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Usually, the concept of hearing aids invokes the thought of traditional devices that boost sound through the canal of the ear. For individuals struggling with certain hearing impairments, including persistent ear problems or unilateral deafness, an alternative option may provide enhanced sound quality and user comfort: bone conduction hearing aids.

The Functionality of Bone Conduction Hearing Devices

With bone conduction hearing devices, the outer and middle ear are bypassed. Rather than relying on airwaves to convey sound, these devices use the skull’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 obstructed or damaged, sound can still get to the auditory nerve. Think of it like this: If you’ve ever stopped up your ears and still heard your voice when talking, that’s bone conduction.

Bone Conduction vs. Conventional Hearing Aids

Conventional hearing aids amplify sound and funnel it through the ear canal. This works effectively for individuals with sensorineural hearing loss, where the inner ear or auditory nerve is compromised. On the other hand, if there are problems with the outer or middle ear caused by infection, fluid accumulation, or structural concerns, conventional hearing aids might not work well or be comfortable. Bone conduction hearing devices are often a more effective option in such situations as they avoid the problematic regions and transmit sound directly to the cochlea.

Best Candidates For Bone Conduction

Bone conduction devices are beneficial for:

  • Conductive hearing loss, when sound has difficulty traveling through the outer or middle ear at all.
  • Relentless ear infections or problems with fluid drainage could be aggravated by conventional hearing aids.
  • People with malformed ear canals or missing outer ears, who may not be prospects for traditional devices.
  • A condition called unilateral deafness, where a person experiences significant or complete hearing loss in one ear. These devices provide a non-invasive option that is often more comfortable, particularly for children and adults with recurring ear issues.

Options that include implantable and non-implantable solutions:

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

  • Non-implantable (worn externally): These are usually held in place with a headband, softband, or sticky pad. They’re suitable for children, individuals trying bone conduction for the first time, or people not ready for surgery.
  • Surgically implanted devices involve a tiny device inserted underneath the skin, which is connected to a separate sound processor worn outside the body. They usually offer more robust performance and stability for long-term users. A professional assessment by an audiologist or ENT specialist will identify the most suitable option for you, taking into account your age, individual anatomy, and personal hearing objectives.

Advantages of Employing Bone Conduction Hearing Devices

  • Comfortable for sensitive ears– no need to place anything into the ear canal
  • Great audio quality stays consistent, despite ongoing issues with the ears
  • Great for unique anatomy– helpful for people born without a complete outer ear or with other structural variations
  • Improved communication is especially beneficial in educational settings, professional environments, or noisy surroundings

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

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

The site information is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. To receive personalized advice or treatment, schedule an appointment.
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