Which term denotes the ophthalmic technique of using extreme cold to fix retinal detachment?

• A. Craniotomy
• B. Cryptorchidism
• C. Cryopexy
• D. Cyanosis

Answer: (C)

The concept is freezing therapy used to create a seal around a retinal tear. Cryopexy applies extreme cold to the area around a retinal break, causing localized tissue changes that lead to scar formation and a strong chorioretinal adhesion. This adhesion helps reattach the retina and prevent fluid from seeping under it. In practice, a cryoprobe freezes tissue around the tear, and the resulting scar tethers the retina to the underlying layers, similar in goal to laser photocoagulation but achieved with cold instead of heat. The other terms don’t describe an eye procedure: craniotomy is opening the skull, cryptorchidism is an undescended testicle condition, and cyanosis is a bluish discoloration from low oxygen.