When the majority of individuals think about hearing aids, they think of traditional devices that amplify sound through the ear canal. But for people with specific kinds of hearing loss, especially those coping with chronic ear issues or single-sided deafness, a distinct type of technology could provide better quality and comfort: bone conduction hearing devices.
How Bone Conduction Hearing Devices Work
With bone conduction hearing devices, the outer and middle ear are bypassed. 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 reach the auditory nerve even when there is an obstruction or injury in the ear canal. Consider this example: When you put your hands over your ears and still manage to hear the sound of your own voice while speaking, that’s an illustration of bone conduction at work.
Distinction between Bone Conduction and Conventional Hearing Devices
Conventional 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 compromised. However, if there are issues with the external or middle ear caused by infection, fluid accumulation, or structural problems, standard hearing aids may not work efficiently or be comfortable. Bone conduction hearing devices are often a better solution in these instances because they bypass 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 difficulty traveling through the outer or middle ear at all.
- Persistent ear infections or problems with fluid drainage could be aggravated by conventional hearing aids.
- Individuals with deformed ear canals or the absence of outer ears, who may not qualify for traditional devices.
- A condition called unilateral deafness, where an individual experiences substantial or complete hearing loss in one ear. These devices offer a non-invasive option that is often more comfortable, especially for children and adults with recurring ear problems.
Options that include implantable and non-implantable solutions:
There are two principal classifications of bone conduction options: Implantable and non-implantable devices.
- External non-implantable devices are generally fastened using a headband, softband, or adhesive pad. They are excellent for children, those experimenting with bone conduction for the first time, or people who are not prepared for surgery.
- Implantable (surgically placed): These devices include a small implant under the skin that connects to an external sound processor. They usually provide stronger performance and stability for long-term users. A professional assessment by an audiologist or ENT specialist will determine the most suitable option for you, taking into account your age, particular anatomy, and personal hearing objectives.
Advantages of Using Bone Conduction Hearing Devices
- Comfortable for sensitive ears– no need to place anything inside the ear canal
- Clear sound quality, despite having chronic ear problems
- Ideal for individuals with distinct physical attributes – this option is particularly beneficial for people with congenital conditions impacting the outer ear or other physiological variations.
- Enhanced communication is especially beneficial in educational settings, professional environments, or noisy surroundings
If you or your child struggles with hearing in one or both ears, especially due to persistent infections or conductive issues, bone conduction hearing devices might be worth exploring.
Book an appointment with an audiologist today to get more 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