Typically, the concept of hearing aids invokes the thought of traditional devices that boost sound through the canal of the ear. But for individuals with specific kinds of hearing loss, especially those dealing with chronic ear issues or single-sided deafness, a distinct kind of technology could provide better quality and comfort: bone conduction hearing devices.
How Bone Conduction Hearing Devices Work
Bone conduction hearing devices function by bypassing the outer and middle ear. Rather than depending on airwaves to convey sound, these devices use the skull’s bones to direct vibrations directly to the cochlea, the inner ear’s sound-processing center. This means that even when the ear canal is blocked or damaged, sound can still reach the auditory nerve. Think of it this way: If you’ve ever stopped up your ears and still been able to hear your voice when talking, that’s bone conduction.
Bone Conduction vs. Conventional Hearing Aids
Standard hearing aids increase sound and send it into the ear canal. This works well for individuals with sensorineural hearing loss, where the inner ear or auditory nerve is compromised. However, if there are issues with the outer or middle ear dued to infection, fluid accumulation, or structural concerns, conventional hearing aids may not work well or be comfortable. Bone conduction hearing devices can be a more reliable alternative in such scenarios as they avoid the problematic regions and transmit sound directly to the cochlea.
Best Candidates For Bone Conduction
Bone conduction devices are beneficial for:
- 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 malformed ear canals or missing outer ears, who might not be candidates for conventional devices.
- Single-sided deafness (SSD), where one ear has profound hearing loss or no hearing. These devices provide a non-invasive alternative that is often more comfortable, especially for children and adults who have recurring ear problems.
Implantable vs. Non-Implantable Solutions:
There are two primary kinds of bone conduction hearing devices:
- Non-implantable (worn externally): These are usually held in place with a headband, softband, or sticky pad. They’re suitable for children, individuals trying out bone conduction for the first time, or people not prepared for surgery.
- Surgically implanted devices involve a tiny device inserted beneath the skin, which is linked to a separate sound processor mounted outside the body. Long-term users often find that they supply more robust and dependable results. A professional evaluation by an audiologist or ENT specialist will determine the most appropriate option for you, taking into account your age, particular anatomy, and personal hearing objectives.
Perks of Employing Bone Conduction Hearing Devices
- Ideal for sensitive ears – does not necessitate insertion into the ear canal
- Clear sound quality, despite having chronic ear problems
- Ideal for people with distinct physical attributes – this option is especially beneficial for people with congenital conditions affecting the outer ear or other anatomical variations.
- Enhanced communication is especially beneficial in instructional settings, professional environments, or loud surroundings
If you or your child copes with hearing in one or both ears, particularly as a result of chronic infections or conductive problems, bone conduction hearing devices might be worth exploring.
Book 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