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The use of intense heat from a xenon photocoagulator to create adhesions that seal breaks in the retina and to destroy proliferating blood vessels that are hemorrhaging into the retina and/or vitreous humor is called _____.

A) Laser therapy
B) Cryotherapy
C) Chemotherapy
D) Radiation therapy

User Jim Wood
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Final answer:

The use of intense heat from a xenon photocoagulator to seal breaks in the retina and to destroy proliferating blood vessels is called Laser therapy. This technique involves precise application of laser energy which is strongly absorbed by the affected tissues, enabling targeted treatment and preservation of vision.

Step-by-step explanation:

The Procedure for Sealing Retinal Breaks and Destroying Proliferating Blood Vessels

The procedure described in the question utilizes intense heat from a xenon photocoagulator to create adhesions that seal breaks in the retina and destroy hemorrhaging blood vessels. This medical technique is known as Laser therapy (A). The specificity of the laser's wavelength allows it to be strongly absorbed by the retinal tissue, which facilitates precise coagulation and adhesion formation.

Particularly in cases of retinal detachment, a focused laser burns a small spot on the retina to form scar tissue that holds the retina in place, thus salvaging the patient's vision. An example of this is the use of a green argon laser, which is well-absorbed by tissues that contain blood, making it effective for repairing retinal tears. In contrast, other forms of treatment such as cryotherapy, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy do not utilize this specific laser technology aimed at coagulating retina tissue.

User Justin Emgarten
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