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'''Mario Romano''' (Napoli, 03 luglio 1978) è un medico-chirurgo, oftalmologo, noto per le sue ricerche scientifiche e per l’attività assistenziale che svolge nell’ambito delle patologie vitreo-retiniche. Insegna in qualità di Professore Ordinario di Oftalmologia presso Humanitas University, Milano e ricopre direttore del Dipartimento di Oftalmologia presso Humanitas Gavazzeni-Castelli, Bergamo. Il Prof Romano è attualmente direttore scientifico presso European school for advanced studies in ophthalmology (ESASO), Lugano CH.<ref>[https://www.hunimed.eu/it/member/mario-romano/ Mario Romano - Hunimed]</ref>
[[it:Mario_Romano]]'''Mario Romano''' (Naples, July 3, 1978) is a surgeon and ophthalmologist, known for his scientific research and his clinical work in vitreoretinal diseases. He teaches as a Full Professor of Ophthalmology and serves as the Director of the Ophthalmology residency program at Humanitas University, Milan<ref>[https://www.hunimed.eu/it/member/mario-romano/ Mario Romano - Hunimed]</ref>, as well as the Head of the Department of Ophthalmology at Humanitas Gavazzeni-Castelli, Bergamo<ref>[https://www.clinicacastelli.it/medici/mario-romano/ Prof. Mario Romano - Humanitas Castelli]</ref>. Prof. Romano is currently the Scientific Director at the European School for Advanced Studies in Ophthalmology (ESASO), Lugano, Switzerland<ref>[https://esaso.org/team/romano_mario/ ROMANO Mario - ESASO]</ref>.


== Giovinezza e formazione ==
{| class="wikitable" style="float:right ;border:solid 1px #a2a9b1; background-color: #f8f9fa" cellpadding="5"
Conseguito il diploma di liceo classico con pieni voti, si laurea con lode nel 2002 presso l’Università di Napoli.
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| [[File:Mario_Romano_2024.jpg|center|200px|'''Mario Romano'''|link=https://topitalianscientists.org/tis/52931/Mario_Romano_-_Top_Italian_Scientist_in_Clinical_Sciences]]
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| '''Nationality'''
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| Italian
|-
| '''Honors'''
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| Knight of the Order of Merit of the Italian Republic
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| [[File:Mario Romano Onorificenza.jpg|center|100px]]
|-
| '''Education'''
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| Degree with honors from the University of Naples (100/110 with honors) 
|-
| style="width:200px;" | Residency in Ophthalmology (50/50 with honors) 
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|  PhD in Pharmacology and Molecular Oncology at the University of Ferrara 
|-
| Fellowship in Retinal Diseases, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Harvard Medical School
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| Fellowship in Vitreoretinal Surgery, Royal Liverpool University Hospital
|-
| Master's in Leadership, Management, and Coordination of Healthcare Facilities
|-
| '''Fields'''
|-
| Ocular surgery with a primary interest in vitreoretinal diseases
|-
|  '''Activities'''
|-
|  Director of Ophthalmology Residency Program, Humanitas University, Milan
|-
|  Full Professor of Ophthalmology at Humanitas University, Milan 
|-
|  Director of the Ophthalmology Department at Humanitas Gavazzeni-Castelli, Bergamo
|-
|  Scientific Director at the European School for Advanced Studies in Ophthalmology (ESASO), Lugano, CH
|-
| '''Notes'''
|- 
| Top Italian Scientist in Clinical Sciences <ref name="TIS">[https://topitalianscientists.org/tis/52931/Mario_Romano_-_Top_Italian_Scientist_in_Clinical_Sciences Mario Romano - Top Italian Scientist in Clinical Sciences]</ref>
|}


Dopo aver conseguito la specializzazione in Oftalmologia (50/50 con lode) con la tesi dal titolo “Fattore di crescita dell’endotelio vascolare ed eritropoietina nella neo vascolarizzazione retinica”, continua la sua formazione specialistica in patologie vitreo-retiniche e modelli animali con una fellowship conseguita presso Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Harvard medical school nel 2005-06 sotto la supervisione del prof Donald D’Amico ed una fellowship in chirurgia vitreo-retinica presso la Royal Liverpool University nel 2008 sotto la supervisione del Prof David Wong
==Early Life and Education==
After graduating from high school with top honors, he earned his degree summa cum laude in 2002 from the University of Naples. Following his graduation from the Ophthalmology residency training (50/50 with honors) with a thesis titled “Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor and Erythropoietin in Retinal Neovascularization, he continued his specialized training in vitreoretinal diseases and animal models with a fellowship at the Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Harvard Medical School, in 2005-2006 under the supervision of Prof. Donald D’Amico. He also completed a fellowship in vitreoretinal surgery at Royal Liverpool University in 2008 under Prof. David Wong's guidance.


