When most people think of hearing aids, they think of traditional devices that amplify sound through the ear canal. But for people with specific kinds of hearing loss, particularly those dealing with persistent ear problems or single-sided deafness, a different kind of technology could provide better clarity and comfort: bone conduction hearing devices.
The Capability of Bone Conduction Hearing Devices
With bone conduction hearing devices, the outer and middle ear are bypassed. Rather than depending on airwaves to transmit sound, these devices use the skull’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 when there is an obstruction or injury in the ear canal. Think about this example: When you cover your ears and are still able to hear the sound of your own voice when talking, that’s an illustration of bone conduction at work.
Bone Conduction vs. Conventional Hearing Aids
Conventional hearing aids increase sound and send it into the ear canal. This works well for people with sensorineural hearing loss, where the inner ear or auditory nerve is damaged. However, if there are problems with the external or middle ear caused by infection, fluid collection, or structural concerns, conventional hearing aids may not work efficiently or be comfortable. Bone conduction hearing devices are often a better option in these instances because they bypass the issue areas and send sound directly to your cochlea.
Bone Conduction Candidates
Situations where bone conduction devices are appropraite:
- Conductive hearing loss, when sound has trouble moving through the outer or middle ear at all.
- Persistent ear infections or drainage issues, where traditional hearing aids could aggravate the condition.
- Individuals with malformed ear canals or missing outer ears, who may not be candidates for conventional devices.
- Single-sided deafness (SSD), where one ear has severe hearing loss or no hearing. These devices offer a non-intrusive option that is frequently more comfortable, particularly for people, both young and old, who experience frequent ear problems.
Options that include implantable and non-implantable techniques:
There are two primary types of bone conduction hearing devices:
- External non-implantable devices are usually secured with a headband, softband, or adhesive pad. They are excellent for kids, those experimenting with bone conduction for the first time, or individuals who are not prepared for surgery.
- Implantable (surgically placed): These devices include a small implant under the skin that connects to an external sound processor. They tend to provide more robust performance and reliability for long-term users. A professional assessment by an audiologist or ENT specialist will identify the most suitable solution for you, considering your age, individual anatomy, and personal hearing objectives.
Perks of Using Bone Conduction Hearing Devices
- Ideal for sensitive ears – does not require insertion into the ear canal
- Good audio quality remains consistent, despite recurring problems with the ears
- Great for distinct anatomy– helpful for people born without a complete outer ear or with other structural variations
- Enhanced communication– especially in school, work, or noisy settings
If you or your child copes with hearing in one or both ears, particularly as a result of persistent infections or conductive problems, bone conduction hearing devices might be worth exploring.
Set up a consultation 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