Typically, the idea of hearing aids invokes the idea of traditional devices that raise the volume of sound through the canal of the ear. But for people with certain types of hearing loss, particularly those dealing with persistent ear issues or single-sided deafness, a different kind of technology could offer better quality and comfort: bone conduction hearing devices.
How Bone Conduction Hearing Devices Work
Bone conduction hearing devices function by bypassing the outer and middle ear. Rather than transmitting sound through the air, they transfer vibrations through the bones of the head to the inner ear (cochlea), where the sound is processed. This allows sound to get to 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 been able to hear your voice when talking, that’s bone conduction.
Bone Conduction vs. Traditional Hearing Aids
Conventional hearing aids amplify sound and funnel it through the ear canal. This works well for individuals who have sensorineural hearing loss, where the inner ear or auditory nerve is damaged. On the other hand, if there are issues with the outer or middle ear caused by infection, fluid collection, or structural problems, standard hearing aids may not work efficiently or be comfortable. Bone conduction hearing devices can be a more effective option in such scenarios as they avoid the problematic areas and transfer sound directly to the cochlea.
Best Candidates For Bone Conduction
Bone conduction devices are beneficial for:
- Conductive hearing loss, when sound has trouble moving through the outer or middle ear at all.
- Persistent ear infections or problems with fluid drainage could be aggravated by conventional hearing aids.
- Individuals with deformed ear canals or the absence of outer ears, who may not qualify for conventional devices.
- A condition known as unilateral deafness, where an individual experiences substantial or complete hearing loss in one ear. These devices offer a non-invasive option that is frequently more comfortable, especially for kids and adults with recurring ear problems.
Implantable vs. Non-Implantable Solutions:
There are two primary categories of bone conduction choices: Implantable and non-implantable devices.
- Non-implantable (worn externally): These are typically kept in place with a headband, softband, or adhesive pad. They’re suitable for children, individuals trying out bone conduction for the first time, or individuals not ready for surgery.
- Surgically implanted devices involve a tiny device placed beneath the skin, which is connected to a separate sound processor worn outside the body. They usually offer more robust performance and reliability for long-term users. Your audiologist or ENT specialist can help decide which option is right based upon your age, anatomy, and hearing goals.
Perks of Using Bone Conduction Hearing Devices
- Comfortable for sensitive ears– no need to put anything into the ear canal
- Great audio quality stays consistent, despite recurring problems with the ears
- Ideal for those with distinct physical attributes – this option is especially beneficial for people with congenital conditions affecting the outer ear or other physiological variations.
- Enhanced communication is especially beneficial in educational settings, professional environments, or loud surroundings
If you or your child has difficulty hearing in one or both ears, especially because of recurring infections or problems with sound transmission, it may be helpful to consider bone conduction hearing devices.
Set up an assessment with a hearing specialist today.
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