When most people think about hearing aids, they picture traditional devices that amplify sound through the ear canal. But for individuals with certain kinds of hearing loss, particularly those coping with persistent ear issues 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
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 reach the auditory nerve even if there is an obstruction or injury in the ear canal. Think of it like this: If you’ve ever stopped up your ears and still heard your voice when speaking, that’s bone conduction.
Distinction between Bone Conduction and 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 damaged. But if the issue is with the outer or middle ear, as a result of infection, fluid buildup, or structural problems, traditional hearing aids might not be reliable or comfortable. Bone conduction hearing devices are often a more reliable option in such situations as they avoid the problematic regions and transmit sound directly to the cochlea.
Best Candidates For Bone Conduction
Situations where bone conduction devices are appropraite:
- Sound waves are unable to travel through the outer or middle ear, resulting in conductive hearing loss.
- Persistent ear infections or problems with fluid drainage could be intensified by conventional hearing aids.
- People with misshapen ear canals or missing outer ears, who might not be prospects for conventional devices.
- Single-sided deafness (SSD), where one ear has severe hearing loss or no hearing. These devices offer a non-intrusive option that is typically more comfortable, especially for people, both young and old, who experience frequent ear issues.
Implantable vs. Non-Implantable Options:
There are two primary types of bone conduction hearing devices:
- External non-implantable devices are usually fastened using a headband, softband, or adhesive pad. They’re suitable for children, individuals trying bone conduction for the first time, or individuals not ready 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 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, particular anatomy, and personal hearing objectives.
Perks of Employing Bone Conduction Hearing Devices
- Comfortable for sensitive ears– no need to put anything into the ear canal
- Great audio quality remains consistent, despite recurring problems with the ears
- Great for distinct anatomy– helpful for individuals born without a complete outer ear or with other structural differences
- Improved communication– especially in school, work, or noisy settings
If you or your child has difficulty hearing in one or both ears, especially because of recurring infections or issues with sound transmission, it might be beneficial to consider bone conduction hearing devices.
Book an appointment with an audiologist today to get more 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