Typically, the idea of hearing aids invokes the idea of traditional devices that raise the volume of sound through the canal of the ear. For people struggling with specific hearing impairments, including persistent ear problems or unilateral deafness, a different option might provide enhanced sound quality and user comfort: bone conduction hearing aids.
The Functionality of Bone Conduction Hearing Devices
With bone conduction hearing devices, the outer and middle ear are bypassed. Instead of 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 when there is a blockage or injury in the ear canal. Think of it this way: If you’ve ever stopped up your ears and still been able to hear your voice when talking, that’s bone conduction.
Comparison between Bone Conduction and Conventional Hearing Aids
Standard hearing aids increase sound and direct it into the ear canal. This works well 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, as a result of infection, fluid accumulation, or structural problems, standard hearing aids might not be reliable or comfortable. Bone conduction hearing devices are typically a better solution in these instances because they skip over the problem areas and deliver sound directly to your cochlea.
Bone Conduction Candidates
Situations where bone conduction devices are appropriate:
- Conductive hearing loss, when sound has trouble moving through the outer or middle ear at all.
- Persistent ear infections or drainage issues, where traditional hearing aids could worsen the condition.
- 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 severe hearing loss or no hearing. These devices provide a non-invasive option that is often more comfortable, especially for kids and adults with persisting ear problems.
Options that include implantable and non-implantable techniques:
There are two primary kinds of bone conduction hearing devices:
- Non-implantable (worn externally): These are typically held in place with a headband, softband, or sticky pad. They’re ideal for children, individuals trying out bone conduction for the first time, or people not prepared for surgery.
- Implantable (surgically installed): These devices consist of a small implant under the skin that connects with an external sound processor. They tend to provide stronger performance and stability for long-term users. Your audiologist or ENT specialist can help determine which option is right 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
- Clear sound quality, despite having chronic ear issues
- 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– especially in school, work, or noisy settings
If you or your child struggles with hearing in one or both ears, particularly as a result of chronic infections or conductive problems, bone conduction hearing devices might 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