Typically, the concept of hearing aids conjures up the thought of conventional devices that raise the volume of sound through the canal of the ear. But for individuals with specific types of hearing loss, particularly those dealing with chronic ear problems or single-sided deafness, a different kind of technology could provide 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. Instead of transmitting sound through the air, they transmit vibrations through the bones of the skull to the inner ear (cochlea), where the sound is processed. This means that even if the ear canal is obstructed or damaged, sound can still get to the auditory nerve. Think of it this way: If you’ve ever plugged your ears and still been able to hear your voice when speaking, that’s bone conduction.
Bone Conduction vs. Conventional Hearing Aids
Conventional hearing aids increase sound and send it into the ear canal. This approach is especially helpful for people who have had damage to the inner ear or the nerve in charge of transmitting sound, causing sensorineural hearing loss. However, if there are problems with the external or middle ear dued to infection, fluid accumulation, or structural concerns, standard hearing aids might not work well or be comfortable. Bone conduction hearing devices are often a more effective alternative in such situations as they avoid the problematic regions and transmit sound directly to the cochlea.
Bone Conduction Candidates
Situations where bone conduction devices are appropriate:
- Sound waves are unable to travel through the outer or middle ear, leading to conductive hearing loss.
- Persistent ear infections or problems with fluid drainage could be intensified by conventional hearing aids.
- Individuals with malformed ear canals or missing outer ears, who may not be prospects for conventional devices.
- A condition known as unilateral deafness, where a person experiences significant or total hearing loss in one ear. These devices provide a non-intrusive option that is typically more comfortable, particularly for individuals, both young and old, who experience frequent ear problems.
Options that include implantable and non-implantable solutions:
There are two principal 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 are excellent for children, those experimenting with bone conduction for the first time, or individuals who are not prepared for surgery.
- Implantable (surgically installed): These devices consist of a small implant under the skin that connects with an external sound processor. Long-term users often find that they provide more robust and dependable results. A professional assessment by an audiologist or ENT specialist will identify the most appropriate solution for you, taking into account your age, particular anatomy, and personal hearing objectives.
Key Advantages of Bone Conduction Hearing Devices
- Suitable for sensitive ears – does not require insertion into the ear canal
- Great audio quality remains consistent, despite ongoing problems with the ears
- Perfect for people with distinct physical attributes – this option is especially helpful for people with congenital conditions impacting the outer ear or other anatomical variations.
- Enhanced communication is especially advantageous in instructional settings, professional environments, or loud surroundings
If you or your child struggles with hearing in one or both ears, particularly due to persistent infections or conductive problems, bone conduction hearing devices could be worth exploring.
Schedule 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