9: Hearing Aids and Implantable Bone Conduction Devices

Aural rehabilitation can improve quality of life for people of all ages. Devices including hearing aids, implantable hearing aids, bone-anchored hearing aids, cochlear implants, and auditory brainstem implants are some technological advancements in the otologist’s/neurotologist’s toolbox. Each device has its own set of advantages and limitations, indications and contraindications. Ultimately, the correct device choice for the patient comes down to a team decision, comprised of, but not limited to, the patient, family, audiologist, speech language pathologist, and otologist/neurotologist.