Usually, the concept of hearing aids invokes the idea of traditional devices that boost sound through the canal of the ear. But for people with certain kinds of hearing loss, particularly those coping with chronic ear issues or single-sided deafness, a different kind of technology could provide 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 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 a blockage or injury in the ear canal. Consider this example: When you cover your ears and are still able to hear the sound of your own voice when speaking, that’s an illustration of bone conduction working.
Bone Conduction vs. Traditional Hearing Aids
Conventional hearing aids amplify sound and direct it through the ear canal. This works effectively for people who have sensorineural hearing loss, where the inner ear or auditory nerve is damaged. However, if there are problems with the outer or middle ear caused by infection, fluid collection, or structural concerns, conventional hearing aids might not work well or be comfortable. Bone conduction hearing devices are often a more effective option in such scenarios as they steer clear of the problematic regions and transmit sound directly to the cochlea.
Best Candidates For Bone Conduction
Situations where bone conduction devices are appropraite:
- Sound waves are not able to travel through the outer or middle ear, resulting in conductive hearing loss.
- Persistent ear infections or drainage issues, where traditional hearing aids could aggravate the condition.
- Individuals with misshapen ear canals or missing outer ears, who might not be prospects for conventional devices.
- A condition called one-sided deafness, where a person experiences substantial or total hearing loss in one ear. These devices provide a non-invasive alternative that is often more comfortable, particularly for children and adults with persisting ear problems.
Implantable vs. Non-Implantable Solutions:
There are two primary types of bone conduction hearing devices:
- External non-implantable devices are usually secured with a headband, softband, or adhesive pad. They’re ideal for children, individuals trying bone conduction for the first time, or people not prepared for surgery.
- Implantable (surgically placed): These devices consist of a small implant under the skin that connects to an external sound processor. They usually offer more robust performance and stability for long-term users. Your audiologist or ENT specialist can help determine which option is appropriate based upon your age, anatomy, and hearing goals.
Key Benefits of Bone Conduction Hearing Devices
- Comfortable for sensitive ears– no need to place anything into the ear canal
- Great audio quality stays consistent, despite ongoing problems with the ears
- Ideal for those with distinct physical attributes – this alternative is especially beneficial for people with congenital conditions affecting the outer ear or other anatomical 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 problems, bone conduction hearing devices might be worth exploring.
Set up a consultation 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