Usually, the idea of hearing aids conjures up the idea of traditional devices that boost sound through the canal of the ear. But for individuals with certain kinds of hearing loss, particularly those dealing with persistent 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 function by bypassing the outer and middle ear. Rather than sending sound through the air, they transmit vibrations through the bones of the head to the inner ear (cochlea), where the sound is processed. This allows sound to reach the auditory nerve even if there is an obstruction or injury in the ear canal. Think of it like this: If you’ve ever stopped up your ears and still heard your voice when talking, that’s bone conduction.
Bone Conduction vs. Conventional Hearing Aids
Conventional hearing aids increase sound and send it into the ear canal. This works effectively for individuals who have sensorineural hearing loss, where the inner ear or auditory nerve is damaged. On the other hand, if there are issues with the external or middle ear due to infection, fluid accumulation, or structural problems, standard hearing aids might not work efficiently or be comfortable. Bone conduction hearing devices can be a more reliable option in such scenarios as they avoid the problematic areas and transfer sound directly to the cochlea.
Bone Conduction Candidates
Bone conduction devices are beneficial for:
- Conductive hearing loss, when sound has difficulty moving through the outer or middle ear at all.
- Persistent ear infections or problems with fluid drainage could be aggravated by conventional hearing aids.
- People 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 gadgets offer a non-intrusive option that is frequently more comfortable, particularly for people, both young and old, who experience recurring ear issues.
Implantable vs. Non-Implantable Options:
There are two principal classifications of bone conduction choices: Implantable and non-implantable devices.
- External non-implantable devices are usually fastened using a headband, softband, or adhesive pad. They’re suitable for children, people trying bone conduction for the first time, or people not prepared for surgery.
- Surgically implanted devices consist of a tiny device inserted underneath the skin, which is linked to a separate sound processor worn outside the body. Long-term users typically find that they provide more robust and reliable results. A professional assessment by an audiologist or ENT specialist will determine the most appropriate solution for you, considering your age, particular anatomy, and personal hearing objectives.
Key Benefits of Bone Conduction Hearing Devices
- Ideal for sensitive ears – does not necessitate insertion into the ear canal
- Great audio quality remains consistent, despite recurring problems with the ears
- Ideal 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 is particularly beneficial in instructional settings, professional environments, or loud surroundings
If you or your child struggles with hearing in one or both ears, especially as a result of persistent infections or conductive problems, bone conduction hearing devices could 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