Nel 2010 consegue un dottorato in farmacologia ed Oncologia molecolare presso Università degli Studi di Ferrara con la tesi dal titolo: “Coagulation-balance gene predictors influencing visual prognosis in patients treated with photodynamic therapy for classic choroidal neovascularization secondary to age-related macular degeneration”
In 2010, he earned his PhD in Pharmacology and Molecular Oncology at the University of Ferrara with a thesis titled “Coagulation-Balance Gene Predictors Influencing Visual Prognosis in Patients Treated with Photodynamic Therapy for Classic Choroidal Neovascularization Secondary to Age-Related Macular Degeneration.”


Nel 2018 ottiene un Master di II livello in “Direzione, management e coordinamento delle strutture sanitarie, sociali e socio-assistenziali territoriali”
In 2018, he also obtained a second-level Master's degree in "Healthcare Management, Direction, and Coordination of Healthcare, Social and Social-Care Structures."


Consegue l’abilitazione di Professore nel Settore concorsuale 06/F2 SSD MED/30 per II Fascia nel 02/2015 e per I Fascia nel 07/2020.
Prof. Romano was habilitated as a Professor in the field of Ophthalmology (02/2015 for associate professorship, 07/2020 for full professorship).


== Pubblicazioni scientifiche ==
==Scientific Publications==
E’ autore di più di 250 pubblicazioni scientifiche internazionali, su peer-reviewed journals, a carattere traslazionale e clinico nell’ambito della cura delle patologie oculari<ref>[https://orcid.org/0000-0003-0348-0532 Mario Romano - ORCID]</ref><ref>[https://www.scopus.com/authid/detail.uri?authorId=35249070500 Mario Romano - Scopus]</ref><ref>[https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/?term=romano+mr&sort=date Mario Romano - PubMed]</ref>.
He is author of more than 300 international scientific publications in peer-reviewed journals, focusing on translational and clinical aspects of ocular diseases<ref>[https://orcid.org/0000-0003-0348-0532 Mario Romano - ORCID]</ref><ref>[https://www.scopus.com/authid/detail.uri?authorId=35249070500 Mario Romano - Scopus]</ref><ref>[https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/?term=romano+mr&sort=date Mario Romano - PubMed]</ref>.  
Prof. Romano was ranked by Expertscape (2013-2023) as the leading European expert and the second worldwide expert in vitreoretinal surgery.
(https://expertscape.com/ex/vitreoretinal+surgery/c/eur) e secondo maggior esperto al mondo (https://expertscape.com/ex/vitreoretinal+surgery)


== Brevetti ==
==Patents==
Inventore di tre brevetti depositati, nell’ambito della cura della patologie oculari:
He is the inventor of three patents in the field of ocular disease care:


* “Dispositivo di monitoraggio della postura di un paziente trattato mediante vitrectomia”. N° 0001400522, 24/10/2013
* "Posture Monitoring Device for Patients Treated with Vitrectomy" (No. 0001400522, 24/10/2013)
* "Vitrector" (No. 0001412237, 22/12/2014)
* "Adapter for Ophthalmoscope" (No. 102016000009992, 01/02/2016)


* “Vitrectomo”. N° 0001412237, 22/12/2014
==Teaching Positions==
Professor Romano is a faculty member at Humanitas University, where he lectures in Medicine and Surgery, contributes to the MedTech program, and serves as the Director of the Ophthalmology residency program.


* “Adattatore per oftalmoscopio”. N° 102016000009992, 01/02/2016
He is also the Director of the second-level annual Master's program in Vitreoretinal Surgery. Additionally, he developed the digital platform ELOS (e-learning ocular surgery), donated to ESASO during the pandemic, where he now serves as Scientific Director.


== Incarichi di insegnamento ==
* Humanitas University. Medicine and Surgery course, Head and Neck.
Il Professor Romano svolge la sua attività didattica presso Humanitas University, con insegnamento nel corso di laura di Medicina e Chirurgia e MedThech. Docente di ruolo presso la scuola di specializzazione in Oftalmologia dello stesso ateneo. Direttore del master annuale di II livello di chirugia vitreoretinica.


Ha inoltre sviluppato una piattaforma digitale per le patologie oculare ELOS (e-learning ocular surgery), donata poi, nel periodo pandemico, ad ESASO (European school of advanced study in Ophthalmology) una fondazione svizzera che si occupa della diffusione didattica nel mondo.
* Humanitas University. MedTech course, Head and Neck.


* Humanitas University. Docente del corso di laura in Medicina e Chirurgia, Head and Neck.
* Humanitas University. Director and lecturer of the Ophthalmology residency program.


* Humanitas University. Docente del corso di laura MedTech, Head and Neck.
* Humanitas University. PhD program in Data Science in Medicine & Nutrition.


* Humanitas University. Docente della Scuola di Specializzazione in Oftalmologia.
* Humanitas University. Director and lecturer of the Second-Level Master's in Vitreoretinal Surgery.


* Humanitas University. Docente del Dottorato in Datascience in Medicine & Nutrition.
* European School for Advanced Studies in Ophthalmology (ESASO), Lugano CH. Lecturer and Scientific Director.


