Usually, the idea of hearing aids invokes the thought of traditional devices that raise the volume of sound through the canal of the ear. For people struggling with certain hearing impairments, including persistent ear problems or unilateral deafness, an alternative option may supply enhanced sound quality and user comfort: bone conduction hearing aids.
The Capability of Bone Conduction Hearing Devices
With bone conduction hearing devices, the outer and middle ear are bypassed. Rather than depending on airwaves to transmit sound, these devices use 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. Consider this example: When you cover your ears and still manage to hear the sound of your own voice while speaking, that’s an example of bone conduction working.
Distinction between Bone Conduction and Conventional Hearing Aids
Conventional hearing aids amplify sound and direct it through the ear canal. This works effectively for people with sensorineural hearing loss, where the inner ear or auditory nerve is compromised. However, if there are issues with the external or middle ear caused by infection, fluid accumulation, or structural problems, conventional hearing aids might not work efficiently or be comfortable. Bone conduction hearing devices are typically a better solution in these instances because they bypass the issue areas and send sound directly to your cochlea.
Bone Conduction Candidates
Situations where bone conduction devices are appropriate:
- Conductive hearing loss, when sound has trouble moving through the outer or middle ear at all.
- Persistent ear infections or drainage problems, where conventional hearing aids could worsen the condition.
- People with deformed ear canals or the absence of outer ears, who may not qualify for traditional devices.
- Single-sided deafness (SSD), where one ear has profound hearing loss or no hearing. These devices provide a non-intrusive option that is typically more comfortable, especially for individuals, both young and old, who experience frequent ear problems.
Implantable vs. Non-Implantable Solutions:
There are two primary types of bone conduction hearing devices:
- Non-implantable (worn externally): These are usually held in place with a headband, softband, or sticky pad. They’re suitable for children, those trying out bone conduction for the first time, or people not prepared for surgery.
- Surgically implanted devices consist of a tiny device placed beneath the skin, which is linked to a separate sound processor mounted outside the body. Long-term users typically find that they provide more effective and reliable results. Your audiologist or ENT specialist can help determine which option is right based upon your age, anatomy, and hearing goals.
Perks of Using Bone Conduction Hearing Devices
- Comfortable for sensitive ears– no need to put anything inside the ear canal
- Good audio quality stays consistent, despite recurring issues with the ears
- Excellent for distinct anatomy– helpful for individuals born without a full outer ear or with other structural differences
- Improved communication is especially beneficial in educational settings, professional environments, or noisy surroundings
If you or your child has difficulty hearing in one or both ears, especially because of ongoing infections or issues with sound transmission, it may be beneficial to consider bone conduction hearing devices.
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
