Usually, the idea of hearing aids invokes the idea of conventional devices that boost sound through the canal of the ear. For people struggling with specific hearing impairments, such as persistent ear problems or unilateral deafness, a different option may provide improved sound quality and user comfort: bone conduction hearing aids.
How Bone Conduction Hearing Devices Work
With bone conduction hearing devices, the outer and middle ear are bypassed. Rather than relying on airwaves to convey sound, these devices utilize the skull’s bones to channel vibrations directly to the cochlea, the inner ear’s sound-processing hub. This allows sound to reach the auditory nerve even if there is a blockage or injury in the ear canal. Think about this example: When you cover your ears and still manage to hear the sound of your own voice when talking, that’s an example of bone conduction working.
Bone Conduction vs. Traditional Hearing Aids
Traditional hearing aids boost sound and funnel it through the ear canal. This strategy is especially helpful for individuals who have experienced damage to the inner ear or the nerve responsible for transmitting sound, causing sensorineural hearing loss. However, if there are problems with the external or middle ear dued to infection, fluid accumulation, or structural problems, conventional hearing aids may not work efficiently or be comfortable. Bone conduction hearing devices are often a better option in these instances because they skip over the problem areas and send sound directly to your cochlea.
Best Candidates For Bone Conduction
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.
- People with deformed ear canals or the absence of outer ears, who might not qualify for traditional devices.
- A condition called one-sided deafness, where a person experiences significant or complete hearing loss in one ear. These devices provide a non-invasive alternative that is frequently more comfortable, especially for children and adults who have recurring ear issues.
Options that include implantable and non-implantable solutions:
There are two main kinds of bone conduction hearing devices:
- Non-implantable (worn externally): These are usually held in place with a headband, softband, or adhesive pad. They’re suitable for children, individuals trying bone conduction for the first time, or individuals not prepared for surgery.
- Surgically embeded devices consist of a tiny device inserted beneath the skin, which is linked to a separate sound processor mounted outside the body. They usually provide stronger performance and reliability for long-term users. A professional evaluation by an audiologist or ENT specialist will identify the most appropriate option for you, taking into account your age, individual anatomy, and personal hearing objectives.
Perks of Employing Bone Conduction Hearing Devices
- Ideal for sensitive ears – does not require insertion into the ear canal
- Good audio quality stays consistent, in spite of recurring problems with the ears
- Ideal for those with distinct physical characteristics – this option is particularly beneficial for people with congenital conditions affecting the outer ear or other physiological variations.
- Improved communication is especially advantageous in instructional settings, professional environments, or loud surroundings
If you or your child copes with hearing in one or both ears, particularly as a result of persistent infections or conductive issues, bone conduction hearing devices could be worth exploring.
Set up 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