Typically, the concept of hearing aids invokes the thought of traditional devices that boost sound through the canal of the ear. But for people with specific kinds of hearing loss, especially those coping with chronic ear problems or single-sided deafness, a distinct kind 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 relying on airwaves to convey sound, these devices utilize the head’s bones to channel vibrations directly to the cochlea, the inner ear’s sound-processing hub. This means that even if the ear canal is blocked or damaged, sound can still get to the auditory nerve. Think of it like this: If you’ve ever stopped up your ears and still heard your voice when talking, that’s bone conduction.
Distinction between Bone Conduction and Conventional Hearing Aids
Traditional hearing aids amplify sound and direct it through the ear canal. This approach is particularly effective for people who have experienced damage to the inner ear or the nerve in charge of transmitting sound, resulting in sensorineural hearing loss. But if the problem is with the outer or middle ear, as a result of infection, fluid buildup, or structural problems, conventional hearing aids may not be reliable or comfortable. Bone conduction hearing devices are often a better solution in these cases because they bypass the problem areas and send sound directly to your cochlea.
Bone Conduction Candidates
Situations where bone conduction devices are appropriate:
- Sound waves are unable to pass through the outer or middle ear, resulting in conductive hearing loss.
- Chronic ear infections or drainage problems, where traditional hearing aids could worsen the condition.
- Individuals with deformed ear canals or the absence of outer ears, who might not qualify for conventional devices.
- A condition called one-sided deafness, where a person experiences substantial or complete hearing loss in one ear. These devices provide a non-invasive alternative that is frequently more comfortable, particularly for children and adults who have persisting ear issues.
Implantable vs. Non-Implantable Options:
There are two primary classifications of bone conduction options: Implantable and non-implantable devices.
- External non-implantable devices are usually secured with a headband, softband, or adhesive pad. They’re suitable for children, those trying bone conduction for the first time, or people not ready for surgery.
- Implantable (surgically installed): These devices include a small implant under the skin that connects with an external sound processor. They usually offer stronger performance and reliability for long-term users. Your audiologist or ENT specialist can help determine which option is appropriate based on your age, anatomy, and hearing goals.
Advantages of Using Bone Conduction Hearing Devices
- Comfortable for sensitive ears– no need to place anything into the ear canal
- Good audio quality remains consistent, in spite of ongoing issues with the ears
- Ideal for people with distinct physical attributes – this alternative is particularly helpful for individuals with congenital conditions affecting the outer ear or other anatomical variations.
- Enhanced communication is especially advantageous in instructional settings, professional environments, or noisy surroundings
If you or your child has difficulty hearing in one or both ears, especially because of ongoing infections or issues with sound transmission, it may be beneficial to think about bone conduction hearing devices.
Schedule 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
