FIG 1. Schematic representation of a HiFocus I (Clarion CII Bionic ear) electrode array, which is inserted into the scala tympani via a cochleostomy near the round window niche (RW). The electrode array has a reference electrode (R) and 16 equidistantly spaced contacts (black lines), numbered from the tip of the electrode array to the basal end, which are facing the modiolus (M). They are positioned on a silastic carrier (gray) and are separated by silastic blebs (white lines). The oval window (OW) and outer wall of the cochlea (outer wall) are indicated.