Usually, the concept of hearing aids invokes the thought of traditional devices that boost sound through the canal of the ear. For individuals struggling with certain hearing impairments, such as relentless ear problems or unilateral deafness, a different solution may supply 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 relying on airwaves to transmit sound, these devices use the skull’s bones to direct vibrations directly to the cochlea, the inner ear’s sound-processing center. This means that even when the ear canal is obstructed or damaged, sound can still get to the auditory nerve. Think of it like this: If you’ve ever plugged your ears and still been able to hear your voice when talking, that’s bone conduction.
Comparison between Bone Conduction and Traditional Hearing Devices
Conventional hearing aids boost sound and direct it through the ear canal. This works well for people who have sensorineural hearing loss, where the inner ear or auditory nerve is damaged. But if the issue is with the outer or middle ear, due to infection, fluid accumulation, or structural problems, traditional hearing aids might not be reliable or comfortable. Bone conduction hearing devices are often a better option in these cases because they bypass the issue areas and send sound straight to your cochlea.
Bone Conduction Candidates
Bone conduction devices are beneficial for:
- Sound waves are not able to pass through the outer or middle ear, leading to conductive hearing loss.
- Persistent ear infections or problems with fluid drainage could be intensified by conventional hearing aids.
- People with misshapen ear canals or missing outer ears, who may not be prospects for traditional devices.
- Single-sided deafness (SSD), where one ear has severe hearing loss or no hearing. These devices offer a non-invasive alternative that is often more comfortable, especially for children and adults who have recurring ear issues.
Options that include implantable and non-implantable solutions:
There are two primary types of bone conduction hearing devices:
- Non-implantable (worn externally): These are usually held in place with a headband, softband, or adhesive pad. They are perfect for kids, those experimenting with bone conduction for the first time, or people who are not prepared for surgery.
- Implantable (surgically installed): These devices consist of a small implant under the skin that connects to an external sound processor. Long-term users typically find that they supply more robust and reliable results. A professional evaluation by an audiologist or ENT specialist will identify the most appropriate solution for you, considering your age, individual anatomy, and personal hearing objectives.
Key Advantages of Bone Conduction Hearing Devices
- Suitable for sensitive ears – does not necessitate insertion into the ear canal
- Clear sound quality, even with persistent ear issues
- Excellent for unique anatomy– helpful for people born without a full outer ear or with other structural differences
- Improved communication is especially advantageous in educational settings, professional environments, or noisy surroundings
If you or your child struggles with hearing in one or both ears, particularly as a result of persistent infections or conductive issues, bone conduction hearing devices might be worth exploring.
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