Deadly Consequences of Unregulated Piles Treatment in Telangana
Hyderabad is witnessing a disturbing rise in medical emergencies caused by unqualified practitioners operating illegal piles treatment centers across Telangana. The combination of shame associated with the condition and promises of low-cost treatment is driving patients into dangerous hands with sometimes fatal consequences.
Two serious cases reported in November alone highlight the severity of this public health crisis. On November 22, a 17-year-old student from Mallapur in Medchal died following an allegedly botched procedure at a private clinic in Hayathnagar. Earlier that month, a 29-year-old man from Narsampet in Warangal was left in critical condition after surgery at another unregistered treatment center.
The Scale of Illegal Medical Operations
Health experts estimate there are approximately 850 to 900 unauthorized clinics operating throughout Telangana, with about 150-200 concentrated in Hyderabad alone and another 30 in Warangal. These facilities typically operate without proper licenses, sterile environments, or trained surgical staff, yet they continue to attract patients with promises of quick cures and affordable prices.
Dr. Naresh Kumar V, a senior general surgeon, emphasized that the common belief that piles treatment is a simple procedure is a dangerous misconception that costs lives. "Proper piles surgery requires clinical evaluation, safe anesthesia, infection control and post-operative care. When untrained hands attempt it, the risks of severe bleeding, sepsis, fistula formation and even death rise sharply," he explained.
How These Illegal Centers Operate
According to Telangana Medical Council members, many of these dangerous operations run from small rented rooms or makeshift clinics. Dr. G Srinivas, TGMC vice chairman, revealed the horrifying conditions: "Some burn piles with crude instruments or perform procedures without anesthesia or sterilization. This is extremely dangerous. Only qualified general surgeons with proper theatre facilities should perform such surgeries."
The problem reflects both medical negligence and significant gaps in regulation and public awareness. Dr. A Lingam, IMA Gajwel president and general surgeon, noted that many patients from less-educated backgrounds are particularly vulnerable. "Most victims come from less-educated backgrounds and are reluctant to discuss anorectal diseases. This makes them easy targets for these unscrupulous operators," he stated.
The financial aspect reveals a clear pattern of exploitation:
- Unqualified practitioners in rural areas charge ₹6,000–₹7,000
- The same procedure costs ₹20,000–₹25,000 in Hyderabad
- Qualified specialists charge around ₹70,000 or above for proper surgical treatment
Regulatory Challenges and Solutions
Officials admit that enforcement hasn't kept pace with the rapid proliferation of illegal medical units. A senior health department official acknowledged: "It is far too easy for anyone to rent a room, put up a board and claim to be a piles specialist. We are planning more stringent inspections, tougher penalties and easy reporting mechanisms to prevent more tragedies."
Health experts recommend multiple approaches to combat this crisis:
- Stronger regulatory checks and mandatory verification of medical qualifications
- Widespread public awareness programs about the dangers of unregulated treatment
- More accessible and affordable surgical services in government hospitals
Dr. Naresh offered crucial advice for potential patients: "People must always check a doctor's credentials and seek treatment only from qualified surgeons. No embarrassment is worth risking your life." As these illegal operations continue to endanger lives, public vigilance and stronger regulatory action become increasingly urgent needs in Telangana's healthcare landscape.
