Usually, the idea of hearing aids conjures up the idea of traditional devices that raise the volume of sound through the canal of the ear. For people struggling with certain hearing impairments, such as relentless ear problems or unilateral deafness, an alternative solution may supply enhanced sound quality and user comfort: bone conduction hearing aids.
The Functionality of Bone Conduction Hearing Devices
Bone conduction hearing devices function by bypassing the outer and middle ear. Rather than relying on airwaves to convey sound, these devices use the skull’s bones to channel vibrations directly to the cochlea, the inner ear’s sound-processing center. This means that even when the ear canal is obstructed or damaged, sound can still reach the auditory nerve. Consider this example: When you put your hands over your ears and are still able to hear the sound of your own voice while talking, that’s an illustration of bone conduction at work.
Bone Conduction vs. Conventional Hearing Aids
Conventional hearing aids amplify sound and funnel it through the ear canal. This approach is particularly helpful for individuals who have experienced damage to the inner ear or the nerve responsible for transferring sound, resulting in sensorineural hearing loss. But if the problem is with the outer or middle ear, as a result of infection, fluid buildup, or structural problems, standard hearing aids might not be effective or comfortable. Bone conduction hearing devices are often a better option in these instances because they skip over the problem areas and send sound straight to your cochlea.
Bone Conduction Candidates
Situations where bone conduction devices are appropriate:
- Conductive hearing loss, when sound has difficulty traveling through the outer or middle ear at all.
- Persistent ear infections or drainage issues, where traditional hearing aids could aggravate the condition.
- Individuals with flawed ear canals or the absence of outer ears, who might not qualify for conventional devices.
- Single-sided deafness (SSD), where one ear has severe hearing loss or no hearing. These devices provide a non-intrusive option that is typically more comfortable, especially for people, both young and old, who experience frequent ear problems.
Options that include implantable and non-implantable techniques:
There are two main kinds of bone conduction hearing devices:
- Non-implantable (worn externally): These are typically kept in place with a headband, softband, or sticky pad. They’re ideal for children, individuals trying out bone conduction for the first time, or individuals not prepared for surgery.
- Surgically embeded devices consist of a tiny device placed beneath the skin, which is linked to a separate sound processor worn outside the body. Long-term users often find that they provide more effective and reliable results. Your audiologist or ENT specialist can help determine which option is appropriate based upon 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
- Good audio quality stays consistent, despite recurring issues with the ears
- Excellent for distinct anatomy– helpful for individuals born without a full outer ear or with other structural differences
- Improved communication is especially beneficial in instructional settings, professional environments, or noisy surroundings
If you or your child struggles with hearing in one or both ears, especially as a result of chronic infections or conductive issues, bone conduction hearing devices might be worth exploring.
Schedule a consultation 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
