Final answer:
A laser is used in laser surgery to repair a detached retina by creating scar tissue, often with a green argon laser, focused precisely to prevent damage to surrounding areas and restore vision.
Step-by-step explanation:
In laser surgery, a laser is used to repair a detached retina. This procedure involves using a wavelength that is strongly absorbed by the tissue it targets, which, for the retina, often involves a green argon laser that is well-absorbed by tissues containing blood. The focused laser burns a small spot on the retina, creating scar tissue that adheres the retina back in place, potentially saving a patient's vision from complete loss. This precise focusing capability of the laser is vital as it allows for accurate repair work without affecting surrounding tissues. More broadly, such laser treatments are part of a family of corrective eye procedures that include LASIK, where lasers are used for their ability to produce a pure wavelength of light that can be precisely controlled.