Typically, the idea of hearing aids invokes the idea of traditional devices that boost sound through the canal of the ear. But for people with specific types of hearing loss, particularly those coping with persistent ear problems or single-sided deafness, a different kind of technology could offer better clarity and comfort: bone conduction hearing devices.
The Functionality of Bone Conduction Hearing Devices
With bone conduction hearing devices, the outer and middle ear are bypassed. 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 get to the auditory nerve even if there is an obstruction or injury in the ear canal. Think of it this way: If you’ve ever stopped up your ears and still been able to hear your voice when speaking, that’s bone conduction.
Bone Conduction vs. Traditional Hearing Aids
Conventional hearing aids boost sound and direct it through the ear canal. This works well for individuals who have sensorineural hearing loss, where the inner ear or auditory nerve is compromised. However, if there are issues with the outer or middle ear dued to infection, fluid accumulation, or structural concerns, conventional hearing aids might not work efficiently or be comfortable. Bone conduction hearing devices are often a better solution in these cases because they skip over the problem areas and deliver sound straight to your cochlea.
Bone Conduction Candidates
Bone conduction devices are helpful for:
- Sound waves are unable to pass through the outer or middle ear, leading to conductive hearing loss.
- Relentless ear infections or problems with fluid drainage could be intensified by conventional hearing aids.
- People with misshapen ear canals or missing outer ears, who might not be prospects for traditional devices.
- Single-sided deafness (SSD), where one ear has profound hearing loss or no hearing. These devices provide a non-invasive alternative that is frequently more comfortable, particularly for children and adults with persisting ear issues.
Options that include implantable and non-implantable techniques:
There are two primary types of bone conduction hearing devices:
- External non-implantable devices are generally secured with a headband, softband, or adhesive pad. They’re suitable for children, those trying bone conduction for the first time, or people not ready for surgery.
- Implantable (surgically placed): These devices include a small implant under the skin that connects to an external sound processor. They usually offer more robust performance and reliability for long-term users. A professional assessment by an audiologist or ENT specialist will identify the most suitable solution for you, taking into account your age, particular anatomy, and personal hearing objectives.
Key Benefits of Bone Conduction Hearing Devices
- Ideal for sensitive ears – does not necessitate insertion into the ear canal
- Clear sound quality, despite having persistent ear problems
- Perfect for people with distinct physical attributes – this option is especially helpful for individuals with congenital conditions impacting the outer ear or other physiological variations.
- Improved communication is especially beneficial in instructional settings, professional environments, or loud surroundings
If you or your child has difficulty hearing in one or both ears, particularly because of ongoing infections or problems with sound transmission, it may be helpful to think about bone conduction hearing devices.
Schedule a consultation 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