* Humanitas University. Direttore e docente del Master Universitario di II livello in Chirurgia Viteroretinica.
* University of Naples Federico II. PhD program in Neurosciences.


* European school for advanced studies in ophthalmology (ESASO), Lugano CH. Docente e direttore scientifico.
* University of Naples Federico II. Second-Level Master's in Advanced Studies in Hemophilia and Thrombosis.


* Università Degli Studi di Napoli Federico II. Docente del Dottorato in Neuroscienze.
* University of Naples Federico II. Lecturer in the Integrated Course in Orthoptic Sciences and Ophthalmological Assistance: Clinical Pathophysiology of the Visual System.


* Università Degli Studi di Napoli Federico II. Docente del Master Universitario di II livello di Alta formazione in Emofilia e Trombosi.
* University of Naples Federico II. Lecturer in the Integrated Course in Orthoptic Sciences and Ophthalmological Assistance: Prevention Profile and Health Services.


* Università Degli Studi di Napoli Federico II. Docente del Corso Integrato Scienze Ortottiche e dell’Assistenza Oftalmologica: Fisiopatologia Clinica dell’Apparato Visivo.
* University of Naples Federico II. Lecturer in the Integrated Course in Orthoptic Sciences and Ophthalmological Assistance: Ophthalmological and Orthoptic Semiology.


* Università Degli Studi di Napoli Federico II. Docente del Corso Integrato Scienze Ortottiche e dell’Assistenza Oftalmologica: Profilo della Prevenzione e dei Servizi Sanitari.
* University of Naples Federico II. Lecturer in the Integrated Course in Ophthalmological Rehabilitation and Emergencies.


* Università Degli Studi di Napoli Federico II. Docente del Corso Integrato Scienze Ortottiche e dell’Assistenza Oftalmologica: Semeiotica Oftalmologica e Ortottica.
* University of Naples Federico II. Lecturer in the Integrated Course in Ophthalmological Rehabilitation and Techniques in Neuropsychiatric Rehabilitation.


* Università Degli Studi di Napoli Federico II. Docente del Corso Integrato Riabilitazione Oftalmologica ed Emergenze.
==Surgical Activity==
Prof. Romano primarily focuses his clinical practice on ocular surgery, with a special interest in complex vitreoretinal diseases. He performs highly complex surgeries on the posterior segment of the eye, including retinal detachment, macular hole, epiretinal membrane, brachytherapy, and proliferative diabetic retinopathy.


* Università Degli Studi di Napoli Federico II. Docente del Corso Integrato di Riabilitazione Oftalmologica e Tecniche di Riabilitazione Neuropsichiatriche.
==Areas of Clinical and Preclinical Research==
His main research areas include induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), Müller cells, digitization and virtual reality systems in ophthalmology, intraocular tamponades, toxicity of medical devices, ocular surgery machinery fluid dynamics, and retinal detachment.


== Attività chirurgica ==
===Induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs)===
Il prof Romano declina la sua attività assistenziale prevalentemente nella chirurgia oculare con prevalente interesse nelle patologie vitreo-retiniche. In particolare interventi ad alta complessità sul segmento posteriore dell’occhio: distacco di retina, foro maculare, membrana epiretinica, endorezione di tumori endoculari, brachiterapia, proliferazioni epiretiniche, retinopatia diabetica proliferante, distacchi di retina complicati da proliferazione vitreoretinica.
He works in a research group focused on reprogramming differentiated peripheral somatic cells into retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cells. The goal is to create a population of cells from the patient's own cells, capable of replacing damaged retinal cells. Currently, the group has already developed a polarized monolayer of retinal pigment epithelium cells (iPSCs-RPE) from peripheral fibroblasts, which is able to adhere to a hyaluronic acid matrix with anti-inflammatory properties.


== Aree di ricerca clinica e preclinica ==
===Müller Cells===
=== Induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) ===
In recent years, growing scientific evidence has highlighted the crucial role of Müller cells in the homeostasis and structural support of the retina, as well as their potential for cellular trans-differentiation. Prof. Romano is involved in studying the role of these cells in the pathogenesis of various retinal diseases and the effect of potential iatrogenic damage on the functional and anatomical outcomes of vitreoretinal surgery. These studies have enhanced the understanding of common retinal diseases and provided significant insights into optimizing their clinical and surgical management.
Nei nostri laboratori in Humanitas lavora alla riprogrammazione di cellule somatiche periferiche differenziate in cellule dell’epitelio pigmentato retinico. Lo scopo è creare una popolazione cellulare a partire dalle cellule dello stesso paziente, in grado di sostituire le cellule retiniche danneggiate.


