Usually, the idea of hearing aids conjures up the idea of traditional devices that raise the volume of sound through the canal of the ear. For individuals struggling with specific hearing impairments, including persistent ear issues or unilateral deafness, an alternative solution might provide improved sound quality and user comfort: bone conduction hearing aids.
The Capability of Bone Conduction Hearing Devices
Bone conduction hearing devices work by bypassing the outer and middle ear. Rather than relying on airwaves to convey sound, these devices utilize the head’s bones to direct 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 of it like this: If you’ve ever plugged your ears and still heard your voice when speaking, that’s bone conduction.
Bone Conduction vs. Traditional Hearing Aids
Conventional hearing aids boost sound and direct it through the ear canal. This strategy is particularly effective for people who have had 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, traditional hearing aids might not be reliable or comfortable. Bone conduction hearing devices are often a more reliable option in such situations as they avoid the problematic regions and transmit sound directly to the cochlea.
Best Candidates For Bone Conduction
Bone conduction devices are beneficial for:
- Conductive hearing loss, when sound has difficulty moving through the outer or middle ear at all.
- Chronic ear infections or drainage problems, where traditional hearing aids could worsen the condition.
- People with deformed ear canals or the absence of outer ears, who might not qualify for traditional devices.
- Single-sided deafness (SSD), where one ear has profound hearing loss or no hearing. These gadgets provide a non-intrusive option that is frequently more comfortable, particularly for people, both young and old, who experience recurring ear problems.
Implantable vs. Non-Implantable Solutions:
There are two primary types of bone conduction hearing devices:
- External non-implantable devices are generally fastened using a headband, softband, or adhesive pad. They’re suitable for children, individuals trying out bone conduction for the first time, or people not prepared for surgery.
- Surgically implanted devices involve a tiny device inserted underneath the skin, which is connected to a separate sound processor mounted outside the body. They usually provide stronger performance and reliability for long-term users. A professional assessment by an audiologist or ENT specialist will determine the most suitable solution for you, considering your age, particular anatomy, and personal hearing objectives.
Key Benefits of Bone Conduction Hearing Devices
- Comfortable for sensitive ears– no need to place anything inside the ear canal
- Clear sound quality, despite having chronic ear issues
- Great for distinct anatomy– helpful for people born without a complete outer ear or with other structural differences
- Enhanced communication– especially in school, work, or noisy environments
If you or your child copes with hearing in one or both ears, especially due to chronic infections or conductive problems, bone conduction hearing devices could be worth exploring.
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