Non-implantable bone conduction device for hearing loss: a systematic review.

Area of Science:

• Audiology
• Otorhinolaryngology
• Biomedical Engineering

Background:

• Conductive Hearing Loss (CHL) often results from middle ear diseases, impacting the hearing mechanism.
• Bone Conduction Devices (BCDs) offer treatment options, including implantable and non-implantable types.
• Non-implantable BCDs are often preferred due to less invasiveness and fewer anatomical restrictions.

Approach:

• A systematic review was conducted to identify clinical studies on non-invasive BCDs.
• Qualitative analysis of data from 12 selected studies (11 prospective, 1 retrospective) involving 173 patients (ages 4-77).
• Studies evaluated adhesive devices, head-supported sound processors, and compared them with implants and different processor types.

Key Points:

• Non-implantable BCDs were analyzed for Conductive Hearing Loss (CHL), sensorineural hearing loss, and single-side deafness.
• Studies included both adult and pediatric populations.
• Various non-invasive BCD configurations were assessed, including adhesive and head-supported devices.

Conclusions:

• Non-invasive BCDs demonstrated significant audiological and subjective advantages in both adult and pediatric patients.
• These devices are considered safe and effective for treating CHL, sensorineural hearing loss, and single-side deafness.
• Further research is recommended to validate these promising findings.