Introduction to Bone Anchored Hearing Devices

Bone Anchored Hearing Devices (BAHA and Bonebridge) are innovative solutions designed to improve hearing for individuals with specific types of hearing loss. Unlike traditional hearing aids, these devices use bone conduction to transmit sound vibrations directly to the inner ear, bypassing the outer and middle ear.

What is BAHA?

BAHA, or Bone Anchored Hearing Aid, is a type of bone conduction hearing device that consists of a small titanium implant surgically placed into the skull bone behind the ear. The device works by converting sound into vibrations, which are transmitted through the skull bone to the inner ear.

The BAHA system is typically recommended for individuals with:

• Conductive hearing loss where sound cannot properly reach the inner ear due to blockages or abnormalities in the outer or middle ear.
• Single-sided deafness, where one ear has normal hearing and the other does not.
• Chronic ear infections or conditions that prevent the use of traditional hearing aids.

What is Bonebridge?

Bonebridge is a non-implantable bone conduction device that uses a magnet system to transmit sound vibrations to the skull. Unlike BAHA, Bonebridge does not require a permanent implant in the skull; instead, it involves an external sound processor and an internal magnet that are held together by magnetic attraction.

The Bonebridge system is beneficial for individuals with:

• Conductive or mixed hearing loss.
• Situations where an external device is preferred over a surgically implanted one.
• Conditions that make traditional hearing aids ineffective or uncomfortable.

How Do They Work?

BAHA: After the titanium implant is placed and allowed to heal, the external sound processor attaches to the implant. This processor captures sound, converts it into vibrations, and sends these vibrations through the implant to the inner ear.

Bonebridge: The external sound processor captures sound and converts it into vibrations. These vibrations are then transmitted through the skin to the internal magnet, which delivers the sound vibrations directly to the inner ear via bone conduction.

Benefits and Considerations

Benefits:

• Improved sound quality and hearing clarity.
• Suitable for individuals who cannot use traditional hearing aids.
• Less interference from background noise compared to conventional hearing aids.

Considerations:

• For BAHA, the need for surgical implantation and potential post-surgical care.
• For Bonebridge, regular maintenance of the external and internal components.
• Individual suitability based on specific hearing loss conditions.

Choosing the Right Device

Choosing between BAHA and Bonebridge depends on various factors, including the type of hearing loss, personal preferences, and medical advice. Consulting with an audiologist or ENT specialist can help determine the most suitable option based on your specific needs and lifestyle.

Both devices offer significant improvements in hearing ability and quality of life for those with appropriate hearing loss conditions. Exploring these options with a healthcare professional can provide valuable insights into which device aligns best with your hearing goals.