=== Cellule del Muller ===
===Digitization and Immersive Virtual Visualization Systems in Ophthalmology===
Negli ultimi anni, una crescente evidenza scientifica ha sostenuto il ruolo cruciale delle cellule di Müller nell'omeostasi e nel supporto strutturale della retina. Sono stato principalmente coinvolto nello studio del ruolo di queste cellule nella patogenesi di una varietà di malattie della retina vitreoretinica e medica e l'effetto di un potenziale danno iatrogeno sui risultati funzionali e anatomici della chirurgia vitreoretinica. Questi studi hanno migliorato la comprensione delle comuni malattie della retina vitreoretinica e medica e hanno fornito informazioni significative per ottimizzare la loro gestione clinica e chirurgica. Ha contribuito all'ideazione e alla progettazione di queste ricerche.
Prof. Romano is engaged in various translational projects aimed at optimizing digital and virtual resources to support teaching and healthcare activities.


=== Tamponanti intraoculari ===
===Intraocular Tamponades===
Gli agenti di tamponamento liquido intraoculare ed i coloranti vitali sono dispositivi medici che svolgono un ruolo cruciale nella chirurgia vitreoretinica, in particolare nella gestione delle malattie vitreoretiniche più complesse. Tuttavia, questi composti sono stati associati a complicazioni oculari significative. Nonostante il loro ruolo cruciale, la nostra conoscenza delle loro proprietà e del loro comportamento nella chirurgia vitreoretinica è ancora limitata. Nell'ultimo decennio, ho collaborato con altri gruppi di ricercatori per caratterizzare questi composti in termini di risultati chimici, fisici, reologici e biologici, per ottimizzarne l'uso in chirurgia vitreoretinica e per valutare i meccanismi patogenetici delle complicanze legate al loro utilizzo. Questi studi hanno ampliato le conoscenze sulle proprietà degli agenti di tamponamento liquido intraoculare, fornendo al chirurgo vitreoretinico informazioni fondamentali per utilizzarli in modo più consapevole e sicuro. E’ stato principalmente coinvolto in queste ricerche, in particolare nella valutazione della rilevanza clinica e chirurgica dei risultati sperimentali.
Intraocular liquid tamponade agents and vital dyes are medical devices that play a crucial role in vitreoretinal surgery, especially in managing the most complex vitreoretinal diseases. However, these compounds have been associated with significant ocular complications. Despite their essential role, our knowledge of their properties and behavior in vitreoretinal surgery remains limited. Over the past decade, Prof. Romano has collaborated with other research groups to characterize these compounds in terms of their chemical, physical, rheological, and biological outcomes to optimize their use in vitreoretinal surgery and evaluate the pathogenic mechanisms of complications associated with their use. These studies have expanded the understanding of the properties of intraocular liquid tamponades, providing vitreoretinal surgeons with essential information to use them more safely and effectively. He has been primarily involved in these studies, particularly in assessing the clinical and surgical relevance of the experimental findings. Prof. Romano recently published an Evidence-Based Expert-Led Consensus on staging silicone oil-induced emulsification following intraocular use. [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37071921/](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37071921/)


=== Tossicità dei dispositivi medici ===
===Medical Device Toxicity===
L'appropriata valutazione della potenziale tossicità dei dispositivi medici intraoculari è un'esigenza primaria nella chirurgia vitreoretinica, in particolare alla luce delle recenti segnalazioni di casi di grave tossicità oculare acuta postoperatoria. Nonostante la sicurezza di questi dispositivi per l'uso previsto sia un presupposto indispensabile, sussistono ancora polemiche sulle norme normative vigenti. Recentemente, insieme ad un gruppo di ricerca specializzato, ha condotto diversi studi volti a valutare la biocompatibilità e la sicurezza dei dispositivi medici intraoculari attraverso la validazione dei metodi per la valutazione della citotossicità in vitro, la valutazione della potenziale citotossicità dei dispositivi medici disponibili in commercio e la caratterizzazione dei contaminanti/impurezze potenzialmente presenti in questi composti. Inoltre, ha studiato, per la prima volta, l'effetto dell'interazione di più dispositivi intraoculari in termini di citotossicità al fine di simulare uno scenario chirurgico reale e, quindi, ottenere risultati che possono essere meglio tradotti nella pratica chirurgica. Questi studi hanno fornito informazioni fondamentali sulla biocompatibilità dei dispositivi medici intraoculari attualmente utilizzati nella chirurgia vitreoretinica.
Proper evaluation of the potential toxicity of intraocular medical devices is a primary concern in vitreoretinal surgery, especially in light of recent reports of severe acute postoperative ocular toxicity cases. Although the safety of these devices for their intended use is an essential prerequisite, there remain controversies surrounding current regulatory standards. Recently, alongside a specialized research group, he conducted several studies aimed at evaluating the biocompatibility and safety of intraocular medical devices through the validation of methods for the assessment of in vitro cytotoxicity, evaluating the potential cytotoxicity of commercially available medical devices, and characterizing potential contaminants/impurities in these compounds. Additionally, he was the first to study the effect of the interaction of multiple intraocular devices in terms of cytotoxicity to simulate a real surgical scenario and obtain results that could be better translated into surgical practice. These studies provided key insights into the biocompatibility of currently used intraocular medical devices in vitreoretinal surgery. Prof. Romano coordinates a European working group aimed at monitoring and reducing PFAS production in ophthalmology, assessing the real medical necessity of using PFAS. PFAS, an acronym for "perfluorinated alkylated substances," are highly toxic substances capable of accumulating in the environment irreversibly and causing damage to the ozone layer.


