When most people think of hearing aids, they picture traditional devices that amplify sound through the ear canal. But for individuals with certain kinds of hearing loss, particularly those dealing with chronic ear problems or single-sided deafness, a distinct type of technology could provide better clarity and comfort: bone conduction hearing devices.

The Capability of Bone Conduction Hearing Devices

Bone conduction hearing devices work by bypassing the outer and middle ear. Rather than relying on airwaves to transmit sound, these devices utilize the head’s bones to direct vibrations directly to the cochlea, the inner ear’s sound-processing center. This allows sound to get to the auditory nerve even if there is a blockage 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. Conventional Hearing Aids

Conventional hearing aids amplify sound and funnel it through the ear canal. This works well for individuals who have sensorineural hearing loss, where the inner ear or auditory nerve is compromised. But if the issue is with the outer or middle ear, due to infection, fluid buildup, or structural problems, standard hearing aids might not be effective or comfortable. Bone conduction hearing devices are typically a better solution in these instances because they skip over the problem areas and send sound straight to your cochlea.

Bone Conduction Candidates

Situations where bone conduction devices are appropriate:

• Sound waves are unable to pass through the outer or middle ear, resulting in conductive hearing loss.
• Chronic ear infections or drainage problems, where traditional hearing aids could aggravate the condition.
• Individuals with deformed ear canals or the absence of outer ears, who might not qualify for traditional devices.
• Single-sided deafness (SSD), where one ear has severe hearing loss or no hearing. These devices offer a non-invasive alternative that is frequently more comfortable, particularly for children and adults who have recurring ear issues.

Options that include implantable and non-implantable techniques:

There are two primary types of bone conduction hearing devices:

• External non-implantable devices are generally fastened using 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.
• Surgically embeded devices involve a tiny device placed beneath the skin, which is linked to a separate sound processor mounted outside the body. Long-term users typically find that they supply more robust and dependable results. Your audiologist or ENT specialist can help determine which option is right based on your age, anatomy, and hearing goals.

Perks of Employing Bone Conduction Hearing Devices

• Comfortable for sensitive ears– no need to place anything into the ear canal
• Clear sound quality, even with persistent ear problems
• Perfect for those with distinct physical characteristics – this alternative is especially beneficial for individuals with congenital conditions impacting the outer ear or other physiological variations.
• Enhanced communication is particularly beneficial in educational settings, professional environments, or loud surroundings

If you or your child copes with hearing in one or both ears, particularly due to chronic infections or conductive issues, bone conduction hearing devices might be worth exploring.

Set up 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