When most people think of hearing aids, they think of conventional devices that boost sound through the ear canal. But for people with specific kinds of hearing loss, especially those dealing with persistent ear problems or single-sided deafness, a different type of technology could provide better clarity and comfort: bone conduction hearing devices.
How Bone Conduction Hearing Devices Work
Bone conduction hearing devices work by bypassing the outer and middle ear. Rather than relying on airwaves to convey sound, these devices utilize the skull’s bones to direct vibrations directly to the cochlea, the inner ear’s sound-processing center. This means that even if the ear canal is blocked or damaged, sound can still get to the auditory nerve. Think about this example: When you cover your ears and still manage to hear the sound of your own voice while speaking, that’s an illustration of bone conduction working.
Distinction between Bone Conduction and Traditional Hearing Aids
Conventional hearing aids increase sound and direct it into the ear canal. This works well for people with 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, standard hearing aids may not be reliable or comfortable. Bone conduction hearing devices can be a more effective alternative in such scenarios as they steer clear of the problematic regions and transfer sound directly to the cochlea.
Bone Conduction Candidates
Situations where bone conduction devices are appropriate:
- Sound waves are not able to pass through the outer or middle ear, resulting in conductive hearing loss.
- Relentless ear infections or issues with fluid drainage could be intensified by conventional hearing aids.
- People with misshapen ear canals or missing outer ears, who might not be prospects for traditional devices.
- A condition called one-sided deafness, where an individual experiences substantial or total hearing loss in one ear. These gadgets provide a non-intrusive option that is typically more comfortable, especially for individuals, both young and old, who experience recurring ear issues.
Implantable vs. Non-Implantable Solutions:
There are two primary classifications 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 are perfect for kids, those experimenting with bone conduction for the first time, or people who are not prepared for surgery.
- Implantable (surgically installed): These devices include a small implant under the skin that connects with an external sound processor. They tend to provide stronger performance and stability for long-term users. Your audiologist or ENT specialist can help decide which option is appropriate based on your age, anatomy, and hearing goals.
Key Benefits of Bone Conduction Hearing Devices
- Suitable for sensitive ears – does not require insertion into the ear canal
- Good audio quality remains consistent, despite ongoing problems with the ears
- Perfect for those with distinct physical characteristics – this option is especially helpful for individuals 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 has trouble hearing in one or both ears, particularly because of recurring infections or problems with sound transmission, it might be helpful to think about bone conduction hearing devices.
Make an appointment with an audiologist today to get more information.
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
