Usually, the concept 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, including relentless ear issues or unilateral deafness, an alternative option may supply 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. Rather than relying on airwaves to transmit sound, these devices use the head’s bones to channel vibrations directly to the cochlea, the inner ear’s sound-processing center. This allows sound to reach the auditory nerve even if there is a blockage or injury in the ear canal. Think of it this way: If you’ve ever stopped up your ears and still heard your voice when talking, that’s bone conduction.
Distinction between Bone Conduction and Traditional Hearing Aids
Conventional hearing aids boost sound and direct it through the ear canal. This works effectively for people with sensorineural hearing loss, where the inner ear or auditory nerve is compromised. However, if there are issues with the outer or middle ear dued to infection, fluid collection, or structural concerns, conventional hearing aids might not work well or be comfortable. Bone conduction hearing devices are often a better option in these instances because they skip over the problem areas and deliver sound straight to your cochlea.
Best Candidates For Bone Conduction
Situations where bone conduction devices are appropraite:
- Conductive hearing loss, when sound has difficulty moving through the outer or middle ear at all.
- Persistent ear infections or drainage issues, where traditional hearing aids could aggravate the condition.
- People with misshapen ear canals or missing outer ears, who may not be candidates for traditional devices.
- A condition known as one-sided deafness, where an individual experiences significant or complete hearing loss in one ear. These devices offer a non-invasive option that is frequently more comfortable, especially for kids and adults with recurring ear issues.
Options that include implantable and non-implantable techniques:
There are two primary classifications of bone conduction choices: Implantable and non-implantable devices.
- Non-implantable (worn externally): These are usually held in place 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 installed): These devices consist of a small implant under the skin that connects to an external sound processor. They usually offer more robust performance and reliability for long-term users. Your audiologist or ENT specialist can help determine which option is appropriate based on your age, anatomy, and hearing goals.
Key Advantages of Bone Conduction Hearing Devices
- Comfortable for sensitive ears– no need to place anything into the ear canal
- Clear sound quality, despite having persistent ear problems
- Perfect for individuals with distinct physical characteristics – this alternative is especially helpful for individuals with congenital conditions affecting the outer ear or other physiological variations.
- Improved communication is especially advantageous in educational settings, professional environments, or loud surroundings
If you or your child struggles with hearing in one or both ears, especially due to persistent infections or conductive issues, bone conduction hearing devices might be worth exploring.
Set up an assessment 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
