Usually, the idea of hearing aids conjures up the thought of traditional devices that boost sound through the canal of the ear. But for people with specific types of hearing loss, particularly those dealing with persistent ear problems or single-sided deafness, a distinct type of technology could provide better quality and comfort: bone conduction hearing devices.

The Functionality of Bone Conduction Hearing Devices

Bone conduction hearing devices work by bypassing the outer and middle ear. 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 a blockage or injury in the ear canal. Consider this example: When you cover your ears and are still able to hear the sound of your own voice when talking, that’s an example of bone conduction working.

Bone Conduction vs. Traditional Hearing Aids

Standard hearing aids increase sound and send it into the ear canal. This works well for people who have sensorineural hearing loss, where the inner ear or auditory nerve is compromised. But if the problem is with the outer or middle ear, as a result of infection, fluid buildup, or structural problems, traditional hearing aids might not be effective or comfortable. Bone conduction hearing devices are typically a better option in these instances because they skip over the issue areas and send sound straight to your cochlea.

Best Candidates For Bone Conduction

Situations where bone conduction devices are appropriate:

• Sound waves are unable to pass through the outer or middle ear, leading to conductive hearing loss.
• Relentless ear infections or problems with fluid drainage could be intensified by traditional hearing aids.
• People with malformed 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 devices provide a non-intrusive option that is frequently more comfortable, especially for people, both young and old, who experience frequent ear issues.

Implantable vs. Non-Implantable Solutions:

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

• External non-implantable devices are usually secured with a headband, softband, or adhesive pad. They’re suitable for children, people trying bone conduction for the first time, or people not ready for surgery.
• Implantable (surgically installed): These devices include a small implant under the skin that connects to an external sound processor. Long-term users typically find that they provide more robust and dependable results. A professional evaluation by an audiologist or ENT specialist will identify the most suitable option for you, considering your age, individual anatomy, and personal hearing objectives.

Key Advantages of Bone Conduction Hearing Devices

• Comfortable for sensitive ears– no need to place anything inside the ear canal
• Clear sound quality, even with persistent ear issues
• Excellent for unique anatomy– helpful for individuals born without a complete outer ear or with other structural differences
• Improved communication– particularly in school, work, or noisy environments

If you or your child has difficulty hearing in one or both ears, especially because of recurring infections or issues 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