Mini asymmetric radial keratotomy

Mini Asymmetric Radial Keratotomy (M.A.R.K.) is a surgical procedure to cure keratoconus and correct astigmatism, developed by Italian surgeon Marco Abbondanza in 1994, then improved in 2005.

Procedure

It consists of a series of microincisions, from 1.75 to 2.25 millimeters, always made with a diamond knife, designed to cause a controlled scarring of the cornea, which changes its thickness and shape. The M.A.R.K. is performed only in the area where the keratoconus is localized, therefore both the flattening and the structural reinforcement of scar tissue occur only locally in the distorted zone, avoiding an excessive flattening of the cornea. This procedure, if done properly, is able to cure the astigmatism and the first and second stages of the keratoconus, avoiding the need for a cornea transplant.

The Mini Asymmetric Radial Keratotomy can also be used in combination with the cross-linking (also known as CXL, CCR, CCL and KXL), parasurgical treatment for keratoconus.

References

it:Mini cheratotomia radiale asimmetrica