When the majority of people think of hearing aids, they picture traditional devices that boost sound through the ear canal. But for individuals with specific types 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 Capability of Bone Conduction Hearing Devices
With bone conduction hearing devices, the outer and middle ear are bypassed. Rather than relying on airwaves to convey sound, these devices utilize the head’s bones to direct vibrations directly to the cochlea, the inner ear’s sound-processing center. This allows sound to reach the auditory nerve even if there is a blockage or injury in the ear canal. Consider this example: When you put your hands over your ears and still manage to hear the sound of your own voice when talking, that’s an illustration of bone conduction working.
Comparison between Bone Conduction and Conventional Hearing Devices
Standard hearing aids increase sound and send it into the ear canal. This works effectively for individuals 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, due to infection, fluid accumulation, or structural problems, standard hearing aids may not be reliable or comfortable. Bone conduction hearing devices are often a more reliable alternative in such situations as they avoid the problematic areas and transfer sound directly to the cochlea.
Bone Conduction Candidates
Bone conduction devices are helpful for:
- Sound waves are unable to pass through the outer or middle ear, resulting in conductive hearing loss.
- Chronic ear infections or drainage problems, where traditional hearing aids could aggravate the condition.
- Individuals with misshapen ear canals or missing outer ears, who might not be candidates for conventional devices.
- Single-sided deafness (SSD), where one ear has severe hearing loss or no hearing. These devices provide a non-invasive alternative that is often more comfortable, particularly for children and adults who have persisting ear issues.
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 adhesive pad. They’re suitable for children, individuals trying bone conduction for the first time, or individuals not ready for surgery.
- Surgically embeded devices consist of 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 on your age, anatomy, and hearing goals.
Perks of Using Bone Conduction Hearing Devices
- Comfortable for sensitive ears– no need to place anything inside the ear canal
- Clear sound quality, even with persistent ear problems
- Great for distinct anatomy– helpful for people born without a complete outer ear or with other structural differences
- Enhanced communication is particularly advantageous in educational settings, professional environments, or loud 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 could be worth exploring.
Set up 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