=== Fluidica delle macchine utilizzate in chirurgia oculare ===
===Fluidics of Machines Used in Ocular Surgery===
La fluidica e, in particolare, la portata e l'accelerazione generate dai sistemi di vitrectomia, sono significativamente correlate con l'efficacia della rimozione del vitreo e della generazione di trazioni vitreoretiniche e, quindi, con la sicurezza e l'efficacia della vitrectomia stessa. Di recente ha condotto alcune ricerche rivolte alla valutazione e, potenzialmente, all'ottimizzazione delle prestazioni del sistema di vitrectomia. In ordine Questi studi hanno ampliato la nostra conoscenza della fluidica di alcuni dei sistemi di vitrectomia attualmente disponibili, fornendo informazioni importanti per scegliere la configurazione ottimale.
Fluidics, particularly the flow rate and acceleration generated by vitrectomy systems, are significantly related to the efficiency of vitreous removal and the generation of vitreoretinal traction, thus impacting the safety and efficacy of vitrectomy itself. In the last years, he has been working on the evaluating and the eventual optimization of the performance of vitrectomy systems. These studies have expanded the knowledge of the fluidics of some of the currently available vitrectomy systems, providing important information for selecting the optimal configuration.


=== Distacco di retina ===
===Retinal Detachment===
Il distacco retinico ragmatogeno primario è una condizione pericolosa per la vista con un'incidenza annuale che varia dallo 0,01% allo 0,02% nella popolazione generale. I progressi nelle macchine per vitrectomia e nei dispositivi medici intraoculari hanno permesso di migliorare la gestione chirurgica del distacco di retina e di ottimizzare i risultati anatomici e funzionali. A lungo coinvolto come ricercatore principale in studi clinici volti a ottimizzare la gestione chirurgica dei distacchi retinici regmatogeni primari. Questi studi hanno fornito prove importanti per quanto riguarda l'efficacia e la sicurezza di diversi sistemi, tecniche e dispositivi medici.
Primary rhegmatogenous retinal detachment is a vision-threatening condition with an annual incidence ranging from 0.01% to 0.02% in the general population. Advances in vitrectomy machines and intraocular medical devices have improved the surgical management of retinal detachment and optimized anatomical and functional outcomes. He has long been involved as the principal investigator in clinical studies aimed at optimizing the surgical management of primary rhegmatogenous retinal detachments. These studies have provided important evidence regarding the efficacy and safety of various systems, techniques, and medical devices.


== Vita privata ed attività sportiva ==
==Personal Life and Sporting Activity==
Coniugato con Martina Angi dal 2007, ha due figli Lucia e Ferdinando.
He has been married to Martina Angi since 2007, and they have two children, Lucia and Ferdinando.  


Il prof. Romano pratica attività sportiva e competizioni nazionali ed internazionali, tra le quali ricordiamo:
Prof. Romano actively participates in national and international sports competitions, including full Ironman triathlons, ultramarathons, cycling events, and marathons.


* Triathlon-full Ironman (3.8 km nuoto, 180 km bici, 42 km corsa):
* Triathlon-full Ironman (3.8 km swim, 180 km bike, 42 km run):
** Vichy 2017 (Francia)
** Vichy 2017 (Francia)
** Zurigo 2018 (Svizzera)
** Zurigo 2018 (Svizzera)
** Amburgo 2019 (Germania)
** Amburgo 2019 (Germania)
** Klaghenfurt 2023 (Austria)


* Ultramaratone (100 km):
* Ultramarathon (100 km):
** Passatore 2017 Firenze – Faenza (IT)
** Passatore 2017 Firenze – Faenza (IT)


* Triatholn-70.3 Ironman (1,5 km nuoto, 80 km bici, 21 km corsa):
* Triatholn-70.3 Ironman (1,5 km nuoto, 80 km bici, 21 km corsa):
** Pescara 2016 (IT)
** Pescara 2016 (IT)
** Candia 2022 (IT)
** Candia 2022 (IT)
** Venezia-Jesolo (IT)


* Maratone (42,195 km):
* Bike
** Firenze 2013 (IT)
** Eroica Montalcino 2022 (IT)
** Milano 2014 (IT)
** Duomo-Stelvio 2023 (IT)
** Torino 2014 (IT)
** Berlino 2015 (IT)
** Chicago (USA) 2016
** Pisa 2016 (IT)
** Milano 2019 (IT)
** Firenze 2019 (IT)
** Navigli 2019 (IT)
** Firenze 2021 (IT)
** Venezia 2021 (IT)
** Milano 2022 (IT)


