In recent years, many hearing aid companies have come out with hearing aids that fit behind the ear connected to a thin tube that fits in the ear canal. This style of instrument is referred to by various names depending on the manufacturer as either a Receiver-in-the-Ear (RITE) or a Receiver-in-the-Canal (RIC). Examples include the Oticon Dual Connect XW and the Phonak Audeo Yes IX (click here for illustrations).

The way these devices work is by having the components of the hearing instrument separated, where the microphone and digital components fit behind the ear, and the speaker or receiver of the instrument fits inside the ear canal. This style has been shown to provide patients with a better sound quality, since the ear canal is not as occluded, or plugged up as in other hearing instrument fittings. In addition, the patient has the benefits of a behind-the-ear instrument (increased durability, easier care and maintenance, better sound quality) while still having the benefits of a cosmetically appealing hearing instrument.

These instruments are not for everyone, since persons with a greater severity of hearing loss may not be able to use them as effectively as people with other degrees of hearing loss. This determination will be made by your audiologist during your hearing aid evaluation, where the best hearing solution will be found for your individual needs.