Typically, the concept of hearing aids conjures up the idea of conventional devices that boost sound through the canal of the ear. But for people with specific kinds of hearing loss, especially those dealing with persistent ear problems or single-sided deafness, a distinct kind 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 depending on airwaves to transmit 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 reach the auditory nerve. Think of it like this: If you’ve ever stopped up your ears and still heard your voice when speaking, that’s bone conduction.
Distinction between Bone Conduction and Conventional Hearing Devices
Conventional hearing aids amplify sound and funnel it through the ear canal. This works effectively for people who have sensorineural hearing loss, where the inner ear or auditory nerve is compromised. However, if there are problems with the external or middle ear caused by infection, fluid collection, or structural concerns, standard hearing aids might not work efficiently or be comfortable. Bone conduction hearing devices are typically a better solution in these instances because they skip over the problem areas and send sound straight to your cochlea.
Best Candidates For Bone Conduction
Situations where bone conduction devices are appropriate:
- Conductive hearing loss, when sound has difficulty moving through the outer or middle ear at all.
- Chronic ear infections or drainage issues, where traditional hearing aids could worsen the condition.
- Individuals with deformed 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 devices offer a non-invasive option that is often more comfortable, especially for children and adults who have recurring ear issues.
Options that include implantable and non-implantable techniques:
There are two primary categories 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’re suitable for children, individuals trying bone conduction for the first time, or individuals not ready for surgery.
- Implantable (surgically placed): These devices consist of a small implant under the skin that connects to an external sound processor. They tend to provide stronger performance and reliability for long-term users. Your audiologist or ENT specialist can help decide which option is right based on your age, anatomy, and hearing goals.
Key Benefits of Bone Conduction Hearing Devices
- Suitable for sensitive ears – does not necessitate insertion into the ear canal
- Great audio quality stays consistent, despite ongoing issues with the ears
- Great for distinct anatomy– helpful for people born without a full outer ear or with other structural variations
- Improved communication is especially beneficial in educational settings, professional environments, or loud surroundings
If you or your child struggles with hearing in one or both ears, particularly 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
