A device used for inserting an electrode array into a cochlea of a subject. Particularly, the device is adapted for the insertion of electrode arrays having an elongate carrier member and a removable means extending through the carrier member. The device includes a handle, an elongate positioning member mounted to the handle, an actuator member movable relative to the elongate positioning member, and at least one anchor member connected to the actuator member and engageable with the removable means. On insertion of the electrode array into a subject's cochlea, the actuator member can be moved relative to the elongate positioning member to withdraw the removable means from the carrier member.