Typically, the idea of hearing aids invokes the idea of traditional devices that raise the volume of sound through the canal of the ear. But for people with certain kinds of hearing loss, particularly those dealing with persistent ear issues or single-sided deafness, a distinct type of technology could provide better quality and comfort: bone conduction hearing devices.
The Capability of Bone Conduction Hearing Devices
Bone conduction hearing devices function by bypassing the outer and middle ear. Rather than depending on airwaves to convey sound, these devices use the skull’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 plugged your ears and still heard your voice when talking, that’s bone conduction.
Bone Conduction vs. Conventional Hearing Aids
Conventional hearing aids boost sound and direct it through the ear canal. This works well for individuals with sensorineural hearing loss, where the inner ear or auditory nerve is compromised. However, if there are issues with the outer or middle ear dued to infection, fluid accumulation, or structural problems, standard hearing aids might not work well or be comfortable. Bone conduction hearing devices are typically a better option in these cases because they bypass the issue areas and send sound directly 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, leading to conductive hearing loss.
- Relentless ear infections or issues with fluid drainage could be aggravated by traditional hearing aids.
- Individuals with flawed ear canals or the absence of outer ears, who may not qualify for conventional devices.
- A condition known as one-sided deafness, where a person experiences substantial or complete hearing loss in one ear. These devices provide a non-invasive option that is frequently more comfortable, particularly for children and adults who have recurring ear problems.
Options that include implantable and non-implantable solutions:
There are two principal classifications of bone conduction options: Implantable and non-implantable devices.
- External non-implantable devices are generally fastened using a headband, softband, or adhesive pad. They’re suitable for children, individuals trying bone conduction for the first time, or people not ready for surgery.
- Implantable (surgically installed): These devices consist of a small implant under the skin that connects with an external sound processor. 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.
Key Advantages of Bone Conduction Hearing Devices
- Comfortable for sensitive ears– no need to put anything into the ear canal
- Clear sound quality, even with chronic ear issues
- Great for unique anatomy– helpful for people born without a full outer ear or with other structural variations
- Improved communication is particularly advantageous in educational settings, professional environments, or loud surroundings
If you or your child struggles with hearing in one or both ears, particularly due to persistent infections or conductive problems, bone conduction hearing devices might be worth exploring.
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