When the majority of individuals think about hearing aids, they think of traditional devices that amplify sound through the ear canal. But for people with specific kinds of hearing loss, especially those dealing with chronic ear problems or single-sided deafness, a different kind of technology could provide better quality and comfort: bone conduction hearing devices.
The Functionality of Bone Conduction Hearing Devices
Bone conduction hearing devices function by bypassing the outer and middle ear. Rather than transmitting sound through the air, they transfer vibrations through the bones of the skull to the inner ear (cochlea), where the sound is processed. 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 heard your voice when talking, that’s bone conduction.
Bone Conduction vs. Traditional Hearing Aids
Conventional hearing aids increase sound and direct it into the ear canal. This strategy is particularly effective for individuals who have experienced damage to the inner ear or the nerve in charge of transmitting sound, causing sensorineural hearing loss. But if the issue 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 more effective option in such situations as they avoid the problematic regions and transmit sound directly to the cochlea.
Best Candidates For Bone Conduction
Situations where bone conduction devices are appropriate:
- Conductive hearing loss, when sound has trouble moving through the outer or middle ear at all.
- Persistent ear infections or problems with fluid drainage could be intensified by conventional hearing aids.
- People with deformed ear canals or the absence of outer ears, who may not qualify for conventional devices.
- A condition known as one-sided deafness, where an individual experiences substantial or total hearing loss in one ear. These devices offer a non-invasive alternative that is often more comfortable, particularly for children and adults who have persisting ear problems.
Options that include implantable and non-implantable solutions:
There are two principal classifications of bone conduction options: Implantable and non-implantable devices.
- Non-implantable (worn externally): These are typically held in place with a headband, softband, or adhesive pad. They are excellent for children, people experimenting with bone conduction for the first time, or individuals who are not prepared for surgery.
- Implantable (surgically placed): These devices include a small implant under the skin that connects to an external sound processor. They usually provide stronger performance and reliability for long-term users. A professional assessment by an audiologist or ENT specialist will identify the most suitable option for you, taking into account your age, individual anatomy, and personal hearing objectives.
Advantages of Using Bone Conduction Hearing Devices
- Comfortable for sensitive ears– no need to place anything into the ear canal
- Good audio quality stays consistent, despite ongoing issues with the ears
- Ideal for those with distinct physical characteristics – this option is especially helpful for individuals with congenital conditions impacting the outer ear or other physiological variations.
- Improved communication– especially in school, work, or noisy environments
If you or your child struggles with hearing in one or both ears, particularly as a result of persistent infections or conductive problems, bone conduction hearing devices could be worth exploring.
Schedule 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
