Usually, the idea of hearing aids invokes the thought of conventional devices that raise the volume of sound through the canal of the ear. For individuals struggling with certain hearing impairments, such as relentless ear issues or unilateral deafness, a different option may provide improved sound quality and user comfort: bone conduction hearing aids.
The Functionality of Bone Conduction Hearing Devices
With bone conduction hearing devices, the outer and middle ear are bypassed. Instead of sending sound through the air, they transmit vibrations through the bones of the head to the inner ear (cochlea), where the sound is processed. This allows sound to reach the auditory nerve even when there is a blockage or injury in the ear canal. Think of it this way: If you’ve ever stopped up your ears and still been able to hear your voice when speaking, that’s bone conduction.
Bone Conduction vs. Traditional Hearing Aids
Conventional hearing aids increase sound and direct it into the ear canal. This works effectively for people who have sensorineural hearing loss, where the inner ear or auditory nerve is compromised. But if the problem is with the outer or middle ear, as a result of infection, fluid accumulation, or structural issues, traditional hearing aids may not be effective or comfortable. Bone conduction hearing devices can be a more reliable option in such situations as they avoid the problematic areas and transmit sound directly to the cochlea.
Best Candidates For Bone Conduction
Bone conduction devices are beneficial for:
- Sound waves are not able to pass through the outer or middle ear, leading to conductive hearing loss.
- Relentless ear infections or issues with fluid drainage could be aggravated by conventional hearing aids.
- Individuals with deformed ear canals or the absence of outer ears, who may not qualify for traditional devices.
- A condition known as one-sided deafness, where a person experiences substantial or total hearing loss in one ear. These devices provide a non-invasive alternative that is often more comfortable, especially for children and adults who have persisting ear problems.
Options that include implantable and non-implantable solutions:
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 are perfect for kids, people trying out bone conduction for the first time, or individuals who are not prepared for surgery.
- Surgically implanted devices involve a tiny device placed underneath the skin, which is linked to a separate sound processor worn outside the body. Long-term users typically find that they supply more effective and dependable results. A professional evaluation by an audiologist or ENT specialist will identify the most suitable option for you, taking into account your age, individual anatomy, and personal hearing objectives.
Key Benefits of Bone Conduction Hearing Devices
- Suitable for sensitive ears – does not require insertion into the ear canal
- Clear sound quality, even with chronic ear issues
- Perfect for people with distinct physical attributes – this option is particularly beneficial for individuals with congenital conditions impacting the outer ear or other physiological variations.
- Enhanced communication is especially beneficial in instructional settings, professional environments, or loud surroundings
If you or your child has difficulty hearing in one or both ears, particularly because of recurring infections or issues with sound transmission, it might be helpful 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
