What is involved in retinal cryopexy in the case of retinal detachment?

Freeze therapy: When tears in the retina are identified, a goal of intervention is to seal the tear (like spot-welding it closed) to prevent fluid from getting underneath the retina. Cryotherpay does just that by applying a very cold probe to the outside of the eye to freeze small spots around the tear. Local numbing medicine is usually used before the cryotherapy to minimize tha discomfort.

Cryo: Cryo involves using a very cold probe to seal some areas of the peripheral retina. This is usually used with laser and retinal surgery to fix a retinal detachment, and to prevent it from recurring. The eye is numb during the entire procedure.

Outpatient Surgery: A retinal detachment can be repaired two ways. First, via an in-office procedure called a pneumatic retinopexy, and second, a more involved outpatient surgery employing a vitrectomy and/or scleral buckle. The first type is suited for a certain type of detachment that can be repaired with laser or a freezing treatment, and a gas bubble injection, whereas the second type is done in the operating room.

Cryopexy: Retinal cryopexy usually involves the placement of a local anesthetic followed by a nearly painless application of cold (cryo) that creates an inflamed area to which the detached area adheres. Sometimes, a gas bubble is also used to bring the retina closer to the eye wall.