Typically, the concept 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, such as persistent ear problems or unilateral deafness, a different option might provide improved sound quality and user comfort: bone conduction hearing aids.
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 transfer vibrations through the bones of the head to the inner ear (cochlea), where the sound is processed. This allows sound to get to the auditory nerve even if there is a blockage or injury in the ear canal. Consider this example: When you put your hands over your ears and are still able to hear the sound of your own voice when speaking, that’s an example of bone conduction at work.
Bone Conduction vs. Conventional Hearing Aids
Conventional hearing aids boost sound and direct it through the ear canal. This approach is especially effective for people who have experienced damage to the inner ear or the nerve in charge of transmitting sound, causing sensorineural hearing loss. But if the issue is with the outer or middle ear, due to infection, fluid buildup, or structural issues, standard hearing aids might not be effective or comfortable. Bone conduction hearing devices are often a better option in these instances because they skip over the issue areas and deliver sound directly to your cochlea.
Bone Conduction Candidates
Situations where bone conduction devices are appropriate:
- Conductive hearing loss, when sound has trouble traveling through the outer or middle ear at all.
- Chronic ear infections or drainage problems, where conventional hearing aids could worsen the condition.
- Individuals with malformed ear canals or missing outer ears, who might not be candidates for traditional devices.
- Single-sided deafness (SSD), where one ear has severe hearing loss or no hearing. These devices provide a non-invasive alternative that is frequently more comfortable, especially for children and adults with persisting ear issues.
Options that include implantable and non-implantable techniques:
There are two principal classifications of bone conduction options: Implantable and non-implantable devices.
- External non-implantable devices are generally fastened with a headband, softband, or adhesive pad. They are excellent for kids, those experimenting with bone conduction for the first time, or individuals who are not prepared for surgery.
- Implantable (surgically placed): These devices include a small implant under the skin that connects to an external sound processor. They tend to provide stronger performance and stability for long-term users. A professional assessment by an audiologist or ENT specialist will identify the most appropriate solution for you, taking into account your age, particular anatomy, and personal hearing objectives.
Advantages of Using Bone Conduction Hearing Devices
- Comfortable for sensitive ears– no need to put anything into the ear canal
- Clear sound quality, even with persistent ear issues
- Perfect for individuals with distinct physical attributes – this option is particularly beneficial for people with congenital conditions affecting the outer ear or other anatomical variations.
- Enhanced communication is especially beneficial in educational settings, professional environments, or loud surroundings
If you or your child copes with hearing in one or both ears, especially as a result of persistent infections or conductive problems, 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