When most people think of hearing aids, they picture traditional devices that amplify sound through the ear canal. But for people with certain types of hearing loss, especially those coping with chronic ear problems or single-sided deafness, a different kind of technology could provide better quality and comfort: bone conduction hearing devices.
How Bone Conduction Hearing Devices Work
With bone conduction hearing devices, the outer and middle ear are bypassed. Rather than relying on airwaves to transmit 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 obstructed or damaged, sound can still get to the auditory nerve. Think about this example: When you put your hands over your ears and still manage to hear the sound of your own voice while talking, that’s an illustration of bone conduction at work.
Comparison between Bone Conduction and Traditional Hearing Aids
Traditional hearing aids boost sound and direct it through the ear canal. This works well for people who have sensorineural hearing loss, where the inner ear or auditory nerve is compromised. But if the issue is with the outer or middle ear, as a result of infection, fluid buildup, or structural issues, conventional hearing aids might not be reliable or comfortable. Bone conduction hearing devices can be a more effective alternative in such scenarios as they avoid the problematic areas and transmit sound directly to the cochlea.
Bone Conduction Candidates
Situations where bone conduction devices are appropriate:
- Conductive hearing loss, when sound has difficulty moving through the outer or middle ear at all.
- Persistent ear infections or drainage issues, where conventional hearing aids could aggravate the condition.
- Individuals with malformed ear canals or missing outer ears, who may not be candidates for traditional devices.
- A condition called one-sided deafness, where a person experiences substantial or complete hearing loss in one ear. These gadgets provide a non-intrusive option that is frequently more comfortable, particularly for individuals, both young and old, who experience frequent ear issues.
Implantable vs. Non-Implantable Options:
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 sticky pad. They are perfect for children, those experimenting with bone conduction for the first time, or people who are not prepared for surgery.
- Implantable (surgically placed): These devices consist of a small implant under the skin that connects with an external sound processor. Long-term users often find that they provide more effective and reliable results. A professional evaluation by an audiologist or ENT specialist will determine the most suitable solution 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
- Good audio quality remains consistent, in spite of recurring issues with the ears
- Great for unique anatomy– helpful for individuals born without a complete outer ear or with other structural variations
- Enhanced communication– particularly 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 problems with sound transmission, it might be helpful to think about bone conduction hearing devices.
Make 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