== Collegamenti esterni ==
* Marathon (42,195 km):
** Firenze 2013 (IT)
** Milano 2014 (IT)
** Torino 2014 (IT)
** Berlino 2015 (D)
** Chicago (USA) 2016
** Pisa 2016 (IT)
** Milano 2019 (IT)
** Firenze 2019 (IT)
** Navigli 2019 (IT)
** Firenze 2021 (IT)
** Venezia 2021 (IT)
** Venezia 2022 (IT)
** Milano 2022 (IT)
** Padova 2023 (IT)
** New York 2023 (US)
** Milano 2024 (IT)
 
== Humanitarian Activities==
Since 2006, Prof. Romano has been collaborating with CBM (Christian Blind Mission) in the fight against global blindness, participating in humanitarian missions in Africa. He was elected a board member of CBM Italia ONLUS in 2020.
 
== Positions Held in Foundations and Scientific Societies==
He holds multiple roles, including:
 
* Scientific Director of ESASO (2022-present)
* Vitreoretina Subspecialty Section Committee, EURETINA (2021-present)
* Founder and Member of the Italian Society of Ophthalmic Sciences (SISO)
* Secretary of the Italian Group of Vitreoretinal Surgery (GIVRE) (2017-2022).
 
== External Links ==
* [https://scholar.google.it/citations?user=tWdbcfwAAAAJ Mario Romano - Google Scholar]
* [https://scholar.google.it/citations?user=tWdbcfwAAAAJ Mario Romano - Google Scholar]
* [https://www.marioromano.info/ Mario Romano - Personal Website]
* [https://www.marioromano.info/ Mario Romano - Personal Website]
* [https://www.linkedin.com/in/mario-romano-8374a095 Mario Romano - LinkedIn]
* [https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuGDryyBavWrf1hv9DUQWXw/videos Mario Romano - Youtube channel]
* [https://www.instagram.com/marioromanoeye/ Mario Romano Instagram]


== Notes ==
== References ==
<references/>
<references/>

Latest revision as of 07:15, 24 October 2024

Mario Romano (Naples, July 3, 1978) is a surgeon and ophthalmologist, known for his scientific research and his clinical work in vitreoretinal diseases. He teaches as a Full Professor of Ophthalmology and serves as the Director of the Ophthalmology residency program at Humanitas University, Milan[1], as well as the Head of the Department of Ophthalmology at Humanitas Gavazzeni-Castelli, Bergamo[2]. Prof. Romano is currently the Scientific Director at the European School for Advanced Studies in Ophthalmology (ESASO), Lugano, Switzerland[3].

Mario Romano
Nationality
Italian
Honors
Knight of the Order of Merit of the Italian Republic
Mario Romano Onorificenza.jpg
Education
Degree with honors from the University of Naples (100/110 with honors)
Residency in Ophthalmology (50/50 with honors)
PhD in Pharmacology and Molecular Oncology at the University of Ferrara
Fellowship in Retinal Diseases, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Harvard Medical School
Fellowship in Vitreoretinal Surgery, Royal Liverpool University Hospital
Master's in Leadership, Management, and Coordination of Healthcare Facilities
Fields
Ocular surgery with a primary interest in vitreoretinal diseases
Activities
Director of Ophthalmology Residency Program, Humanitas University, Milan
Full Professor of Ophthalmology at Humanitas University, Milan
Director of the Ophthalmology Department at Humanitas Gavazzeni-Castelli, Bergamo
Scientific Director at the European School for Advanced Studies in Ophthalmology (ESASO), Lugano, CH
Notes
Top Italian Scientist in Clinical Sciences [4]

Early Life and Education

After graduating from high school with top honors, he earned his degree summa cum laude in 2002 from the University of Naples. Following his graduation from the Ophthalmology residency training (50/50 with honors) with a thesis titled “Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor and Erythropoietin in Retinal Neovascularization, he continued his specialized training in vitreoretinal diseases and animal models with a fellowship at the Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Harvard Medical School, in 2005-2006 under the supervision of Prof. Donald D’Amico. He also completed a fellowship in vitreoretinal surgery at Royal Liverpool University in 2008 under Prof. David Wong's guidance.

In 2010, he earned his PhD in Pharmacology and Molecular Oncology at the University of Ferrara with a thesis titled “Coagulation-Balance Gene Predictors Influencing Visual Prognosis in Patients Treated with Photodynamic Therapy for Classic Choroidal Neovascularization Secondary to Age-Related Macular Degeneration.”

In 2018, he also obtained a second-level Master's degree in "Healthcare Management, Direction, and Coordination of Healthcare, Social and Social-Care Structures."

Prof. Romano was habilitated as a Professor in the field of Ophthalmology (02/2015 for associate professorship, 07/2020 for full professorship).

