Typically, the idea of hearing aids conjures up the thought of traditional devices that boost sound through the canal of the ear. But for people with specific types of hearing loss, particularly those coping with persistent ear problems or single-sided deafness, a different kind of technology could offer better quality and comfort: bone conduction hearing devices.
The Capability of Bone Conduction Hearing Devices
With bone conduction hearing devices, the outer and middle ear are bypassed. Instead of transmitting sound through the air, they transfer vibrations through the bones of the skull to the inner ear (cochlea), where the sound is processed. This allows sound to reach the auditory nerve even when there is a blockage or injury in the ear canal. Consider this example: When you cover your ears and are still able to hear the sound of your own voice when talking, that’s an illustration of bone conduction working.
Comparison between Bone Conduction and Conventional Hearing Aids
Traditional hearing aids amplify sound and funnel it through the ear canal. This works effectively for individuals who have sensorineural hearing loss, where the inner ear or auditory nerve is compromised. But if the issue is with the outer or middle ear, due to infection, fluid accumulation, or structural problems, conventional 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 transfer sound directly to the cochlea.
Best Candidates For Bone Conduction
Situations where bone conduction devices are appropriate:
- Sound waves are not able to travel through the outer or middle ear, leading to conductive hearing loss.
- Chronic ear infections or drainage issues, where conventional hearing aids could worsen the condition.
- People with flawed ear canals or the absence of outer ears, who might not qualify for traditional devices.
- Single-sided deafness (SSD), where one ear has severe hearing loss or no hearing. These devices provide a non-invasive option that is often more comfortable, particularly for kids and adults who have recurring ear issues.
Options that include implantable and non-implantable solutions:
There are two main types of bone conduction hearing devices:
- External non-implantable devices are generally fastened using a headband, softband, or adhesive pad. They are perfect for children, people trying out bone conduction for the first time, or people who are not prepared for surgery.
- Surgically implanted devices involve a tiny device placed beneath the skin, which is linked to a separate sound processor worn outside the body. They usually offer stronger performance and stability for long-term users. A professional evaluation by an audiologist or ENT specialist will determine the most appropriate option for you, considering your age, particular anatomy, and personal hearing objectives.
Advantages of Using Bone Conduction Hearing Devices
- Suitable for sensitive ears – does not necessitate insertion into the ear canal
- Clear sound quality, despite having chronic ear problems
- Great for unique anatomy– helpful for individuals born without a full outer ear or with other structural differences
- Improved communication is particularly beneficial in instructional settings, professional environments, or loud surroundings
If you or your child has trouble hearing in one or both ears, particularly because of ongoing infections or problems with sound transmission, it might be helpful to consider 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