Abstract: An electrode system is provided for insertion into an ossified cochlea. The electrode system includes a first electrode array and a second electrode array, both of which are electrically connected to a suitable implantable cochlear stimulator (ICS). Each of the two electrode arrays has a plurality of spaced-apart electrode contacts along one side or surface thereof, e.g., eight to twelve electrode contacts on the first electrode array, and six to ten electrode contacts on the second electrode array. A tunnel is drilled through the ossified portion of the cochlea into which the first electrode array is snugly inserted. The second electrode array is inserted into the cochlea near the second turn thereof. Where the cochlea is fully ossified, a second tunnel is drilled through the ossified portion at the second turn. A positioner may be used with the second electrode array in order to position its electrode contacts against the modiolar wall of the cochlea.

Abstract: An electrode array suitable for insertion into the cochlea has a drug delivery channel therein. In a preferred embodiment, electrical stimuli may be applied near the modiolar wall of the cochlea via spaced-apart electrode contacts embedded along a front edge of a flexible carrier, which flexible carrier comprises the body of the electrode array. The front edge, and hence the electrode contacts, may be held against the modiolar wall by a flexible positioner placed on the back side of the flexible carrier. Drugs may be delivered deep into the cochlea through the drug delivery channel that passes longitudinally through the center of the flexible carrier. In an alternative embodiment, the drug delivery channel may be included within the positioner.