Scientific Publications

He is author of more than 300 international scientific publications in peer-reviewed journals, focusing on translational and clinical aspects of ocular diseases[5][6][7]. Prof. Romano was ranked by Expertscape (2013-2023) as the leading European expert and the second worldwide expert in vitreoretinal surgery. (https://expertscape.com/ex/vitreoretinal+surgery/c/eur) e secondo maggior esperto al mondo (https://expertscape.com/ex/vitreoretinal+surgery)

Patents

He is the inventor of three patents in the field of ocular disease care:

  • "Posture Monitoring Device for Patients Treated with Vitrectomy" (No. 0001400522, 24/10/2013)
  • "Vitrector" (No. 0001412237, 22/12/2014)
  • "Adapter for Ophthalmoscope" (No. 102016000009992, 01/02/2016)

Teaching Positions

Professor Romano is a faculty member at Humanitas University, where he lectures in Medicine and Surgery, contributes to the MedTech program, and serves as the Director of the Ophthalmology residency program.

He is also the Director of the second-level annual Master's program in Vitreoretinal Surgery. Additionally, he developed the digital platform ELOS (e-learning ocular surgery), donated to ESASO during the pandemic, where he now serves as Scientific Director.

  • Humanitas University. Medicine and Surgery course, Head and Neck.
  • Humanitas University. MedTech course, Head and Neck.
  • Humanitas University. Director and lecturer of the Ophthalmology residency program.
  • Humanitas University. PhD program in Data Science in Medicine & Nutrition.
  • Humanitas University. Director and lecturer of the Second-Level Master's in Vitreoretinal Surgery.
  • European School for Advanced Studies in Ophthalmology (ESASO), Lugano CH. Lecturer and Scientific Director.
  • University of Naples Federico II. PhD program in Neurosciences.
  • University of Naples Federico II. Second-Level Master's in Advanced Studies in Hemophilia and Thrombosis.
  • University of Naples Federico II. Lecturer in the Integrated Course in Orthoptic Sciences and Ophthalmological Assistance: Clinical Pathophysiology of the Visual System.
  • University of Naples Federico II. Lecturer in the Integrated Course in Orthoptic Sciences and Ophthalmological Assistance: Prevention Profile and Health Services.
  • University of Naples Federico II. Lecturer in the Integrated Course in Orthoptic Sciences and Ophthalmological Assistance: Ophthalmological and Orthoptic Semiology.
  • University of Naples Federico II. Lecturer in the Integrated Course in Ophthalmological Rehabilitation and Emergencies.
  • University of Naples Federico II. Lecturer in the Integrated Course in Ophthalmological Rehabilitation and Techniques in Neuropsychiatric Rehabilitation.

Surgical Activity

Prof. Romano primarily focuses his clinical practice on ocular surgery, with a special interest in complex vitreoretinal diseases. He performs highly complex surgeries on the posterior segment of the eye, including retinal detachment, macular hole, epiretinal membrane, brachytherapy, and proliferative diabetic retinopathy.

Areas of Clinical and Preclinical Research

His main research areas include induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), Müller cells, digitization and virtual reality systems in ophthalmology, intraocular tamponades, toxicity of medical devices, ocular surgery machinery fluid dynamics, and retinal detachment.

Induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs)

He works in a research group focused on reprogramming differentiated peripheral somatic cells into retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cells. The goal is to create a population of cells from the patient's own cells, capable of replacing damaged retinal cells. Currently, the group has already developed a polarized monolayer of retinal pigment epithelium cells (iPSCs-RPE) from peripheral fibroblasts, which is able to adhere to a hyaluronic acid matrix with anti-inflammatory properties.

Müller Cells

In recent years, growing scientific evidence has highlighted the crucial role of Müller cells in the homeostasis and structural support of the retina, as well as their potential for cellular trans-differentiation. Prof. Romano is involved in studying the role of these cells in the pathogenesis of various retinal diseases and the effect of potential iatrogenic damage on the functional and anatomical outcomes of vitreoretinal surgery. These studies have enhanced the understanding of common retinal diseases and provided significant insights into optimizing their clinical and surgical management.

Digitization and Immersive Virtual Visualization Systems in Ophthalmology

Prof. Romano is engaged in various translational projects aimed at optimizing digital and virtual resources to support teaching and healthcare activities.

Intraocular Tamponades

Intraocular liquid tamponade agents and vital dyes are medical devices that play a crucial role in vitreoretinal surgery, especially in managing the most complex vitreoretinal diseases. However, these compounds have been associated with significant ocular complications. Despite their essential role, our knowledge of their properties and behavior in vitreoretinal surgery remains limited. Over the past decade, Prof. Romano has collaborated with other research groups to characterize these compounds in terms of their chemical, physical, rheological, and biological outcomes to optimize their use in vitreoretinal surgery and evaluate the pathogenic mechanisms of complications associated with their use. These studies have expanded the understanding of the properties of intraocular liquid tamponades, providing vitreoretinal surgeons with essential information to use them more safely and effectively. He has been primarily involved in these studies, particularly in assessing the clinical and surgical relevance of the experimental findings. Prof. Romano recently published an Evidence-Based Expert-Led Consensus on staging silicone oil-induced emulsification following intraocular use. [1](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37071921/)

