Typically, the concept of hearing aids invokes the idea of traditional devices that raise the volume of sound through the canal of the ear. For individuals struggling with certain hearing impairments, including relentless ear problems or unilateral deafness, an alternative solution might provide improved sound quality and user comfort: bone conduction hearing aids.
How Bone Conduction Hearing Devices Work
Bone conduction hearing devices function by bypassing the outer and middle ear. Rather than sending sound through the air, they transfer vibrations through the bones of the head to the inner ear (cochlea), where the sound is processed. This means that even when the ear canal is obstructed or damaged, sound can still reach the auditory nerve. Consider this example: When you cover your ears and are still able to hear the sound of your own voice while talking, that’s an example of bone conduction working.
Distinction between Bone Conduction and Conventional Hearing Devices
Conventional hearing aids amplify sound and direct it through the ear canal. This strategy is particularly effective for individuals who have experienced damage to the inner ear or the nerve in charge of transferring sound, resulting in sensorineural hearing loss. But if the problem is with the outer or middle ear, due to infection, fluid accumulation, or structural issues, traditional hearing aids may not be reliable or comfortable. Bone conduction hearing devices are often a more reliable alternative in such situations as they steer clear of the problematic areas and transmit sound directly to the cochlea.
Bone Conduction Candidates
Bone conduction devices are beneficial 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 worsen the condition.
- People with malformed ear canals or missing outer ears, who might not be prospects for traditional devices.
- A condition known as unilateral deafness, where a person experiences substantial or complete hearing loss in one ear. These devices offer a non-invasive option that is frequently more comfortable, especially for children and adults with persisting ear problems.
Options that include implantable and non-implantable solutions:
There are two primary kinds of bone conduction hearing devices:
- Non-implantable (worn externally): These are typically kept in place with a headband, softband, or adhesive pad. They’re suitable for children, those trying out bone conduction for the first time, or individuals 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 typically find that they provide more robust and reliable results. Your audiologist or ENT specialist can help decide which option is appropriate based on your age, anatomy, and hearing goals.
Advantages of Employing Bone Conduction Hearing Devices
- Comfortable for sensitive ears– no need to put anything into the ear canal
- Good audio quality remains consistent, despite recurring issues with the ears
- Perfect for people with distinct physical attributes – this alternative is especially beneficial for people with congenital conditions affecting the outer ear or other physiological variations.
- Enhanced communication is particularly advantageous in educational settings, professional environments, or loud surroundings
If you or your child copes with hearing in one or both ears, particularly as a result of persistent infections or conductive issues, bone conduction hearing devices might 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