Subretinal Hemorrhage: Causes, Risks, and Surgical Displacement Techniques

A delicate condition often resulting from macular degeneration or severe trauma. Learn how Dr. Mahmoud Hassan at Mashreq Center can help save your vision by displacing subretinal hemorrhage.

Subretinal Hemorrhage: A Silent Threat to Your Vision and How to Combat It

The retina, that delicate and sensitive layer at the back of the eye, is responsible for capturing light and converting it into neural signals that are sent to the brain to form the images we see. However, when a subretinal hemorrhage occurs, this precise system is disrupted, potentially threatening vision significantly. This condition, which can seem frightening, requires a deep understanding of its causes, risks, and most importantly, the latest surgical techniques available to manage it.

In this article, we will delve into the details of subretinal hemorrhage, focusing on common causes and the hazard it poses to the eye, in addition to reviewing the innovative surgical displacement methods offered by Al Mashriq Eye Center, under the supervision of elite specialists, including Dr. Mahmoud Hassan, who is a key contributor to the development of the center's services.

What is a Subretinal Hemorrhage?

A subretinal hemorrhage is a medical condition that occurs when blood leaks into the space between the inner retinal layer (the light-sensitive layer) and a cellular layer known as Bruch's membrane. This bleeding can be small or large and may affect a small area of the retina or extend to cover a significant portion, especially in the central area responsible for visual acuity (the macula).

When blood accumulates under the retina, it presses on the photoreceptor cells (cones and rods), impeding their normal function and leading to blurry vision, blind spots, or even sudden central vision loss.

Main Causes of Subretinal Hemorrhage

Multiple causes can lead to a subretinal hemorrhage, often related to medical conditions affecting the tiny blood vessels in the eye. The most prominent of these causes include:

• Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD): This is the most common cause, especially in the wet type (Wet AMD). In this condition, abnormal new blood vessels grow under the retina; these vessels are weak and fragile, making them prone to bleeding easily.
• Diabetic Retinopathy: Diabetes can affect blood vessels throughout the body, including the retina. Advanced diabetic retinopathy can lead to the growth of fragile new blood vessels (neovascularization) that may bleed under the retina.
• Retinal Vascular Occlusion: Whether it's a retinal vein occlusion or a retinal artery occlusion, these conditions can cause a lack of oxygen in the retina, stimulating the growth of new blood vessels that may lead to hemorrhage.
• Eye Injuries: Direct or indirect trauma to the eye, such as a strong blow, can cause a rupture in the blood vessels under the retina and lead to bleeding.
• Fundus Inflammations: Some types of immune or infectious fundus inflammations can affect Bruch's membrane and blood vessels, increasing the risk of hemorrhage.
• Other Diseases: Conditions such as sickle cell anemia, certain genetic disorders, or even the use of some medications can increase the likelihood of a subretinal hemorrhage.

The Danger of Subretinal Hemorrhage to Vision

The danger of subretinal hemorrhage lies in its ability to cause permanent damage to central vision, which is responsible for reading, recognizing faces, and driving. The severity of the danger depends on several factors:

• Size of the Hemorrhage: The larger the hemorrhage, the greater the affected area of the retina, and consequently, the more severe the vision loss.
• Location of the Hemorrhage: If the hemorrhage occurs in the central area (the macula), the impact on visual acuity is much more significant compared to a hemorrhage in the periphery.
• Cause of the Hemorrhage: Some causes, such as wet macular degeneration, may be accompanied by the growth of new blood vessels that can recur if not effectively treated.
• Speed of Treatment: Delaying appropriate treatment can lead to retinal fibrosis or permanent damage to light-sensitive cells, making vision restoration more difficult.

Scientifically, the accumulation of blood under the retina can lead to retinal detachment or damage to the optic nerve cells, which may result in permanent vision impairment or even blindness in severe and untreated cases.

Modern Surgical Displacement Techniques for Subretinal Hemorrhage

In the past, treatment options for subretinal hemorrhage were limited, and outcomes were often unsatisfactory. However, with advances in retinal surgery, sophisticated surgical techniques have emerged to remove accumulated blood beneath the retina, reduce pressure on light-sensitive cells, and treat the underlying cause of the bleeding.

1. Intravitreal Injections

In some cases, particularly those associated with wet age-related macular degeneration or diabetic retinopathy, direct injection of medications into the eye may be the first step. These injections are used to reduce the growth of abnormal blood vessels and prevent their leakage or bleeding. Medications used in this context include Eylea and Vabysmo, which work by inhibiting vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF).

It is worth noting that the price of intravitreal injections (IVI) in Egypt for 2026 starts from approximately 7,000 EGP. The price of Eylea / Lucentis injections in Egypt for 2026 is approximately 9,000 EGP, while the price of Vabysmo injections in Egypt for 2026 is approximately 11,000 EGP. These prices are approximate and depend on the patient's condition.

2. Vitrectomy Surgery

When the hemorrhage is extensive or does not respond to injection therapy, vitrectomy surgery may be necessary. This delicate surgery involves removing the vitreous gel that fills the eye, and then using precise microscopic instruments to remove blood clots accumulated beneath the retina. In some cases, gas or silicone oil may be used to press the retina and keep it in place.

Complex or tractional vitrectomy or vitrectomy with retinal detachment are advanced procedures. The price of complex/tractional vitrectomy or vitrectomy for retinal detachment in Egypt for 2026 is approximately an average of 50,000 EGP. The price of silicone oil removal in Egypt for 2026 is approximately 25,000 EGP.

3. Direct Displacement Techniques

In specific cases, the surgeon may resort to using innovative techniques to displace accumulated blood beneath the retina away from the central area, using special syringes or medical fluids. The goal is to clear the macular area to allow light-sensitive cells to recover.

4. Treating the Underlying Cause

It is crucial to address the underlying cause of the bleeding. If the cause is diabetic retinopathy, blood sugar levels must be controlled, and argon laser sessions or additional injections may be required. If the cause is macular degeneration, regular follow-up with a doctor and the use of available treatments are paramount. You can learn more about diabetic retinopathy, its causes, and treatment.

When to See a Doctor?

If you notice any sudden change in your vision, such as:

• Appearance of new black spots or floaters.
• Sudden blurring of central vision.
• Wavy or distorted lines in your visual field.
• Sudden loss of vision in a part of your visual field.

You should immediately consult an ophthalmologist specializing in retinal diseases. The sooner the diagnosis and treatment, the greater the chance of preserving your vision.

Conclusion

Subretinal hemorrhage is a serious medical condition that requires prompt and precise intervention. Advances in retinal surgery techniques, such as vitrectomy and direct displacement techniques, have revolutionized the ability to save and restore vision in many cases. At Al Mashreq Eye Center, we offer the latest diagnostic and surgical solutions for treating complex retinal diseases, including subretinal hemorrhage, under the supervision of a specialized medical team led by Dr. Mahmoud Hassan. Do not hesitate to seek specialized medical assistance to maintain your eye health and clear vision.

For reservations and inquiries: 01002310813

For more information on eye health and advanced surgeries, you can follow Dr. Mahmoud Hassan's YouTube channel: .

Articles You Might Like to Read

• Vabysmo Injection in the Eye: A Modern Breakthrough for Macular Edema Treatment
• Is the Optic Nerve Affected After Retinal Detachment Surgery? Facts Explained by a Retinal Surgeon

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