Medical Device Toxicity

Proper evaluation of the potential toxicity of intraocular medical devices is a primary concern in vitreoretinal surgery, especially in light of recent reports of severe acute postoperative ocular toxicity cases. Although the safety of these devices for their intended use is an essential prerequisite, there remain controversies surrounding current regulatory standards. Recently, alongside a specialized research group, he conducted several studies aimed at evaluating the biocompatibility and safety of intraocular medical devices through the validation of methods for the assessment of in vitro cytotoxicity, evaluating the potential cytotoxicity of commercially available medical devices, and characterizing potential contaminants/impurities in these compounds. Additionally, he was the first to study the effect of the interaction of multiple intraocular devices in terms of cytotoxicity to simulate a real surgical scenario and obtain results that could be better translated into surgical practice. These studies provided key insights into the biocompatibility of currently used intraocular medical devices in vitreoretinal surgery. Prof. Romano coordinates a European working group aimed at monitoring and reducing PFAS production in ophthalmology, assessing the real medical necessity of using PFAS. PFAS, an acronym for "perfluorinated alkylated substances," are highly toxic substances capable of accumulating in the environment irreversibly and causing damage to the ozone layer.

Fluidics of Machines Used in Ocular Surgery

Fluidics, particularly the flow rate and acceleration generated by vitrectomy systems, are significantly related to the efficiency of vitreous removal and the generation of vitreoretinal traction, thus impacting the safety and efficacy of vitrectomy itself. In the last years, he has been working on the evaluating and the eventual optimization of the performance of vitrectomy systems. These studies have expanded the knowledge of the fluidics of some of the currently available vitrectomy systems, providing important information for selecting the optimal configuration.

Retinal Detachment

Primary rhegmatogenous retinal detachment is a vision-threatening condition with an annual incidence ranging from 0.01% to 0.02% in the general population. Advances in vitrectomy machines and intraocular medical devices have improved the surgical management of retinal detachment and optimized anatomical and functional outcomes. He has long been involved as the principal investigator in clinical studies aimed at optimizing the surgical management of primary rhegmatogenous retinal detachments. These studies have provided important evidence regarding the efficacy and safety of various systems, techniques, and medical devices.

Personal Life and Sporting Activity

He has been married to Martina Angi since 2007, and they have two children, Lucia and Ferdinando.

Prof. Romano actively participates in national and international sports competitions, including full Ironman triathlons, ultramarathons, cycling events, and marathons.

  • Triathlon-full Ironman (3.8 km swim, 180 km bike, 42 km run):
    • Vichy 2017 (Francia)
    • Zurigo 2018 (Svizzera)
    • Amburgo 2019 (Germania)
    • Klaghenfurt 2023 (Austria)
  • Ultramarathon (100 km):
    • Passatore 2017 Firenze – Faenza (IT)
  • Triatholn-70.3 Ironman (1,5 km nuoto, 80 km bici, 21 km corsa):
    • Pescara 2016 (IT)
    • Candia 2022 (IT)
    • Venezia-Jesolo (IT)
  • Bike
    • Eroica Montalcino 2022 (IT)
    • Duomo-Stelvio 2023 (IT)
  • Marathon (42,195 km):
    • Firenze 2013 (IT)
    • Milano 2014 (IT)
    • Torino 2014 (IT)
    • Berlino 2015 (D)
    • Chicago (USA) 2016
    • Pisa 2016 (IT)
    • Milano 2019 (IT)
    • Firenze 2019 (IT)
    • Navigli 2019 (IT)
    • Firenze 2021 (IT)
    • Venezia 2021 (IT)
    • Venezia 2022 (IT)
    • Milano 2022 (IT)
    • Padova 2023 (IT)
    • New York 2023 (US)
    • Milano 2024 (IT)

Humanitarian Activities

Since 2006, Prof. Romano has been collaborating with CBM (Christian Blind Mission) in the fight against global blindness, participating in humanitarian missions in Africa. He was elected a board member of CBM Italia ONLUS in 2020.

Positions Held in Foundations and Scientific Societies

He holds multiple roles, including:

  • Scientific Director of ESASO (2022-present)
  • Vitreoretina Subspecialty Section Committee, EURETINA (2021-present)
  • Founder and Member of the Italian Society of Ophthalmic Sciences (SISO)
  • Secretary of the Italian Group of Vitreoretinal Surgery (GIVRE) (2017-2022).

External Links

References

  1. ↑ Mario Romano - Hunimed
  2. ↑ Prof. Mario Romano - Humanitas Castelli
  3. ↑ ROMANO Mario - ESASO
  4. ↑ Mario Romano - Top Italian Scientist in Clinical Sciences
  5. ↑ Mario Romano - ORCID
  6. ↑ Mario Romano - Scopus
  7. ↑ Mario Romano - PubMed
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