[MALKS: specifications and development]

Abstract

Purpose: To describe the characteristics of a new artificial anterior chamber (MALKS, Loktal, São Paulo, Brazil).

Methods: Characteristics analysis and description of a new artificial anterior chamber MALKS (Micro automated lamellar keratoplasty system).

Results: MALKS is composed of eight parts: a) artificial chamber; b) cornea's fix ring; c) nut to join the cornea's fix ring; d) rail and adjuster of lamellar diameter; e) flatteners, to pre-determine lamellar diameter; f) infusion system, that allows the digital objective peroperative control of the intracameral pressure; g) automated microkeratome, and h) marker.

Conclusion: MALKS uses the same automated microkeratome developed for LASIK, can allow corneal lamella obtention with predetermined thickness and diameter, as well as the digital objective peroperative control of the intracameral pressure. This new artificial anterior chamber can be an important tool for superficial and endothelial keratoplasty.