Magnetic safety module and methodology to avoid trauma during cochlear implant insertions

A method of inserting a cochlear implant electrode comprising an electrode lead and an electrode array into a cochlea of a subject, the method comprising:

• fastening a first magnet to the electrode lead;
• coupling, via magnetic attraction, a second magnet to the first magnet;
• applying an insertion force to the second magnet so as to cause the electrode lead to advance into the cochlea,
• wherein the magnetic attraction between the first and the second magnets defines an insertion force threshold which if exceeded by the insertion force causes the first and second magnets to release, preventing the insertion force from causing further insertion of the cochlear implant electrode into the cochlea.