Implantable hearing solutions
Hearing loss is a common issue affecting millions of people worldwide. For those who do not benefit from traditional hearing aids, there are now several options for surgically implantable hearing solutions that can greatly improve their quality of life.
Bone conduction systems such as the Bonebridge
The Bonebridge system is an implantable bone conduction hearing device that helps to improve hearing for individuals with conductive or mixed hearing loss and single-sided deafness. The Bonebridge system consists of an internal implant surgically placed under the skin behind the ear and an external audio processor worn on the head. The audio processor picks up sound vibrations and sends them to the internal implant, which then directly stimulates the bone of the skull to transmit sound to the inner ear. This bypasses any outer or middle ear issues and allows individuals to hear more clearly.
Active middle ear implants
Another option for implantable hearing solutions is the Vibrant Soundbridge, an active middle ear implant designed to treat sensorineural and mixed hearing loss.
The Vibrant Soundbridge consists of an internal implant surgically placed in the middle ear and an external audio processor worn behind the ear. The audio processor picks up sound vibrations and sends them to the internal implant, which then directly stimulates the hearing bones in the middle ear to transmit sound to the inner ear. This can be a good option for individuals who do not benefit from traditional hearing aids or who have issues with the middle or outer ear that prevent them from wearing hearing aids.
The Bone Anchored Hearing Aid
The Bone Anchored Hearing Aid (BAHA) is another implantable hearing solution commonly used to treat conductive or mixed hearing loss. The BAHA consists of a small titanium implant surgically placed in the bone behind the ear and an external sound processor worn on the implant. The sound processor picks up sound vibrations and sends them to the implant, directly stimulating the bones of the middle ear to transmit sound to the inner ear. This can help individuals with conductive hearing loss to hear more clearly by bypassing any issues with the middle ear.
Cochlear implants
Cochlear implants are another implantable hearing solution that can treat severe to profound sensorineural hearing loss. Cochlear implants consist of an internal implant surgically placed in the cochlea and an external sound processor worn behind the ear. The sound processor picks up sound vibrations and sends them to the internal implant, which directly stimulates the auditory nerve to transmit sound signals to the brain. Cochlear implants can significantly improve hearing for individuals with severe hearing loss who do not benefit from traditional hearing aids.
Implantable hearing solutions, an alternative
Implantable hearing solutions can be an excellent option for individuals who do not benefit from traditional hearing aids or have outer or middle ear issues. An example is the recurrence of ear canal infections aggravated by the usage of conventional
hearing aids.
These implantable devices can significantly improve hearing and quality of life for individuals with hearing loss. However, it is essential to consult with a hearing healthcare professional to determine the best solution for each individual’s specific needs and to ensure that the implantation process is done safely and effectively.
If you have hearing loss and a hearing aid is prescribed, it is always worthwhile to enquire about the possibility of an implantable hearing solution as an alternative.
A word of caution
One must be aware that these implantable solutions are relatively new and that many audiologists may not have up-to-date knowledge. Selection tools are available, which are computerised-based programs that help select candidates. Make sure to ask your audiologist.
Furthermore, note that many different implantable hearing solutions are available. It is, therefore, vital to enquire about the published results, reliability and how long a product has been on the market before selecting a device.
Click on the logo above to visit the CHI website for more information on Implantable Hearing Solutions