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MD00306DEC2024

The Hidden Dangers of Outdated Medical Practices: Insights from Dr. Udaya Bhaskar Tupakula

The Hidden Dangers of Outdated Medical Practices: Insights from Dr. Udaya Bhaskar Tupakula

We live in a world where technology has advanced immensely—rovers are on Mars, humans have walked on the Moon, and smartphones with 5G and AI are in our hands. Yet, when it comes to healthcare, outdated and primitive practices still harm our most valuable asset: the human body. For the past 14 years, I’ve worked to raise awareness about the importance of modern, evidence-based medical treatments.

But recently, the number of patients suffering from complications due to outdated methods has made this mission more urgent. In areas around Tirupati, like Puttur/Eslapuram and Kallur, we see many victims of these outdated treatments. The issue affects everyone, regardless of education or social status. Many people avoid surgery out of fear or cost concerns, while others trust ancient methods like Shalya medicine. What they don’t realize is that these practices often cause more harm than good. One of the biggest misconceptions is that all fractures should be treated the same way. I’ve seen patients with minor injuries treated with outdated methods like chicken wire or makeshift bandages. These methods are not just ineffective—they also undermine the expertise of modern orthopedic care.  I’ve witnessed the consequences of this firsthand. Bones heal in misaligned ways, and patients suffer nerve and blood supply damage from improperly applied implants.  By the time these patients seek treatment, it’s often too late for a simple fix. Some argue that surgery is too expensive, but free treatment is available at local hospitals or at Tirupati Ruya hospitals.  The real cost is the long-term damage caused by avoiding proper care. Attempting to fix complications with outdated methods only makes things worse. In some cases, what could have been a minor procedure turns into a complex surgery with poor results.

As a doctor, it’s frustrating to see patients suffer from preventable complications. But my mission remains to educate people and help them avoid these outdated practices in the future.


MD00323DEC2024

Midnight Emergency: A Critical Airway Rescue

Midnight Emergency: A Critical Airway Rescue

In a dramatic midnight emergency, doctors successfully saved the life of an elderly man who was rushed to the hospital after choking on a large piece of meat. The patient’s medical history, which included coronary artery disease (CAD) and a previous stroke (CVA), made the situation even more critical.

The heroic effort was led by Dr. Abhijan (MBBS, DNB, FIP, EDARM), Pulmonologist, Dr. Ramesh (MD), Anaesthesiologist, and Dr. Suresh, Emergency Physician, at Ekashila Hospital in Hanumakonda, Telangana. Upon arrival, the patient suffered cardiac arrest but was revived after two cycles of CPR and intubation. A CT scan revealed a massive 8-10 cm piece of meat lodged in the windpipe, causing a life-threatening obstruction. Emergency bronchoscopy confirmed the blockage in the middle section of the trachea. Removing such a large organic object carried significant risks, including airway injury, infection due to potential spillage, and the possibility of requiring a tracheostomy. The medical team employed specialized tools—a snare, basket, and endotracheal tube—to carefully extract the object in one piece, avoiding complications. Organic obstructions are particularly challenging due to their tendency to break apart, increasing the risk of secondary infections.

Thanks to the team’s quick action and expertise, the procedure was a success. The patient is now stable, with no signs of brain damage, and is expected to be extubated by morning. This remarkable rescue highlights the critical importance of skilled medical intervention and coordination in emergencies. The doctors’ swift response saved a life against all odds.

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