Usually, the concept of hearing aids conjures up the idea of traditional devices that boost sound through the canal of the ear. But for people with specific kinds of hearing loss, especially those dealing with persistent ear issues or single-sided deafness, a different 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 relying 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 center. This means that even when the ear canal is obstructed or damaged, sound can still reach the auditory nerve. Think of it like this: If you’ve ever plugged your ears and still heard 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 works effectively for people with 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 accumulation, or structural problems, standard hearing aids may not be effective or comfortable. Bone conduction hearing devices are often a better solution in these instances because they skip over the problem areas and send sound directly to your 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 drainage problems, where traditional hearing aids could aggravate the condition.
• Individuals with misshapen ear canals or missing outer ears, who might not be prospects for conventional devices.
• Single-sided deafness (SSD), where one ear has profound hearing loss or no hearing. These devices provide a non-invasive alternative that is often more comfortable, particularly for kids and adults with persisting ear problems.

Options that include implantable and non-implantable techniques:

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

• Non-implantable (worn externally): These are usually kept in place with a headband, softband, or adhesive pad. They’re ideal for children, people trying out bone conduction for the first time, or individuals not prepared for surgery.
• Surgically implanted devices involve a tiny device placed underneath the skin, which is linked to a separate sound processor worn outside the body. Long-term users typically find that they provide more effective and dependable results. A professional evaluation by an audiologist or ENT specialist will determine the most suitable solution for you, considering your age, individual anatomy, and personal hearing objectives.

Key Benefits of Bone Conduction Hearing Devices

• Comfortable for sensitive ears– no need to put anything inside the ear canal
• Clear sound quality, despite having chronic ear issues
• Ideal for individuals with distinct physical characteristics – this option is especially helpful for people with congenital conditions impacting the outer ear or other physiological variations.
• Improved communication– particularly in school, work, or noisy environments

If you or your child struggles with hearing in one or both ears, especially as a result of persistent infections or conductive issues, bone conduction hearing devices could be worth exploring.

Book 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