When most people think of hearing aids, they think of conventional devices that amplify sound through the ear canal. But for individuals with specific types of hearing loss, especially those dealing with persistent ear problems or single-sided deafness, a distinct type of technology could provide better clarity and comfort: bone conduction hearing devices.
How Bone Conduction Hearing Devices Work
With bone conduction hearing devices, the outer and middle ear are bypassed. Rather than depending on airwaves to convey sound, these devices utilize the skull’s bones to channel vibrations directly to the cochlea, the inner ear’s sound-processing center. This allows sound to reach the auditory nerve even when there is a blockage or injury in the ear canal. Think of it like this: If you’ve ever plugged your ears and still heard your voice when speaking, that’s bone conduction.
Bone Conduction vs. Conventional Hearing Aids
Conventional hearing aids increase sound and direct it into the ear canal. This approach is particularly helpful for individuals who have experienced damage to the inner ear or the nerve responsible for transmitting sound, resulting in sensorineural hearing loss. However, if there are problems with the outer or middle ear caused by infection, fluid accumulation, or structural concerns, standard hearing aids may not work efficiently or be comfortable. Bone conduction hearing devices can be a more effective option in such situations as they steer clear of the problematic areas and transmit sound directly to the cochlea.
Best Candidates For Bone Conduction
Bone conduction devices are helpful for:
- Conductive hearing loss, when sound has difficulty traveling through the outer or middle ear at all.
- Persistent ear infections or issues with fluid drainage could be intensified by traditional hearing aids.
- People with deformed ear canals or the absence of outer ears, who may not qualify for traditional devices.
- A condition known as unilateral deafness, where an individual experiences significant or complete hearing loss in one ear. These devices offer a non-invasive alternative that is often more comfortable, particularly for children and adults who have recurring ear issues.
Implantable vs. Non-Implantable Solutions:
There are two primary categories of bone conduction options: Implantable and non-implantable devices.
- Non-implantable (worn externally): These are usually held in place with a headband, softband, or sticky pad. They are excellent for kids, people experimenting with bone conduction for the first time, or individuals who are not prepared for surgery.
- Implantable (surgically installed): These devices consist of a small implant under the skin that connects to an external sound processor. Long-term users often find that they provide more robust and dependable results. Your audiologist or ENT specialist can help determine which option is appropriate based on your age, anatomy, and hearing goals.
Key Advantages of Bone Conduction Hearing Devices
- Suitable for sensitive ears – does not necessitate insertion into the ear canal
- Great audio quality stays consistent, in spite of recurring problems with the ears
- Ideal for those with distinct physical characteristics – this option is especially helpful for people with congenital conditions affecting the outer ear or other anatomical variations.
- Improved communication is particularly advantageous in instructional settings, professional environments, or noisy surroundings
If you or your child has difficulty hearing in one or both ears, especially because of ongoing infections or issues with sound transmission, it may be helpful to consider bone conduction hearing devices.
Make an appointment with an audiologist today to get more information.
Sources: https://www.dukehealth.org/treatments/ear-nose-and-throat/bone-conduction-hearing-aid https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/treatment-tests-and-therapies/baha–the-implantable- hearing-device https://www.ndcs.org.uk/advice-and-support/all-advice-and-support-topics/hearing-aids- implants-and-assistive-technology/ hearing-aids-and-implants/ bone-conduction-devices https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/14794-bone-anchored-auditory-implant