When the majority of individuals think about hearing aids, they think of conventional devices that amplify sound through the ear canal. For individuals struggling with specific hearing impairments, including persistent ear problems or unilateral deafness, a different option may provide enhanced sound quality and user comfort: bone conduction hearing aids.
How Bone Conduction Hearing Devices Work
With bone conduction hearing devices, the outer and middle ear are bypassed. Rather than relying on airwaves to transmit sound, these devices utilize the head’s bones to channel vibrations directly to the cochlea, the inner ear’s sound-processing hub. This allows sound to get to the auditory nerve even if 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. Traditional Hearing Aids
Conventional hearing aids increase sound and send it into the ear canal. This works effectively for people with sensorineural hearing loss, where the inner ear or auditory nerve is compromised. But if the problem is with the outer or middle ear, due to infection, fluid accumulation, or structural issues, conventional hearing aids may not be reliable or comfortable. Bone conduction hearing devices can be a more reliable alternative in such scenarios as they avoid the problematic regions and transfer sound directly to the 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.
- Persistent ear infections or drainage problems, where traditional hearing aids could worsen the condition.
- People with malformed ear canals or missing outer ears, who may not be candidates for conventional devices.
- A condition known as unilateral deafness, where an individual experiences substantial or total hearing loss in one ear. These devices provide a non-invasive alternative that is often more comfortable, especially for kids and adults with recurring ear issues.
Implantable vs. Non-Implantable Options:
There are two principal classifications of bone conduction choices: Implantable and non-implantable devices.
- Non-implantable (worn externally): These are typically held in place with a headband, softband, or sticky pad. They are perfect for kids, those trying out bone conduction for the first time, or individuals who are not prepared for surgery.
- Implantable (surgically placed): These devices consist of a small implant under the skin that connects with an external sound processor. Long-term users typically find that they provide more robust and reliable results. A professional assessment by an audiologist or ENT specialist will identify the most suitable option for you, taking into account your age, particular anatomy, and personal hearing objectives.
Key Advantages of Bone Conduction Hearing Devices
- Comfortable for sensitive ears– no need to put anything inside the ear canal
- Good audio quality remains consistent, despite recurring problems with the ears
- Ideal for people with distinct physical attributes – this option is especially beneficial for people with congenital conditions impacting the outer ear or other anatomical variations.
- Improved communication– particularly in school, work, or noisy settings
If you or your child struggles with hearing in one or both ears, particularly as a result of persistent infections or conductive issues, bone conduction hearing devices could be worth exploring.
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