Modern Advances in Bone Conduction-Hearing Devices

Purpose of Review This review summarizes the options available for bone conduction-hearing devices for patients with conductive or mixed hearing loss and single-sided deafness. We address patient candidacy and review the benefits and disadvantages of currently available technology. Recent Findings Percutaneous osseointegrated devices provide the most efficient sound conduction and best hearing fidelity at the cost of skin inflammation in some patients. Transcutaneous devices obviate these skin issues at the expense of loss of sound fidelity due to attenuation of sound across the skin and soft tissue. Active transcutaneous devices place a microphone externally with the actuator internally against the bone to improve sound conduction. Bone conduction-hearing devices provide excellent options for patients with conductive or mixed hearing loss or single-sided deafness. Choice of device depends on audiometric criteria and patient preference. Clinicians must be aware of the advantages and disadvantages of these devices to properly counsel patients.