The present invention relates to a method of producing an optically detectable and retro-reflective medical tracking marker, wherein electromagnetic energy is applied to at least one section of a retro-reflective surface of a marker structure in an amount that is sufficient to alter the material properties of the retro-reflective surface, such that the capability of reflecting electromagnetic radiation of the at least one section is reduced to a second capability of reflecting electromagnetic radiation. The present invention further relates to a corresponding retro-reflective medical tracking marker and a corresponding use thereof.