Typically, the idea of hearing aids conjures up the idea of conventional devices that raise the volume of sound through the canal of the ear. For individuals struggling with specific hearing impairments, such as persistent ear issues or unilateral deafness, a different option might 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 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 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 speaking, that’s bone conduction.

Bone Conduction vs. Traditional Hearing Aids

Conventional hearing aids increase sound and direct it into the ear canal. This strategy is particularly effective for people who have experienced damage to the inner ear or the nerve responsible for transferring sound, resulting in sensorineural hearing loss. On the other hand, if there are problems with the outer or middle ear dued to infection, fluid collection, or structural concerns, standard hearing aids may not work efficiently or be comfortable. Bone conduction hearing devices are often a more reliable option in such scenarios as they steer clear of the problematic regions and transfer sound directly to the cochlea.

Bone Conduction Candidates

Bone conduction devices are helpful for:

• Sound waves are not able to pass through the outer or middle ear, leading to conductive hearing loss.
• Persistent ear infections or problems with fluid drainage could be aggravated by traditional hearing aids.
• People with misshapen ear canals or missing outer ears, who may not be prospects for conventional devices.
• Single-sided deafness (SSD), where one ear has severe hearing loss or no hearing. These gadgets provide a non-intrusive option that is typically more comfortable, particularly for people, both young and old, who experience frequent ear problems.

Implantable vs. Non-Implantable Options:

There are two primary categories of bone conduction choices: Implantable and non-implantable devices.

• External non-implantable devices are generally secured with a headband, softband, or adhesive pad. They’re ideal for children, those trying bone conduction for the first time, or individuals 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 usually offer more robust performance and stability for long-term users. A professional assessment by an audiologist or ENT specialist will determine the most appropriate solution for you, taking into account 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
• Clear sound quality, even with persistent ear problems
• Great for distinct anatomy– helpful for individuals born without a complete outer ear or with other structural differences
• Enhanced communication– particularly in school, work, or noisy environments

If you or your child has trouble hearing in one or both ears, especially because of recurring infections or problems with sound transmission, it may be helpful to consider bone conduction hearing devices.

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