Usually, the concept of hearing aids conjures up the thought of traditional devices that boost sound through the canal of the ear. But for individuals with specific kinds of hearing loss, particularly those dealing with chronic ear problems or single-sided deafness, a distinct type 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 transmit vibrations through the bones of the skull to the inner ear (cochlea), where the sound is processed. This allows sound to get to the auditory nerve even if there is an obstruction 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 while speaking, that’s an example of bone conduction working.
Bone Conduction vs. Traditional Hearing Aids
Conventional hearing aids boost sound and direct it through the ear canal. This works well for individuals with sensorineural hearing loss, where the inner ear or auditory nerve is damaged. 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 typically a better option in these instances because they bypass the problem areas and send sound directly to your cochlea.
Bone Conduction Candidates
Situations where bone conduction devices are appropriate:
- Conductive hearing loss, when sound has difficulty traveling through the outer or middle ear at all.
- Persistent ear infections or drainage problems, where conventional hearing aids could worsen the condition.
- Individuals with malformed ear canals or missing outer ears, who may not be prospects for traditional devices.
- Single-sided deafness (SSD), where one ear has severe hearing loss or no hearing. These devices offer a non-invasive option that is frequently more comfortable, especially for kids and adults who have recurring ear problems.
Options that include implantable and non-implantable techniques:
There are two main types of bone conduction hearing devices:
- Non-implantable (worn externally): These are usually held in place with a headband, softband, or sticky pad. They are perfect for children, people experimenting with bone conduction for the first time, or individuals who are not prepared for surgery.
- Surgically embeded devices consist of a tiny device placed beneath the skin, which is linked to a separate sound processor mounted outside the body. Long-term users often find that they supply more robust and dependable results. A professional evaluation by an audiologist or ENT specialist will identify the most appropriate option for you, considering your age, particular anatomy, and personal hearing objectives.
Key Benefits of Bone Conduction Hearing Devices
- Comfortable for sensitive ears– no need to put anything inside the ear canal
- Clear sound quality, despite having chronic ear issues
- Great for unique anatomy– helpful for individuals born without a complete outer ear or with other structural differences
- Enhanced communication– particularly in school, work, or noisy environments
If you or your child has difficulty hearing in one or both ears, particularly because of recurring infections or issues with sound transmission, it might be beneficial to consider bone conduction hearing devices.
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
