Bone Conductive Hearing Aids (BCHAs) come in a wide variety of shapes and sizes but all are designed to achieve the same goal. To pick up sound, convert that sound into a vibration and transmit that vibration to the small bones and cochlea of the middle and inner ear.
All of these devices will have an external component that will be worn against the head, but can be removed when not required. Yet some, more advanced devices, will also have an internal component that has been implanted and fixed to the skull. This part is permanent and can not be removed by the user.
External Hearing Devices
Softband – the softband is likely to be the first hearing device a child with microtia is going to try. The external processor picks up sound and converts it in to a light vibration that will travel across the skin, through the skull, then on to the small bones of the middle ear and cochlea. It allows the child to experience hearing from their affected side. For children born with one sided conductive hearing loss, the device may not be offered until there is thought to be a significant need, whereas children born with both ear canals affected, the softband will be provided within the first year. More information on the Softband can be found on the Cochlear website (softband)
SoundArc – The SoundArc works in much the same way as the Softband but with the majority of the device being worn toward the back of the head, making it less eyecatching. This can be a more attractive option for older children who aren’t interested in having a surgical implant but enjoy the benefit of a hearing aid. More information on the Sound Arc can be found on the Cochlear Website
ADHEAR – The ADHEAR works in the same way again, but instead of being held on a band or plastic arc, it is held on to the skin directly behind the ear with a mild temporary adhesive sticker. This is arguably the most discreet of the non-surgical BCHAs but isn’t perfect for everybody. More information on the Sound Arc can be found on the MED-EL website
Implantable Hearing Devices
BAHA Connect (Cochlear)
OSIA (Cochlear)
Bonebridge (MED-EL)
Vibrant Soundbridge (MED-EL)
