Usually, the concept of hearing aids invokes the thought of conventional devices that boost sound through the canal of the ear. For individuals struggling with certain hearing impairments, including persistent ear issues or unilateral deafness, a different option may provide enhanced sound quality and user comfort: bone conduction hearing aids.
The Functionality of Bone Conduction Hearing Devices
Bone conduction hearing devices work by bypassing the outer and middle ear. Rather than depending on airwaves to convey sound, these devices utilize the skull’s bones to direct vibrations directly to the cochlea, the inner ear’s sound-processing center. This allows sound to get to the auditory nerve even when there is a blockage or injury in the ear canal. Think of it this way: If you’ve ever plugged your ears and still been able to hear your voice when speaking, that’s bone conduction.
Distinction between Bone Conduction and Traditional Hearing Devices
Traditional hearing aids boost sound and direct it through the ear canal. This works effectively for individuals 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, as a result of infection, fluid buildup, or structural issues, conventional hearing aids may not be reliable or comfortable. Bone conduction hearing devices are often a better solution in these instances because they bypass the problem areas and deliver sound straight to your cochlea.
Best Candidates For Bone Conduction
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 issues, where conventional hearing aids could worsen the condition.
- Individuals with misshapen ear canals or missing outer ears, who might not be prospects 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 frequently more comfortable, especially for individuals, both young and old, who experience recurring ear problems.
Options that include implantable and non-implantable solutions:
There are two primary classifications of bone conduction options: Implantable and non-implantable devices.
- Non-implantable (worn externally): These are usually held in place with a headband, softband, or adhesive pad. They are excellent for children, people trying out bone conduction for the first time, or people who are not prepared for surgery.
- Surgically embeded devices consist of a tiny device inserted beneath the skin, which is linked to a separate sound processor mounted outside the body. Long-term users often find that they supply more effective and dependable results. Your audiologist or ENT specialist can help determine which option is appropriate based upon your age, anatomy, and hearing goals.
Perks of Employing Bone Conduction Hearing Devices
- Comfortable for sensitive ears– no need to put anything into the ear canal
- Good audio quality remains consistent, in spite of recurring issues with the ears
- Excellent for distinct anatomy– helpful for people born without a full outer ear or with other structural variations
- Improved communication– especially in school, work, or noisy settings
If you or your child struggles with hearing in one or both ears, particularly due to persistent infections or conductive issues, bone conduction hearing devices could be worth exploring.
Schedule 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
