1) Sound Processor: The sound processor, which sits behind the ear, picks up sound through a microphone. The sound is amplified and converted into sound vibrations.
2) Abutment: The abutment, or connector, links the sound processor and a titanium implant, transferring the sound vibrations from the sound processor to the implant.
3) Titanium Implant: The titanium implant is a small fixture
surgically placed behind the ear in an outpatient procedure. It naturally fuses
with bone and transfers sound vibrations to the inner ear.
Where is the BAHA placed on my child with microtia?
The BAHA is placed behind the ear as close to the ear as possible without actually touching the ear. If there is any contact, there may be sound interference.
How does a Bone - Anchored Hearing Aid ( BAHA ) work on children with microtia?
1) Bone, like air, conducts sound. Conventional hearing aids rely on air conduction to send sound from the outer ear, through the middle ear, and to the inner ear.
2) The BAHA system bypasses the outer and middle ear using bone conduction to send sound to the functioning inner ear. So, even with the ear affected with microtia, the BAHA system can send sound vibrations directly through bone to the inner ear (cochlea).
3) Once sound reaches the inner ear, the sound vibrations are converted into electrical impulses by tiny hair cells inside the cochlea.
4) These impulses travel to the brain, allowing the child with microtia to perceive sound naturally.
BAHA Patient Profile 1
BAHA Patient Profile 2
BP100 processor instructional videos
Attaching the BP100
Removing the BP100 processor
Starting the BP100 processor
Programming the BP100 processor
Adjusting the volume on the BP100 processor
Changing the battery on the BP100 processor
6 surgical options for hearing correction
MICROTIA QUESTION & ANSWER
"Dr. Bonilla, my son is 1 month old and he has bilateral microtia. I am very confused as to what my next step is. I’ve been told that there is not much to do for now. Is that accurate?"
1) Bone, like air, conducts sound. Conventional hearing aids rely on air conduction to send sound from the outer ear, through the middle ear, and to the inner ear.
