Usually, the idea of hearing aids conjures up 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, particularly those dealing with chronic ear issues or single-sided deafness, a distinct kind of technology could provide 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. Instead of sending sound through the air, they transfer vibrations through the bones of the skull to the inner ear (cochlea), where the sound is processed. This allows sound to get to the auditory nerve even when there is a blockage 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 talking, that’s bone conduction.
Comparison between Bone Conduction and Conventional Hearing Devices
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. On the other hand, if there are issues with the outer or middle ear dued to infection, fluid collection, or structural problems, standard hearing aids may not work efficiently or be comfortable. Bone conduction hearing devices are often a better solution in these instances because they bypass the issue areas and send sound directly to your cochlea.
Best Candidates For Bone Conduction
Bone conduction devices are helpful 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 might not be prospects for traditional devices.
- Single-sided deafness (SSD), where one ear has profound hearing loss or no hearing. These devices offer a non-intrusive option that is typically more comfortable, particularly for individuals, both young and old, who experience recurring ear issues.
Options that include implantable and non-implantable solutions:
There are two principal classifications of bone conduction choices: Implantable and non-implantable devices.
- Non-implantable (worn externally): These are usually held in place with a headband, softband, or sticky pad. They are excellent for kids, those experimenting with bone conduction for the first time, or people who are not prepared for surgery.
- Implantable (surgically placed): These devices consist of a small implant under the skin that connects to an external sound processor. They tend to provide stronger performance and reliability for long-term users. Your audiologist or ENT specialist can help determine which option is right based upon your age, anatomy, and hearing goals.
Advantages of Using Bone Conduction Hearing Devices
- Comfortable for sensitive ears– no need to put anything into the ear canal
- Clear sound quality, despite having chronic ear problems
- Perfect for those with distinct physical characteristics – this option is particularly helpful for individuals with congenital conditions affecting the outer ear or other anatomical variations.
- Improved communication is particularly beneficial in instructional settings, professional environments, or noisy surroundings
If you or your child has difficulty hearing in one or both ears, especially because of recurring infections or problems with sound transmission, it may be helpful to consider bone conduction hearing devices.
Set up 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