Typically, the idea of hearing aids invokes the idea of traditional devices that raise the volume of sound through the canal of the ear. But for people with certain kinds of hearing loss, especially those coping with persistent ear problems or single-sided deafness, a different kind of technology could provide better clarity and comfort: bone conduction hearing devices.
The Functionality of Bone Conduction Hearing Devices
With bone conduction hearing devices, the outer and middle ear are bypassed. Instead of sending sound through the air, they transmit vibrations through the bones of the skull to the inner ear (cochlea), where the sound is processed. 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 Devices
Standard hearing aids increase sound and direct it into the ear canal. This works effectively for people with 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 buildup, or structural problems, traditional hearing aids may not be effective or comfortable. Bone conduction hearing devices are typically a better solution in these instances because they bypass the problem areas and deliver sound directly to your cochlea.
Best Candidates For Bone Conduction
Bone conduction devices are beneficial for:
- Conductive hearing loss, when sound has trouble 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 may not qualify for conventional devices.
- Single-sided deafness (SSD), where one ear has severe hearing loss or no hearing. These gadgets offer a non-intrusive option that is frequently more comfortable, especially for individuals, both young and old, who experience recurring ear problems.
Options that include implantable and non-implantable techniques:
There are two primary kinds of bone conduction hearing devices:
- External non-implantable devices are usually fastened with a headband, softband, or adhesive pad. They’re ideal for children, those trying out bone conduction for the first time, or individuals not ready for surgery.
- Implantable (surgically placed): These devices consist of a small implant under the skin that connects with an external sound processor. Long-term users often find that they supply more robust and dependable results. Your audiologist or ENT specialist can help determine which option is appropriate based upon your age, anatomy, and hearing goals.
Key Benefits of Bone Conduction Hearing Devices
- Comfortable for sensitive ears– no need to put anything inside the ear canal
- Great audio quality remains consistent, in spite of ongoing issues with the ears
- Great for distinct anatomy– helpful for people born without a full outer ear or with other structural differences
- Improved communication– particularly 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 issues with sound transmission, it might be helpful 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