The retina is a clear tissue that lines the back of the eye. As a result of injury or ageing tears can form in the retina. If a tear allows fluid in behind the retina it can lift the retina away from it's underlying blood supply (detachment). A detached retina often needs to be re-attached urgently to prevent permanent damage. Surgery with cryopexy (freezing) and silicone buckling is required to close the hole in the retina. This reestablishes a watertight space, approximates and seals together the two layers of the retina around the tear.