When most people think of hearing aids, they picture traditional devices that amplify sound through the ear canal. But for individuals with certain types of hearing loss, especially those dealing with chronic ear problems or single-sided deafness, a distinct type 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 transfer 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 about this example: When you put your hands over your ears and are still able to hear the sound of your own voice when talking, that’s an example of bone conduction at work.
Bone Conduction vs. Traditional Hearing Aids
Standard hearing aids increase sound and send it into the ear canal. This works well for individuals who have sensorineural hearing loss, where the inner ear or auditory nerve is damaged. However, 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 situations as they avoid the problematic regions and transfer sound directly to the cochlea.
Bone Conduction Candidates
Bone conduction devices are beneficial for:
- Sound waves are unable to travel through the outer or middle ear, resulting in conductive hearing loss.
- Relentless ear infections or problems with fluid drainage could be intensified by traditional hearing aids.
- People with misshapen ear canals or missing outer ears, who may not be prospects for traditional devices.
- Single-sided deafness (SSD), where one ear has profound hearing loss or no hearing. These gadgets provide a non-intrusive option that is frequently more comfortable, particularly for people, both young and old, who experience frequent ear problems.
Implantable vs. Non-Implantable Options:
There are two primary categories of bone conduction options: Implantable and non-implantable devices.
- External non-implantable devices are generally fastened 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 installed): These devices include a small implant under the skin that connects to an external sound processor. They usually offer stronger performance and stability for long-term users. A professional evaluation by an audiologist or ENT specialist will identify the most appropriate option for you, taking into account your age, individual anatomy, and personal hearing objectives.
Key Benefits of Bone Conduction Hearing Devices
- Comfortable for sensitive ears– no need to place anything inside the ear canal
- Clear sound quality, even with chronic ear issues
- Great for unique anatomy– helpful for people born without a complete outer ear or with other structural differences
- Enhanced communication is especially beneficial in instructional settings, professional environments, or noisy surroundings
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 helpful to consider bone conduction hearing devices.
Make an appointment with an audiologist today to get further 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