Patent ID: 8630721

Claim:
A method of inserting into a patient an electrode array of a cochlear implant system, the method comprising: providing an electrode array having a flexible elongate carrier; a plurality of electrode contacts supported by the carrier, wherein at least two of the contacts are aligned along a longitudinal axis of the carrier; a flexible collar disposed about at least a portion of the carrier; an anchor adjacent to the distal end of the collar, the anchor adapted to be sutured to tissue or bone to reduce longitudinal rotation of the array; a pressed fascia washer adapted to contact the anchor; and a rotation indicator on the array indicating the rotational orientation of the at least two contacts, wherein the rotation indicator is located proximal to the anchor; creating an opening anteroinferior to the round window membrane of the patient; inserting the electrode array into the cochlea such that a distal end of the array extends to the basal turn region; placing fascia in contact with at least a portion of the flexible collar; anchoring the array; and sealing the opening.