What Are Implantable Hearing Devices and How Do They Work?

For individuals with certain types of hearing loss, traditional hearing aids may not always be the best solution. That’s where implantable hearing devices come in. These advanced medical devices are surgically placed to help bypass damaged parts of the ear and deliver clearer, more natural sound. But what exactly are implantable hearing devices, and how do they work?

Let’s explore how this remarkable technology is changing lives, and how Vibrant Hearing can help you decide if it’s the right option for you.

What Is an Implantable Hearing Device?

An implantable hearing device is a surgically implanted medical device designed to treat moderate to profound hearing loss. Unlike traditional hearing aids, which amplify sound and send it through the ear canal, implantable devices work by directly stimulating parts of the auditory system to transmit sound signals.

These devices are especially beneficial for individuals who:

• Don’t benefit from traditional hearing aids
• Have chronic ear infections or outer ear problems
• Have conductive or mixed hearing loss
• Require a more stable, discreet solution

Types of Implantable Hearing Devices

There are a few different types of implantable hearing devices, each designed for specific types of hearing loss.

Cochlear Implants

Cochlear implants are ideal for individuals with severe to profound sensorineural hearing loss who receive little to no benefit from traditional hearing aids. The device bypasses damaged hair cells in the inner ear and sends electrical signals directly to the auditory nerve.

Here’s how it works:

• An external processor captures sound and converts it into digital signals.
• A transmitter sends these signals to the implant under the skin.
• The implant stimulates the auditory nerve, which sends sound signals to the brain.

Bone-Anchored Hearing Systems (BAHS)

Bone-anchored hearing devices are designed for people with conductive hearing loss or single-sided deafness. These devices use bone conduction to transmit sound directly to the inner ear.

Here’s how it works:

• A small titanium post is surgically implanted in the skull bone.
• A sound processor attaches to the post and converts sound into vibrations.
• These vibrations travel through the skull to the inner ear, bypassing the outer and middle ear.

3. Middle Ear Implants

Middle ear implants are suitable for individuals with moderate to severe sensorineural hearing loss who struggle with feedback or discomfort from traditional hearing aids.

Here’s how it works:

• A processor captures and transmits sound to an implant attached to the bones in the middle ear.
• The implant vibrates these bones directly, helping transmit sound more efficiently to the inner ear.

Benefits of Implantable Hearing Devices

Implantable hearing devices offer several advantages over traditional hearing aids:

• Improved sound clarity – Bypass damaged parts of the ear for more accurate sound transmission.
• Discreet design – Many devices are less visible or completely hidden.
• Stability and durability – Implantable hearing devices are designed to stay in place and function reliably.
• Better performance in noisy environments – They are especially helpful for people who struggle with background noise.

Are You a Candidate for an Implantable Hearing Device?

Not everyone is a candidate for implantable hearing devices, so it’s important to undergo a comprehensive hearing evaluation. At Vibrant Hearing, our specialists will assess your hearing health, medical history, and lifestyle to determine if implantable technology is right for you.

We’ll work closely with your ENT or surgeon to coordinate care and ensure the best possible outcomes. Whether you’re considering a cochlear implant, bone-anchored device, or middle ear implant, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

Discover If Implantable Hearing Technology Is Right for You

If you’re struggling with your current hearing aids or have been told they won’t work for your type of hearing loss, it may be time to explore implantable options. Vibrant Hearing offers expert hearing evaluations and works with top medical professionals to help patients access the most advanced hearing solutions available. Contact us today to get started.