Typically, the concept 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 kinds of hearing loss, especially those coping with chronic ear problems or single-sided deafness, a distinct kind of technology could provide better quality and comfort: bone conduction hearing devices.
The Capability of Bone Conduction Hearing Devices
Bone conduction hearing devices function by bypassing the outer and middle ear. Rather than transmitting sound through the air, they transmit vibrations through the bones of the head to the inner ear (cochlea), where the sound is processed. This allows sound to reach the auditory nerve even if there is an obstruction or injury in the ear canal. Think of it like this: If you’ve ever stopped up your ears and still been able to hear your voice when talking, that’s bone conduction.
Bone Conduction vs. Conventional Hearing Aids
Conventional hearing aids boost sound and funnel it through the ear canal. This strategy is especially effective for individuals who have experienced damage to the inner ear or the nerve responsible for transferring sound, causing sensorineural hearing loss. On the other hand, if there are problems with the outer or middle ear caused by infection, fluid collection, or structural problems, conventional hearing aids might not work well or be comfortable. Bone conduction hearing devices are often a more reliable alternative 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 difficulty traveling through the outer or middle ear at all.
- Chronic ear infections or drainage problems, where conventional hearing aids could worsen the condition.
- People with flawed ear canals or the absence of outer ears, who may not qualify for traditional devices.
- A condition known as unilateral deafness, where a person experiences significant or complete hearing loss in one ear. These devices offer a non-invasive alternative that is often more comfortable, particularly for kids and adults who have recurring ear issues.
Implantable vs. Non-Implantable Options:
There are two main types of bone conduction hearing devices:
- Non-implantable (worn externally): These are usually held in place with a headband, softband, or adhesive pad. They are excellent for kids, people experimenting with bone conduction for the first time, or people who are not prepared for surgery.
- Surgically embeded devices consist of a tiny device inserted beneath the skin, which is linked to a separate sound processor worn outside the body. Long-term users often find that they supply more effective and dependable results. Your audiologist or ENT specialist can help determine which option is right based upon your age, anatomy, and hearing goals.
Key Benefits of Bone Conduction Hearing Devices
- Comfortable for sensitive ears– no need to place anything inside the ear canal
- Good audio quality stays consistent, despite recurring issues with the ears
- Ideal for people with distinct physical characteristics – this option is particularly beneficial for individuals with congenital conditions impacting the outer ear or other anatomical variations.
- Enhanced communication– particularly in school, work, or noisy environments
If you or your child has difficulty hearing in one or both ears, particularly because of recurring infections or problems with sound transmission, it might be beneficial 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
