#$%^&*AU2013200247A820130221.pdf#####ABSTRACT A cochlear implant electrode comprising: an extra-cochlear electrode lead containing a plurality of electrode wires for carrying electrical stimulation signals from an implant housing to a cochleostomy opening; an intra-cochlear electrode array containing the plurality of electrode wires and passing from the cochleostomy opening into a cochlea scala and terminating in a plurality of electrode contacts for applying the electrical stimulation signals to target neural tissue; and an impact reinforcement element around a portion of the electrode lead for resisting effects of an external impact. 4005499 1 (GHMaters) P87558.AU.1 17/01/20132/5 (0 C) co~ C) LO C) UIC)C C) C)C ,'I C)C C)C coC CC CC cvco