Usually, the idea of hearing aids invokes the idea of conventional devices that raise the volume of sound through the canal of the ear. For people struggling with certain hearing impairments, including persistent ear issues or unilateral deafness, a different solution may supply enhanced sound quality and user comfort: bone conduction hearing aids.
How Bone Conduction Hearing Devices Work
Bone conduction hearing devices work by bypassing the outer and middle ear. Instead of transmitting sound through the air, they transfer 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. Think of it like this: If you’ve ever plugged your ears and still been able to hear your voice when talking, that’s bone conduction.
Distinction between Bone Conduction and Conventional Hearing Aids
Conventional hearing aids increase sound and direct it into the ear canal. This works well 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 accumulation, or structural problems, traditional hearing aids might not be reliable or comfortable. Bone conduction hearing devices are often a better option in these cases because they bypass the issue areas and deliver sound directly to your cochlea.
Bone Conduction Candidates
Bone conduction devices are beneficial for:
- Sound waves are not able to pass through the outer or middle ear, resulting in conductive hearing loss.
- Chronic ear infections or drainage issues, where traditional hearing aids could worsen the condition.
- Individuals with deformed ear canals or the absence of outer ears, who might not qualify for traditional devices.
- Single-sided deafness (SSD), where one ear has severe hearing loss or no hearing. These gadgets provide a non-intrusive option that is frequently more comfortable, especially for people, both young and old, who experience frequent ear problems.
Implantable vs. Non-Implantable Options:
There are two principal categories of bone conduction choices: Implantable and non-implantable devices.
- External non-implantable devices are usually secured using a headband, softband, or adhesive pad. They’re ideal for children, those trying bone conduction for the first time, or people not ready for surgery.
- Implantable (surgically placed): These devices include a small implant under the skin that connects to an external sound processor. Long-term users often find that they provide more effective and reliable results. Your audiologist or ENT specialist can help determine which option is right based upon your age, anatomy, and hearing goals.
Perks of Employing Bone Conduction Hearing Devices
- Suitable for sensitive ears – does not necessitate insertion into the ear canal
- Great audio quality remains consistent, in spite of recurring issues with the ears
- Perfect for individuals with distinct physical characteristics – this alternative is especially beneficial for people with congenital conditions affecting the outer ear or other anatomical variations.
- Enhanced communication is particularly beneficial in instructional settings, professional environments, or loud surroundings
If you or your child has difficulty hearing in one or both ears, particularly because of ongoing infections or problems with sound transmission, it might be helpful to consider bone conduction hearing devices.
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
