Usually, the concept of hearing aids conjures up the idea of traditional devices that raise the volume of sound through the canal of the ear. But for individuals with certain types of hearing loss, especially those coping with persistent ear problems or single-sided deafness, a distinct type of technology could offer better clarity and comfort: bone conduction hearing devices.

How Bone Conduction Hearing Devices Work

Bone conduction hearing devices work by bypassing the outer and middle ear. Rather than relying on airwaves to convey sound, these devices utilize the head’s bones to direct vibrations directly to the cochlea, the inner ear’s sound-processing hub. This means that even if the ear canal is blocked or damaged, sound can still get to the auditory nerve. Consider this example: When you cover your ears and still manage to hear the sound of your own voice when speaking, that’s an illustration of bone conduction working.

Bone Conduction vs. Conventional Hearing Aids

Conventional hearing aids amplify sound and direct it through 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 accumulation, or structural problems, conventional hearing aids may not work efficiently or be comfortable. Bone conduction hearing devices are often a more reliable alternative in such scenarios as they steer clear of the problematic areas and transmit sound directly to the cochlea.

Bone Conduction Candidates

Situations where bone conduction devices are appropriate:

• Conductive hearing loss, when sound has trouble traveling through the outer or middle ear at all.
• Persistent ear infections or drainage issues, where conventional hearing aids could worsen the condition.
• People with deformed ear canals or the absence of outer ears, who might not qualify for conventional devices.
• Single-sided deafness (SSD), where one ear has profound hearing loss or no hearing. These devices provide a non-intrusive option that is frequently more comfortable, particularly for individuals, both young and old, who experience recurring ear problems.

Implantable vs. Non-Implantable Solutions:

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

• Non-implantable (worn externally): These are typically held in place with a headband, softband, or adhesive pad. They’re ideal for children, people trying bone conduction for the first time, or people not prepared for surgery.
• Implantable (surgically placed): These devices consist of a small implant under the skin that connects with an external sound processor. They tend to offer stronger performance and reliability for long-term users. Your audiologist or ENT specialist can help decide which option is appropriate based on your age, anatomy, and hearing goals.

Key Benefits of Bone Conduction Hearing Devices

• Suitable for sensitive ears – does not require insertion into the ear canal
• Great audio quality remains consistent, despite ongoing problems with the ears
• Ideal for those with distinct physical attributes – this option is particularly beneficial for people with congenital conditions impacting the outer ear or other anatomical variations.
• Improved communication– especially in school, work, or noisy environments

If you or your child has difficulty hearing in one or both ears, particularly because of recurring infections or issues with sound transmission, it might be helpful to consider bone conduction hearing devices.

Schedule 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