The Baha® system is a bone anchored hearing aid. It vibrates the skull bone, which in turn produces fluid pressure waves within the cochlea of the inner ear. Once the cochlea is stimulated in this way, the hearing nerve is activated and sound information is transmitted to the brain. Whereas, the normal hearing mechanism utilizes the ear drum and ear bones to transmit sound pressure waves into the inner ear, the Baha® system uses bone conduction as described above.
           

The Baha® system is indicated for use in individuals who have bilateral conductive hearing loss (meaning in ability to conduct sound properly down to the inner ear in both ears). It is also indicated in individuals who have unilateral sensorineural deafness (meaning a nonfunctional ear on one side). In a person with single-sided deafness, the Baha® is placed on the deaf side and transmits sound through vibrations of the skull to the better hearing ear on the opposite side.

The Baha® system is usually placed as part of a minor surgical procedure. A titanium screw is inserted into the temporal bone behind the ear, typically in the region of the mastoid. Once the screw fixates to the surrounding bone (osteointegrates), the external processor, which processes auditory waves into vibrations, can be attached. The external portion of the device can be removed when swimming or showering. The procedure is typically tolerated very well, but does require continued maintenance and care of the surgical site.

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