When the majority of individuals think of hearing aids, they picture traditional devices that boost 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 distinct kind of technology could provide better quality and comfort: bone conduction hearing devices.
The Capability of Bone Conduction Hearing Devices
Bone conduction hearing devices work by bypassing the outer and middle ear. Rather than depending 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 when there is an obstruction or injury in the ear canal. Think of it this way: If you’ve ever plugged your ears and still heard your voice when speaking, that’s bone conduction.
Distinction between Bone Conduction and Traditional Hearing Devices
Conventional hearing aids amplify sound and funnel it through the ear canal. This approach is especially helpful for people who have experienced damage to the inner ear or the nerve responsible for transmitting sound, causing sensorineural hearing loss. On the other hand, if there are problems with the outer or middle ear caused by infection, fluid accumulation, or structural concerns, standard hearing aids may not work efficiently or be comfortable. Bone conduction hearing devices are often a more effective option in such scenarios as they avoid the problematic areas and transmit sound directly to the cochlea.
Bone Conduction Candidates
Situations where bone conduction devices are appropriate:
- Conductive hearing loss, when sound has difficulty traveling through the outer or middle ear at all.
- Persistent ear infections or drainage issues, where conventional hearing aids could worsen the condition.
- Individuals with misshapen ear canals or missing outer ears, who may 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-invasive option that is often more comfortable, particularly for children and adults with persisting ear problems.
Implantable vs. Non-Implantable Options:
There are two principal categories of bone conduction options: 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 children, people trying out 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 usually offer more robust performance and stability for long-term users. A professional evaluation by an audiologist or ENT specialist will identify the most suitable option for you, considering your age, individual anatomy, and personal hearing objectives.
Key Advantages of Bone Conduction Hearing Devices
- Comfortable for sensitive ears– no need to place anything inside the ear canal
- Great audio quality remains consistent, in spite of recurring issues with the ears
- Perfect for individuals with distinct physical attributes – this alternative is especially helpful for individuals with congenital conditions affecting the outer ear or other anatomical variations.
- Enhanced communication is particularly beneficial in educational settings, professional environments, or noisy surroundings
If you or your child copes with hearing in one or both ears, especially due to chronic infections or conductive issues, bone conduction hearing devices might be worth exploring.
Make an appointment with an audiologist today to get further 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