An elongate hollow device for providing direct access to the cochlea of a recipient. The device has a symmetrical shape about a longitudinal axis through the center of the device, and comprises a first end having an aperture with its geometric center positioned at the longitudinal axis, and a distal end having an aperture with its geometric center positioned at the longitudinal axis, wherein the access device is configured to be at least partially positioned in the mastoid bone of the recipient such that the first end is positioned adjacent the surface of the mastoid bone, and the distal end is inserted into the cochlea.
