Usually, the concept of hearing aids invokes the thought of traditional devices that boost sound through the canal of the ear. But for individuals with certain kinds of hearing loss, especially those coping with chronic ear issues or single-sided deafness, a different kind of technology could offer better clarity and comfort: bone conduction hearing devices.
How Bone Conduction Hearing Devices Work
Bone conduction hearing devices function by bypassing the outer and middle ear. Rather than depending on airwaves to transmit sound, these devices utilize the head’s bones to direct vibrations directly to the cochlea, the inner ear’s sound-processing hub. This allows sound to get to the auditory nerve even if there is an obstruction or injury in the ear canal. Think of it like this: If you’ve ever plugged your ears and still heard your voice when talking, that’s bone conduction.
Bone Conduction vs. Conventional Hearing Aids
Conventional hearing aids amplify sound and direct it through the ear canal. This approach is especially helpful for individuals who have had damage to the inner ear or the nerve in charge of transferring sound, resulting in sensorineural hearing loss. But if the issue is with the outer or middle ear, due to infection, fluid accumulation, or structural problems, traditional hearing aids may not be effective or comfortable. Bone conduction hearing devices can be a more effective alternative in such scenarios as they steer clear of the problematic regions and transmit sound directly to the cochlea.
Bone Conduction Candidates
Situations where bone conduction devices are appropraite:
- Conductive hearing loss, when sound has difficulty travelling through the outer or middle ear at all.
- Relentless ear infections or problems with fluid drainage could be intensified by traditional hearing aids.
- People with misshapen ear canals or missing outer ears, who might not be prospects for traditional devices.
- A condition called one-sided deafness, where an individual experiences substantial or complete hearing loss in one ear. These gadgets offer a non-intrusive option that is typically more comfortable, especially for people, both young and old, who experience recurring ear problems.
Implantable vs. Non-Implantable Options:
There are two primary kinds of bone conduction hearing devices:
- External non-implantable devices are usually secured using a headband, softband, or adhesive pad. They’re ideal for children, individuals trying bone conduction for the first time, or individuals not ready for surgery.
- Surgically embeded devices involve a tiny device inserted beneath the skin, which is linked to a separate sound processor worn outside the body. They usually provide stronger performance and stability for long-term users. Your audiologist or ENT specialist can help decide which option is appropriate based upon your age, anatomy, and hearing goals.
Perks of Using Bone Conduction Hearing Devices
- Comfortable for sensitive ears– no need to put anything into the ear canal
- Clear sound quality, even with persistent ear issues
- Ideal for those with distinct physical attributes – this option is especially helpful for people with congenital conditions impacting the outer ear or other anatomical variations.
- Enhanced communication– particularly in school, work, or noisy settings
If you or your child has difficulty hearing in one or both ears, especially because of ongoing infections or issues with sound transmission, it might be helpful to think about bone conduction hearing devices.
Make an appointment with an audiologist today to get more 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