Typically, the idea of hearing aids conjures up the thought of traditional devices that raise the volume of sound through the canal of the ear. But for people with specific types of hearing loss, especially those coping with chronic ear issues or single-sided deafness, a different type of technology could offer better clarity and comfort: bone conduction hearing devices.
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 transfer vibrations through the bones of the skull to the inner ear (cochlea), where the sound is processed. This allows sound to get to the auditory nerve even when there is a blockage or injury in the ear canal. Consider this example: When you cover your ears and are still able to hear the sound of your own voice when speaking, that’s an illustration of bone conduction working.
Bone Conduction vs. Traditional Hearing Aids
Traditional hearing aids amplify sound and funnel it through the ear canal. This works effectively for individuals who have sensorineural hearing loss, where the inner ear or auditory nerve is damaged. But if the issue is with the outer or middle ear, due to infection, fluid accumulation, or structural issues, traditional hearing aids might not be effective or comfortable. Bone conduction hearing devices can be a more effective option in such scenarios as they steer clear of the problematic regions and transfer sound directly to the cochlea.
Best Candidates For Bone Conduction
Bone conduction devices are helpful for:
- Conductive hearing loss, when sound has difficulty traveling through the outer or middle ear at all.
- Relentless ear infections or problems with fluid drainage could be aggravated by traditional hearing aids.
- Individuals with malformed ear canals or missing outer ears, who might not be candidates for traditional devices.
- A condition called unilateral deafness, where an individual experiences substantial or total hearing loss in one ear. These devices provide a non-intrusive option that is typically more comfortable, especially for people, both young and old, who experience recurring ear problems.
Options that include implantable and non-implantable techniques:
There are two principal categories of bone conduction choices: Implantable and non-implantable devices.
- Non-implantable (worn externally): These are typically kept in place with a headband, softband, or adhesive pad. They’re suitable for children, individuals trying bone conduction for the first time, or people not ready 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 stability for long-term users. A professional evaluation by an audiologist or ENT specialist will determine the most appropriate option for you, taking into account your age, individual anatomy, and personal hearing objectives.
Key Benefits of Bone Conduction Hearing Devices
- Suitable for sensitive ears – does not necessitate insertion into the ear canal
- Great audio quality remains consistent, in spite of recurring issues with the ears
- Ideal for those with distinct physical attributes – this alternative is particularly helpful for individuals with congenital conditions impacting the outer ear or other physiological variations.
- Enhanced communication– especially in school, work, or noisy settings
If you or your child has trouble hearing in one or both ears, particularly because of ongoing infections or issues with sound transmission, it may be helpful to consider bone conduction hearing devices.
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