radiomics makes it possible to extract quantitative data from medical images, revealing details about tissue heterogeneity that are not apparent from visual evaluation alone. Conventional evaluation of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) imaging still primarily relies on qualitative morphological criteria that primarily detect late-stage structural alterations. This narrative review summarizes current evidence on quantitative imaging of the mandibular condyle and subchondral bone within the TMJ, with emphasis on radiomics applications using computed tomography (CT), cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Studies have shown that texture and morphometric features derived from CT and CBCT can reflect trabecular organization and subchondral remodelling, with some parameters validated against micro-computed tomography in experimental settings. MRI-based approaches are particularly sensitive to changes in subchondral bone marrow, especially in inflammatory and degenerative conditions, even when morphological alterations are subtle or absent. Radiomic features can detect patterns associated with joint degeneration and adaptation across imaging modalities. However, variability in acquisition protocols, segmentation methods, and limited longitudinal data still restrict their clinical application. At present, quantitative imaging should be considered a research tool that may support the development of imaging biomarkers and contribute to a better understanding of TMJ disease.