When the majority of individuals think about hearing aids, they picture conventional devices that amplify sound through the ear canal. But for individuals with specific kinds of hearing loss, especially those coping 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. Rather than relying on airwaves to transmit sound, these devices utilize the head’s bones to direct vibrations directly to the cochlea, the inner ear’s sound-processing hub. This allows sound to reach the auditory nerve even if there is a blockage or injury in the ear canal. Think of it this way: If you’ve ever plugged your ears and still been able to hear your voice when talking, that’s bone conduction.
Bone Conduction vs. Conventional Hearing Aids
Traditional hearing aids boost sound and direct it through the ear canal. This works well 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 issues, traditional hearing aids may not be effective or comfortable. Bone conduction hearing devices are often a better solution in these instances because they bypass the problem 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, resulting in conductive hearing loss.
- Persistent ear infections or issues with fluid drainage could be intensified by conventional hearing aids.
- People with malformed ear canals or missing outer ears, who might not be candidates for traditional devices.
- Single-sided deafness (SSD), where one ear has profound hearing loss or no hearing. These devices offer a non-invasive alternative that is often more comfortable, especially for kids and adults who have recurring ear problems.
Implantable vs. Non-Implantable Options:
There are two main kinds of bone conduction hearing devices:
- External non-implantable devices are usually fastened using a headband, softband, or adhesive pad. They are excellent for kids, those experimenting with bone conduction for the first time, or individuals who are not prepared for surgery.
- Implantable (surgically placed): These devices include a small implant under the skin that connects to an external sound processor. Long-term users typically find that they supply more effective and reliable results. A professional evaluation by an audiologist or ENT specialist will determine the most appropriate solution for you, taking into account your age, individual anatomy, and personal hearing objectives.
Advantages of Using Bone Conduction Hearing Devices
- Comfortable for sensitive ears– no need to put anything into the ear canal
- Great audio quality stays consistent, in spite of recurring issues with the ears
- Great for unique anatomy– helpful for people born without a full outer ear or with other structural variations
- Improved communication is especially beneficial in educational settings, professional environments, or noisy surroundings
If you or your child struggles with hearing in one or both ears, especially as a result of persistent infections or conductive issues, bone conduction hearing devices could 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