Typically, the concept of hearing aids invokes the idea of traditional devices that boost sound through the canal of the ear. For people struggling with certain hearing impairments, including relentless ear issues or unilateral deafness, a different option might provide enhanced sound quality and user comfort: bone conduction hearing aids.
The Functionality of Bone Conduction Hearing Devices
Bone conduction hearing devices function by bypassing the outer and middle ear. Rather than depending on airwaves to transmit sound, these devices utilize the skull’s bones to channel vibrations directly to the cochlea, the inner ear’s sound-processing hub. This means that even when the ear canal is blocked or damaged, sound can still reach the auditory nerve. Think about this example: When you put your hands over your ears and are still able to hear the sound of your own voice when talking, that’s an example of bone conduction at work.
Bone Conduction vs. Conventional Hearing Aids
Traditional hearing aids amplify sound and direct it through the ear canal. This works effectively for individuals 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, due to infection, fluid accumulation, or structural issues, conventional hearing aids may not be effective or comfortable. Bone conduction hearing devices are often a better option in these instances 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 unable to travel through the outer or middle ear, leading to conductive hearing loss.
- Chronic ear infections or drainage problems, where conventional hearing aids could worsen the condition.
- Individuals with flawed ear canals or the absence of outer ears, who may not qualify for traditional 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, especially for children and adults with persisting ear problems.
Implantable vs. Non-Implantable Solutions:
There are two main kinds of bone conduction hearing devices:
- External non-implantable devices are usually secured using a headband, softband, or adhesive pad. They’re suitable for children, people trying bone conduction for the first time, or individuals not prepared for surgery.
- Implantable (surgically installed): These devices include a small implant under the skin that connects to an external sound processor. They usually provide stronger performance and reliability for long-term users. Your audiologist or ENT specialist can help determine which option is appropriate based upon your age, anatomy, and hearing goals.
Advantages of Employing Bone Conduction Hearing Devices
- Comfortable for sensitive ears– no need to place anything inside the ear canal
- Good audio quality stays consistent, despite ongoing problems with the ears
- Excellent for distinct anatomy– helpful for people born without a complete outer ear or with other structural variations
- Enhanced communication– especially in school, work, or noisy environments
If you or your child has difficulty hearing in one or both ears, particularly because of ongoing infections or issues with sound transmission, it might be helpful to consider bone conduction hearing devices.
Set up an assessment 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