Insertion tool for placement of a flexible silicone mold or positioner within a cochlea

An insertion tool (150) for inserting a flexible elongate member into a human cochlea, the flexible member having a longitudinal channel or opening therein, the insertion tool comprising:

• a main body portion (151) having a guiding tube (160), the guiding tube having a distal barrel portion (162) with a cut away section that forms a half cylinder, defining a channel;
• a pushing tube (152) slidably engaged within the main body portion, wherein a distal end of the pushing tube resides within the channel formed by the half cylinder barrel portion, and further wherein the pushing tube retracts and extends within the main body portion;
• and
• a stylet (154) slidably inserted into the pushing tube and having a retracted position and an extended position;
• wherein the insertion tool is configured so that the proximal end of an electrode array or positioner that is threaded onto the stylet is contacted by a distal end of the pushing tube and so that the electrode array or positioner is pushed into position within the cochlea while being guided by the guiding tube.