Bone Conduction Hearing Devices – What Are They?

Woman reading to a baby with cochlear implants while sitting on the couch

When most individuals think about hearing aids, they think of conventional devices that boost sound through the ear canal. But for people with specific types of hearing loss, especially those dealing with persistent ear issues or single-sided deafness, a different type of technology could provide better quality and comfort: bone conduction hearing devices.

The Functionality of Bone Conduction Hearing Devices

Bone conduction hearing devices function by bypassing the outer and middle ear. Rather than 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 get to the auditory nerve even if there is a blockage or injury in the ear canal. 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. Conventional Hearing Aids

Standard hearing aids increase sound and direct it into the ear canal. This works well for people who have sensorineural hearing loss, where the inner ear or auditory nerve is damaged. But if the problem is with the outer or middle ear, as a result of infection, fluid buildup, or structural problems, standard hearing aids might not be reliable or comfortable. Bone conduction hearing devices can be a more effective alternative in such scenarios as they steer clear of the problematic regions and transmit sound directly to the cochlea.

Bone Conduction Candidates

Situations where bone conduction devices are appropriate:

  • Sound waves are unable to travel through the outer or middle ear, resulting in conductive hearing loss.
  • Persistent ear infections or drainage problems, where conventional hearing aids could worsen the condition.
  • People with misshapen ear canals or missing outer ears, who may not be prospects for conventional devices.
  • A condition called unilateral deafness, where an individual experiences substantial or total hearing loss in one ear. These devices provide a non-invasive option that is often more comfortable, particularly for children and adults who have recurring ear problems.

Options that include implantable and non-implantable solutions:

There are two primary kinds of bone conduction hearing devices:

  • Non-implantable (worn externally): These are typically held in place with a headband, softband, or sticky pad. They are excellent for children, people trying out bone conduction for the first time, or people who are not prepared for surgery.
  • Implantable (surgically installed): These devices include a small implant under the skin that connects with an external sound processor. Long-term users typically find that they supply more robust and reliable results. Your audiologist or ENT specialist can help decide which option is appropriate based on your age, anatomy, and hearing goals.

Perks of Employing Bone Conduction Hearing Devices

  • Suitable for sensitive ears – does not necessitate insertion into the ear canal
  • Clear sound quality, even with persistent ear problems
  • Excellent for unique anatomy– helpful for people born without a full outer ear or with other structural differences
  • Improved communication– especially in school, work, or noisy settings

If you or your child struggles with hearing in one or both ears, particularly due to chronic infections or conductive problems, bone conduction hearing devices might be worth exploring.

Make an appointment with an audiologist today to get more 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.