When the majority of people think of hearing aids, they think of traditional devices that boost sound through the ear canal. But for people with certain kinds of hearing loss, particularly those coping with persistent ear issues or single-sided deafness, a distinct kind of technology could offer 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 depending on airwaves to convey sound, these devices use the head’s bones to direct vibrations directly to the cochlea, the inner ear’s sound-processing hub. This means that even if the ear canal is obstructed or damaged, sound can still get to the auditory nerve. Think about this example: When you put your hands over your ears and still manage to hear the sound of your own voice while talking, that’s an example of bone conduction working.
Comparison between Bone Conduction and Conventional Hearing Devices
Conventional hearing aids increase sound and send it into the ear canal. This works effectively for individuals with sensorineural hearing loss, where the inner ear or auditory nerve is damaged. However, if there are issues with the outer or middle ear caused by infection, fluid collection, or structural problems, conventional hearing aids might not work well or be comfortable. Bone conduction hearing devices are typically a better solution in these instances because they skip over the problem areas and deliver sound straight to your 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 issues with fluid drainage could be intensified by conventional hearing aids.
- Individuals with flawed ear canals or the absence of outer ears, who might not qualify for conventional devices.
- A condition called one-sided deafness, where an individual experiences significant or total hearing loss in one ear. These devices provide a non-invasive option that is frequently more comfortable, particularly for kids and adults with persisting ear problems.
Implantable vs. Non-Implantable Solutions:
There are two principal categories of bone conduction options: Implantable and non-implantable devices.
- Non-implantable (worn externally): These are typically kept in place with a headband, softband, or adhesive pad. They’re suitable for children, those trying bone conduction for the first time, or people not ready for surgery.
- Surgically embeded 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 supply more effective and dependable results. A professional assessment by an audiologist or ENT specialist will identify the most suitable solution for you, considering your age, particular anatomy, and personal hearing objectives.
Perks of Employing Bone Conduction Hearing Devices
- Ideal for sensitive ears – does not necessitate insertion into the ear canal
- Good audio quality remains consistent, in spite of recurring problems with the ears
- Great for distinct anatomy– helpful for individuals born without a complete outer ear or with other structural variations
- Enhanced communication is particularly beneficial in educational settings, professional environments, or noisy surroundings
If you or your child struggles with hearing in one or both ears, especially as a result of chronic infections or conductive problems, bone conduction hearing devices might 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