Abstract: An exemplary method of inserting a peri-straight electrode array into a cochlea of a recipient includes positioning the peri-straight electrode array and an insertion tool within the recipient such that a distal end of the insertion tool is provided within the recipient at a location that is outside and not touching the cochlea of the recipient, and a straight distal portion of the peri-straight electrode array extends away from the distal end of the insertion tool and into the cochlea. The exemplary method further includes manually interacting with the insertion tool to advance the straight distal portion and at least some of a pre-curved proximal portion into the cochlea without allowing the insertion tool to enter or come in contact with the cochlea, and removing the insertion tool from the recipient such that the peri-straight electrode array remains within the cochlea after the insertion tool is removed from the recipient.