What is a bone conduction hearing device?
A bone anchored hearing device is a sound processor that picks up signals in the air and transfers them to vibrations that travels to your cochlea through bones in your head. The sound processor attaches to a small titanium implant and abutment which is surgically implanted by your doctor. Bone anchored devices can also be used on metal head bands or elastic soft bands. Approximately 8000 people receive a bone conduction hearing device each year in the US alone, however awareness about these products is still low compared to hearing aid or cochlear implants.
Who can use a bone conduction hearing device?
Simply put, a bone conduction hearing device is sometimes a solution for people who cannot be helped by traditional hearing aids. Conductive hearing losses which are too great for traditional devices and medical conditions, reoccurring ear infections or absent ear canals (atresia) are common conditions where bone conduction hearing devices may be a good solution. Also, in the cases of severe to profound unilateral hearing loss, also known as Single Sided Deafness (SSD) a bone conduction device can be used to send auditory signals from the hearing impaired side of the head to the contralateral cochlear via bone conduction.
Using a bone conduction device with a soft band
Meet everyday challenges Ponto sound processors can be worn on a comfortable, head-worn Ponto soft band. This solution will improve you or your child’s ability to meet most everyday challenges and to acquire a hearing solution that supports them in developing language.