Steps to Getting a Direct Bone Conduction System

Getting a direct bone conduction system is easier than you think

The process of getting a direct bone conduction system will start with your audiologist or hearing healthcare professional giving you a screening test to determine if you may benefit. If initial tests suggest you may benefit, you will be referred to an audiologist and surgeon who are trained in direct bone conduction systems. During the meeting, your hearing loss will be evaluated, and if you are a good candidate, the specialist will describe the implant procedure and answer any questions you may have. At this stage you will also have the opportunity to try a direct bone conduction system using an external test band or rod before proceeding with surgery.

 After you and your hearing healthcare professional decide that it is right for you, you can expect to go through the following steps to become a successful direct bone conduction system user:

1. Implant procedure
The implant surgery is an outpatient procedure. The procedure is typically done under general anesthesia (but may be done under local depending on your surgeon’s preference) and usually lasts less than one hour. Most recipients are able to return to normal activities within a few days. Your surgeon will prepare a small area behind your ear for placement of the titanium implant into the bone. The exact placement of the implant varies depending on each patient’s physical traits. Once completed, an implant with an abutment will be inserted into the bone.

2. Healing after surgery
After the dressing is removed, you will receive a special brush and specific instructions for keeping the area clean. The implant needs time to merge or integrate (referred to as osseointegration) with the bone before the sound processor can be attached. Your surgeon will give you an estimate of how long this will take.

3. Fitting
After the implant has integrated with the bone, you will go to your hearing healthcare professional to get your sound processor fitted. Your hearing healthcare professional will adjust the sound settings to fit your personal requirements.

Find a hearing specialist in your area to learn more about direct bone conduction systems and the steps to getting a direct bone conduction system.

The information contained on this website is for informational purposes and is not intended to replace medical advice. Please consult a hearing healthcare professional.