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Bone anchored hearing aids in children: an update
Jayesh Doshi1, Patrick Sheehan, Ann Louise McDermott
1New Cross Hospital, Wolverhampton, UK. jayeshdoshi@hotmail.com
Insights
Advancements in bone anchored hearing devices (BAHDs) offer improved surgical techniques and new systems for children. Newer percutaneous devices and alternative non-skin-penetrating options show promising results for pediatric hearing loss.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Biomedical Engineering
- Pediatric Audiology
Background:
- Bone anchored hearing devices (BAHDs) are increasingly utilized for pediatric hearing loss.
- Surgical techniques and device technology for BAHDs are continuously evolving.
- A need exists to review current trends and alternatives in pediatric BAHD surgery.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent trends in pediatric bone anchored hearing device (BAHD) surgery.
- To discuss modifications in surgical techniques and device advancements.
- To explore alternative treatment options for pediatric hearing loss.
Main Methods:
- A comprehensive literature search was conducted in May 2011.
- Databases searched included Medline, Pubmed, Cochrane library, and Embase.
- Relevant English-language papers on pediatric BAHD surgery were identified and reviewed.
Main Results:
- New bone conduction hearing systems have been introduced, including Ponto, Alpha 1 (M), Soundbite, and Vibrant Soundbridge.
- Modifications to existing BAHD systems allow for earlier sound processor loading.
- Latest percutaneous devices aim to minimize skin complications and enhance osseointegration.
Conclusions:
- Modern percutaneous BAHDs are designed for better osseointegration and reduced skin issues.
- Earlier loading of sound processors is a significant advancement in BAHD practice.
- Alternative non-skin-penetrating devices demonstrate positive outcomes in pediatric patients.
Objective:
Over recent years, there have been a significant number of publications reporting evolving bone anchored hearing device (BAHD) indications and modifications in surgical techniques. We aim to present a review of recent trends in paediatric BAHD surgery and also discuss alternative treatment options available.
Methods:
All papers referring to paediatric BAHD surgery (English language) were identified from Medline, Pubmed, Cochrane library and Embase search in May 2011. Abstracts were read and relevant papers were obtained.
Results:
BAHDs have evolved over recent years as technology has advanced. New bone conduction hearing devices have recently been launched such as the Ponto system [Oticon™], Alpha 1 (M) hearing system [Sophono], Soundbite system [Sonitus] and the Vibrant Soundbridge system [Medel]. Modifications to existing implant systems have significantly altered BAHD practice with earlier loading of the sound processor now a positive step forward.
Conclusions:
The latest generation of percutanous devices have been designed to reduce skin complications, promote better osseointegration and earlier loading of the sound processor. Alternative devices without a skin-penetrating abutment are now available and have shown promising results in the paediatric population.
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