Fitting, ongoing care and support for bone conduction implants

Once the wound from surgery has healed, the sound processor can be fitted and programmed for your child. 

For those children who have been fitted with an abutment, the sound processor cannot be fitted until new bone has formed around the screw and is holding it firmly. This may take 3 to 6 months.

Fitting

At the fitting appointment the audiologist will programme your child’s sound processor to match their hearing and carry out tests to check what your child is hearing with the device(s) in place. 

This may be the same processor your child was using on a soft headband, or it may be a different one. If the model of processor has changed then you should receive new written information on its use. 

Follow-up appointments

Your child will have regular follow-up tests so that any changes to the sound processor programming can be made as your child develops and to ensure they continue to get the best sound quality from them. Copies of results should be sent to you, your GP and local services within 3 weeks of any tests or assessments.

Ongoing care and support

The implant team will be there to support you and answer any questions you have. They should provide clear written instructions on:

• how to fit and use the bone conduction implant
• how to keep the implant site clean
• how to care for the equipment
• how to replace the batteries and get new ones

You should also receive a copy of the manufacturer’s user handbook and safety guidelines.

If your local services have not already supported a child with a bone conduction implant, then the implant centre will provide training and information to local professionals so they know how to look after your child and the equipment when necessary (for example, when your child is at school).

It’s also a good idea to keep your own notes on your child's progress and bring up any concerns with the implant team during appointments. Our app for parents, My NDCS, has a notes feature you could use for this.

As your child gets older, they’ll need to learn how to care for their implant, including when to contact the implant centre for adjustments, repairs or advice.

Communication 

Having an alternative method of communication, such as sign language, can be helpful in situations when your child cannot wear their sound processor, like during bathtime or if the sound processor is faulty.

It's important to remember that no hearing technology can replace typical hearing. To help your child hear clearly, keep the environment as quiet as possible. Reduce background noise and make sure the sound processor fits comfortably and securely so that your child can wear it consistently throughout the day.

Creating good listening conditions at home.