Usually, the concept of hearing aids conjures up the thought of conventional devices that boost sound through the canal of the ear. For people struggling with specific hearing impairments, including relentless ear problems or unilateral deafness, a different solution may supply improved sound quality and user comfort: bone conduction hearing aids.
The Capability of Bone Conduction Hearing Devices
Bone conduction hearing devices work by bypassing the outer and middle ear. Instead of transmitting sound through the air, they transmit vibrations through the bones of the head to the inner ear (cochlea), where the sound is processed. 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 put your hands over your ears and are still able to hear the sound of your own voice when speaking, that’s an example of bone conduction at work.
Bone Conduction vs. Traditional Hearing Aids
Conventional hearing aids increase sound and direct it into the ear canal. This works effectively for people with sensorineural hearing loss, where the inner ear or auditory nerve is compromised. But if the problem is with the outer or middle ear, as a result of infection, fluid accumulation, or structural problems, conventional hearing aids may not be effective or comfortable. Bone conduction hearing devices are typically a better option in these instances because they skip over the problem areas and deliver sound directly to your cochlea.
Bone Conduction Candidates
Situations where bone conduction devices are appropriate:
- Sound waves are unable to pass through the outer or middle ear, leading to conductive hearing loss.
- Persistent ear infections or problems with fluid drainage could be aggravated by conventional hearing aids.
- Individuals with flawed ear canals or the absence of outer ears, who may not qualify for traditional devices.
- Single-sided deafness (SSD), where one ear has profound hearing loss or no hearing. These gadgets provide a non-intrusive option that is frequently more comfortable, especially for people, both young and old, who experience frequent ear issues.
Implantable vs. Non-Implantable Options:
There are two primary classifications of bone conduction choices: Implantable and non-implantable devices.
- External non-implantable devices are usually secured with a headband, softband, or adhesive pad. They are excellent for children, those trying out bone conduction for the first time, or people who are not prepared for surgery.
- Implantable (surgically placed): These devices consist of a small implant under the skin that connects with an external sound processor. They usually provide stronger performance and stability for long-term users. Your audiologist or ENT specialist can help decide which option is right based upon your age, anatomy, and hearing goals.
Advantages of Using Bone Conduction Hearing Devices
- Suitable for sensitive ears – does not necessitate insertion into the ear canal
- Great audio quality stays consistent, despite recurring issues with the ears
- Great for distinct anatomy– helpful for individuals born without a complete outer ear or with other structural differences
- Enhanced communication– especially in school, work, or noisy environments
If you or your child copes with hearing in one or both ears, especially as a result of persistent infections or conductive issues, bone conduction hearing devices could be worth exploring.
Book an appointment with an audiologist today to get further 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