Usually, the idea of hearing aids invokes the thought of traditional devices that boost sound through the canal of the ear. But for people with certain types of hearing loss, especially those coping with persistent ear issues or single-sided deafness, a distinct kind of technology could provide better clarity and comfort: bone conduction hearing devices.
How Bone Conduction Hearing Devices Work
Bone conduction hearing devices function by bypassing the outer and middle ear. Rather than depending on airwaves to convey sound, these devices utilize the skull’s bones to channel vibrations directly to the cochlea, the inner ear’s sound-processing hub. This means that even when the ear canal is blocked or damaged, sound can still get to the auditory nerve. Consider this example: When you put your hands over your ears and still manage to hear the sound of your own voice while talking, that’s an illustration of bone conduction at work.
Bone Conduction vs. Conventional Hearing Aids
Standard hearing aids increase sound and direct it into the ear canal. This approach is particularly helpful for people who have experienced damage to the inner ear or the nerve responsible for transferring sound, resulting in sensorineural hearing loss. But if the problem is with the outer or middle ear, due to infection, fluid buildup, or structural issues, standard hearing aids might not be effective or comfortable. Bone conduction hearing devices are typically a better solution in these instances because they bypass the issue areas and deliver sound straight to your cochlea.
Best Candidates For Bone Conduction
Situations where bone conduction devices are appropriate:
- Sound waves are not able 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 flawed ear canals or the absence of outer ears, who might not qualify for traditional devices.
- A condition called one-sided deafness, where a person experiences substantial or complete hearing loss in one ear. These devices offer a non-invasive alternative that is often more comfortable, particularly for kids and adults with recurring ear problems.
Implantable vs. Non-Implantable Options:
There are two main types of bone conduction hearing devices:
- External non-implantable devices are usually secured using a headband, softband, or adhesive pad. They’re suitable for children, individuals trying out bone conduction for the first time, or people not prepared for surgery.
- Implantable (surgically installed): These devices consist of a small implant under the skin that connects with an external sound processor. They tend to offer more robust performance and reliability for long-term users. Your audiologist or ENT specialist can help decide which option is right based upon your age, anatomy, and hearing goals.
Key Advantages of Bone Conduction Hearing Devices
- Comfortable for sensitive ears– no need to place anything inside the ear canal
- Great audio quality stays consistent, in spite of recurring problems with the ears
- Ideal for individuals with distinct physical attributes – this option is particularly helpful for individuals with congenital conditions impacting the outer ear or other anatomical variations.
- Improved communication is particularly advantageous in educational settings, professional environments, or noisy surroundings
If you or your child copes with hearing in one or both ears, especially as a result of persistent infections or conductive problems, bone conduction hearing devices might be worth exploring.
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