Usually, the idea of hearing aids invokes the idea of conventional devices that boost sound through the canal of the ear. But for people with specific kinds of hearing loss, particularly those coping with chronic ear problems or single-sided deafness, a distinct kind of technology could provide better quality and comfort: bone conduction hearing devices.
The Capability of Bone Conduction Hearing Devices
Bone conduction hearing devices work by bypassing the outer and middle ear. 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 hub. This means that even if the ear canal is obstructed or damaged, sound can still get to the auditory nerve. Consider this example: When you put your hands over your ears and are still able to hear the sound of your own voice when speaking, that’s an example of bone conduction at work.
Distinction between Bone Conduction and Traditional Hearing Devices
Conventional hearing aids amplify sound and funnel it through the ear canal. This works effectively for people who have 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 problems, standard hearing aids may not be reliable or comfortable. Bone conduction hearing devices are often a better option in these instances because they bypass the issue areas and deliver sound directly to your cochlea.
Bone Conduction Candidates
Bone conduction devices are helpful for:
- Conductive hearing loss, when sound has difficulty traveling through the outer or middle ear at all.
- Relentless ear infections or issues with fluid drainage could be aggravated by traditional hearing aids.
- People with flawed ear canals or the absence of outer ears, who may not qualify for traditional devices.
- Single-sided deafness (SSD), where one ear has profound hearing loss or no hearing. These gadgets provide a non-intrusive option that is typically more comfortable, particularly for people, both young and old, who experience recurring ear issues.
Options that include implantable and non-implantable techniques:
There are two primary types of bone conduction hearing devices:
- External non-implantable devices are usually secured with a headband, softband, or adhesive pad. They are perfect for children, people experimenting with bone conduction for the first time, or individuals who are not prepared for surgery.
- Implantable (surgically installed): 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 robust and reliable results. Your audiologist or ENT specialist can help determine which option is appropriate based upon your age, anatomy, and hearing goals.
Advantages of Using Bone Conduction Hearing Devices
- Comfortable for sensitive ears– no need to place anything into the ear canal
- Great audio quality remains consistent, despite ongoing problems with the ears
- Perfect for those with distinct physical attributes – this option is particularly helpful for people with congenital conditions affecting the outer ear or other physiological variations.
- Improved communication– especially in school, work, or noisy environments
If you or your child copes with hearing in one or both ears, particularly due to persistent infections or conductive issues, bone conduction hearing devices might be worth exploring.
Make an appointment with an audiologist today to get further 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