Bone Conduction: Benefits and Limitations of Surgical and Nonsurgical Devices

Bone conduction devices (BCDs) are a well-established and effective treatment solution for children with conductive and mixed hearing loss. Evidence indicates that early intervention through BCDs can improve hearing, speech, and language, and developmental outcomes. BCDs overcome several limitations associated with traditional hearing aids, and in many cases offer children an alternative to more invasive surgical management. Despite these benefits, children with conductive hearing loss are often subject to delays in intervention. In addition, interventional challenges and technological limitations of BCDs prevent widespread adoption and acceptance, particularly in early childhood.