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Implantable Hearing Devices - Baha and Cochlear Implant

Baha

The bone anchored hearing aid (Baha) is a surgically placed auditory implant that is approved for conductive and mixed hearing losses and single-sided deafness. The Baha uses bone conduction as the pathway to transmit sounds. Bone conduction bypasses the outer and middle ear. For some people, this is a better mode of transmission than normal air conduction. A small titanium abutment is surgically implanted behind the ear. A processor or oscillator snaps onto the abutment and transmits the sound to the inner ear (cochlea) by vibrating the bones in the skull.

Cochlear Implants

Cochlear implants are devices that are appropriate for individuals with severe and profound hearing losses. These devices can be used on individuals of all ages when wearable hearing aids do not improve hearing. An electronic device is surgically implanted in the inner ear and activated by a device worn outside the ear. The device bypasses damaged parts of the inner ear (cochlea) and directly stimulates the auditory nerve.

UCSF has a cochlear implant division that features state of the art devices and programming.

You may find more information about cochlear implants and the Baha at the following Web sites:

Bone Anchored Implants, Cochlear

Cochlear Implants, Boston Scientific

Implants, Medel

Reviewed by health care specialists at UCSF Medical Center.
Last updated July 11, 2007

This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace the advice of your doctor or health care provider. We encourage you to discuss with your doctor any questions or concerns you may have.