When the majority of individuals think of hearing aids, they think of traditional devices that amplify sound through the ear canal. But for individuals with specific kinds of hearing loss, particularly those coping with persistent ear problems or single-sided deafness, a different type of technology could offer better quality and comfort: bone conduction hearing devices.
The Capability of Bone Conduction Hearing Devices
With bone conduction hearing devices, the outer and middle ear are bypassed. Rather than 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 an obstruction or injury in the ear canal. Think about this example: When you put your hands over 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 Devices
Conventional hearing aids increase sound and direct it into the ear canal. This strategy is particularly effective for people who have experienced damage to the inner ear or the nerve responsible for transferring 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 problems, conventional hearing aids might not work well or be comfortable. Bone conduction hearing devices are often a more reliable alternative in such situations as they avoid the problematic areas and transmit sound directly to the cochlea.
Bone Conduction Candidates
Situations where bone conduction devices are appropriate:
- Sound waves are not able to travel through the outer or middle ear, leading to conductive hearing loss.
- Relentless ear infections or issues with fluid drainage could be intensified by traditional hearing aids.
- People with malformed ear canals or missing outer ears, who might not be prospects for traditional devices.
- Single-sided deafness (SSD), where one ear has profound hearing loss or no hearing. These devices offer a non-invasive option that is frequently more comfortable, particularly for kids and adults with persisting ear problems.
Options that include implantable and non-implantable solutions:
There are two primary classifications of bone conduction options: Implantable and non-implantable devices.
- External non-implantable devices are usually secured using a headband, softband, or adhesive pad. They’re ideal for children, people trying bone conduction for the first time, or people not ready for surgery.
- Surgically embeded devices involve a tiny device placed beneath the skin, which is connected to a separate sound processor mounted outside the body. Long-term users often find that they provide more robust and reliable results. A professional evaluation by an audiologist or ENT specialist will determine the most suitable option for you, considering your age, particular anatomy, and personal hearing objectives.
Key Advantages of Bone Conduction Hearing Devices
- Suitable for sensitive ears – does not require insertion into the ear canal
- Great audio quality stays consistent, in spite of recurring problems with the ears
- Great for unique anatomy– helpful for individuals born without a complete outer ear or with other structural differences
- Improved communication– particularly in school, work, or noisy environments
If you or your child has trouble hearing in one or both ears, especially because of ongoing infections or issues with sound transmission, it may be helpful to think about bone conduction hearing devices.
Make 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