Final answer:
The statement that is NOT true regarding cryofixation is B: It is used by medical personnel to examine tissues during surgery. Cryofixation is used for freezing cells and tissues for microscopic examination and is different from cryosurgery, which is what might be used during surgical procedures.
Step-by-step explanation:
The student has asked which of the following statements is NOT true regarding cryofixation:
- A: It minimizes the formation of artifacts.
- B: It is used by medical personnel to examine tissues during surgery.
- C: If performed too quickly, it can result in the formation of ice crystals that destroy the appearance of the cell.
- D: It may employ high pressure and liquid nitrogen.
- E: Temperatures below the freezing point of water need to be employed.
The correct answer is B. Cryofixation is a process where cells and tissues are frozen rapidly at cryogenic temperatures to preserve their structure for microscopic examination, typically not during surgery. Cryosurgery, however, utilizes extreme cold to destroy tissue during surgical procedures, which is different from cryofixation. The other statements about cryofixation involving the prevention of artifacts, potential ice crystal formation if done too quickly, the use of liquid nitrogen and high pressure, and the requirement for temperatures below the freezing point of water are all true and relevant to the practice of cryofixation.