Typically, the concept of hearing aids invokes the thought of traditional devices that boost sound through the canal of the ear. For individuals struggling with specific hearing impairments, such as relentless ear issues or unilateral deafness, an alternative solution might provide improved 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 depending on airwaves to transmit sound, these devices utilize the head’s bones to direct vibrations directly to the cochlea, the inner ear’s sound-processing hub. This means that even when the ear canal is obstructed or damaged, sound can still get to the auditory nerve. Think of it this way: If you’ve ever stopped up your ears and still heard your voice when speaking, that’s bone conduction.
Comparison between Bone Conduction and Traditional Hearing Aids
Traditional hearing aids amplify sound and funnel it through the ear canal. This strategy is particularly effective for individuals who have had damage to the inner ear or the nerve in charge of transferring sound, causing sensorineural hearing loss. However, if there are issues with the external or middle ear caused by infection, fluid collection, or structural concerns, conventional hearing aids may not work well or be comfortable. Bone conduction hearing devices are typically a better solution in these instances because they bypass the problem areas and send sound directly to your cochlea.
Bone Conduction Candidates
Bone conduction devices are helpful for:
- Conductive hearing loss, when sound has trouble traveling 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 severe hearing loss or no hearing. These devices offer a non-invasive alternative that is frequently more comfortable, particularly for kids and adults who have recurring ear problems.
Options that include implantable and non-implantable solutions:
There are two main types of bone conduction hearing devices:
- Non-implantable (worn externally): These are typically held in place with a headband, softband, or adhesive pad. They are excellent for kids, those experimenting with bone conduction for the first time, or people who are not prepared for surgery.
- Surgically implanted devices involve a tiny device placed underneath the skin, which is connected to a separate sound processor mounted outside the body. They usually provide stronger performance and stability for long-term users. Your audiologist or ENT specialist can help determine which option is appropriate based upon your age, anatomy, and hearing goals.
Perks of Employing Bone Conduction Hearing Devices
- Comfortable for sensitive ears– no need to place anything 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 complete outer ear or with other structural variations
- Improved communication– particularly in school, work, or noisy environments
If you or your child struggles with hearing in one or both ears, especially due to persistent 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
