When the majority of people think of hearing aids, they picture traditional devices that boost sound through the ear canal. But for people with specific types of hearing loss, particularly those dealing with persistent ear problems or single-sided deafness, a distinct kind of technology could offer better clarity 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 sending sound through the air, they transfer 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 if there is a blockage or injury in the ear canal. 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
Standard hearing aids increase sound and send it into the ear canal. This approach is especially helpful 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 issue is with the outer or middle ear, due to 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 scenarios as they steer clear of the problematic areas and transmit sound directly to the cochlea.
Bone Conduction Candidates
Bone conduction devices are beneficial for:
- Sound waves are not able to pass through the outer or middle ear, resulting in conductive hearing loss.
- Persistent ear infections or drainage issues, where conventional hearing aids could worsen the condition.
- Individuals with misshapen ear canals or missing outer ears, who might not be prospects for conventional devices.
- Single-sided deafness (SSD), where one ear has severe hearing loss or no hearing. These devices provide a non-intrusive option that is typically more comfortable, particularly for individuals, both young and old, who experience frequent ear problems.
Implantable vs. Non-Implantable Solutions:
There are two principal 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 ideal for children, individuals trying bone conduction for the first time, or individuals not prepared for surgery.
- Implantable (surgically placed): These devices include a small implant under the skin that connects to an external sound processor. They usually offer more robust performance and stability for long-term users. Your audiologist or ENT specialist can help determine which option is right 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
- Great audio quality stays consistent, despite recurring problems with the ears
- Great for unique anatomy– helpful for people born without a complete outer ear or with other structural differences
- Improved communication– especially in school, work, or noisy settings
If you or your child has trouble hearing in one or both ears, especially because of ongoing infections or problems with sound transmission, it may be helpful to think about bone conduction hearing devices.
Schedule 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