Usually, the idea of hearing aids invokes the idea of traditional devices that raise the volume of sound through the canal of the ear. But for people with specific kinds of hearing loss, particularly those dealing with persistent ear issues or single-sided deafness, a different type of technology could offer better clarity and comfort: bone conduction hearing devices.
The Functionality of Bone Conduction Hearing Devices
With bone conduction hearing devices, the outer and middle ear are bypassed. Rather than sending sound through the air, they transfer vibrations through the bones of the skull to the inner ear (cochlea), where the sound is processed. This means that even when the ear canal is obstructed or damaged, sound can still reach the auditory nerve. Think of it this way: If you’ve ever plugged your ears and still heard your voice when talking, that’s bone conduction.
Bone Conduction vs. Conventional Hearing Aids
Standard hearing aids increase sound and send it into the ear canal. This works well for individuals with sensorineural hearing loss, where the inner ear or auditory nerve is compromised. But if the issue is with the outer or middle ear, as a result of infection, fluid buildup, or structural issues, conventional hearing aids might not be reliable or comfortable. Bone conduction hearing devices are often a better option in these cases because they skip over the issue areas and deliver sound straight to your cochlea.
Best Candidates For Bone Conduction
Situations where bone conduction devices are appropriate:
- Conductive hearing loss, when sound has difficulty moving through the outer or middle ear at all.
- Relentless ear infections or issues with fluid drainage could be intensified by conventional hearing aids.
- Individuals with deformed 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 offer a non-intrusive option that is typically more comfortable, particularly for people, both young and old, who experience recurring 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 held in place with a headband, softband, or adhesive pad. They are perfect for children, those experimenting with bone conduction for the first time, or people who are not prepared for surgery.
- Implantable (surgically placed): These devices consist of a small implant under the skin that connects to an external sound processor. Long-term users typically find that they provide more robust and reliable results. 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 put anything into the ear canal
- Clear sound quality, despite having persistent ear issues
- Excellent for unique anatomy– helpful for individuals born without a full outer ear or with other structural variations
- Enhanced communication– particularly in school, work, or noisy settings
If you or your child copes with hearing in one or both ears, particularly as a result of chronic infections or conductive problems, bone conduction hearing devices could 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