Typically, the idea of hearing aids conjures up the idea of traditional devices that raise the volume of sound through the canal of the ear. For people struggling with specific hearing impairments, including persistent ear issues or unilateral deafness, an alternative option might supply improved sound quality and user comfort: bone conduction hearing aids.
The Capability of Bone Conduction Hearing Devices
With bone conduction hearing devices, the outer and middle ear are bypassed. Rather than depending on airwaves to convey sound, these devices utilize the head’s bones to channel vibrations directly to the cochlea, the inner ear’s sound-processing center. This means that even when the ear canal is blocked or damaged, sound can still get to the auditory nerve. Think of it this way: If you’ve ever stopped up your ears and still been able to hear your voice when speaking, that’s bone conduction.
Comparison between Bone Conduction and Traditional Hearing Devices
Conventional hearing aids increase sound and direct it into the ear canal. This works effectively for people who have sensorineural hearing loss, where the inner ear or auditory nerve is damaged. But if the problem is with the outer or middle ear, due to infection, fluid accumulation, or structural issues, conventional hearing aids may not be effective or comfortable. Bone conduction hearing devices are typically a better option in these instances because they bypass the issue areas and deliver sound straight to your cochlea.
Best Candidates For Bone Conduction
Bone conduction devices are beneficial for:
- Conductive hearing loss, when sound has difficulty moving through the outer or middle ear at all.
- Persistent ear infections or issues with fluid drainage could be intensified by conventional hearing aids.
- People with deformed 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 with persisting ear problems.
Implantable vs. Non-Implantable Solutions:
There are two principal categories of bone conduction choices: Implantable and non-implantable devices.
- Non-implantable (worn externally): These are typically held in place with a headband, softband, or sticky pad. They’re ideal for children, those trying out bone conduction for the first time, or individuals not ready 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 tend to offer more robust performance and stability for long-term users. A professional evaluation by an audiologist or ENT specialist will identify the most suitable solution for you, considering your age, particular anatomy, and personal hearing objectives.
Key Advantages of Bone Conduction Hearing Devices
- Suitable for sensitive ears – does not require insertion into the ear canal
- Great audio quality stays consistent, despite ongoing problems with the ears
- Ideal for people with distinct physical attributes – this option is particularly helpful for people with congenital conditions impacting the outer ear or other physiological variations.
- Enhanced communication– especially in school, work, or noisy environments
If you or your child struggles with hearing in one or both ears, particularly due to persistent infections or conductive problems, bone conduction hearing devices might 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
