Patent ID: 7792586

Claim:
A device for implanting an electrode array into the body of a subject and removing a straightening member from within the electrode array, the device comprising: a housing having a proximal end and a distal end, wherein the distal end is configured to receive at least a portion of the electrode array; an electrode array positioning member positioned at least partially within the housing and movable from a first position to a second position relative to the housing to effect movement of the electrode array from a first position wherein a length of the electrode array is housed within the housing, to a second position wherein a substantial length of the electrode array extends from the distal end of the housing; a capture member positioned at least partially within the housing and configured to engage at least a portion of the straightening member and to restrict said straightening member from moving with the electrode array as the electrode array is moved from its first to its second position by the electrode array positioning member; and a slide member, positioned at least partially within the housing and connected to the capture member, movable in a direction towards the proximal end of the housing to withdraw the straightening member from the electrode array.