Lithotripsy machine defunct at Rewari Civil Hospital
The lithotripsy machine at Sir Shadi Lal District Civil Hospital, Rewari, has remained non-functional for several months, leaving patients suffering from kidney stones in a state of distress. Many are being compelled to seek treatment at private hospitals, where the costs are significantly higher.
“The machine, which was purchased a few years ago at a cost exceeding Rs 3 crore, operated for just some months before developing a technical fault that rendered it unusable. During its operational period, the machine served not only patients from Rewari but also from neighbouring areas such as Mahendragarh and Pataudi in Gurugram district,” said a doctor at Civil Hospital.
Local patients are now bearing the brunt of the situation. Dolly, a resident, undergoing treatment for kidney stones, expressed her frustration, stating that due to the non-functional machine at Rewari Civil Hospital, she has no option but to turn to private healthcare—a financially burdensome alternative for many like her.
Dr Suresh Kataria, General Surgeon at the Civil Hospital, stated that when the lithotripsy machine was operational, 39 kidney stone patients were treated.
“At present, kidney stones are being removed through general surgery. The lithotripsy machine is specifically used for treating stones upto 2 cms in size, while surgical procedures for larger or more complex cases are available at bigger medical centres,” Dr Kataria added.
Dr Surendra Yadav, Principal Medical Officer at the Civil Hospital, acknowledged the issue and confirmed that an estimated repair cost of Rs 33 lakh has been quoted by the manufacturer. “A formal proposal has been submitted to the state health authorities for budgetary approval. The matter was also brought to the attention of Health Minister Arti Singh Rao during her recent visit to the hospital,” he claimed.
Dr Narendra Dahiya, Civil Surgeon, said the matter was under consideration of the state authorities and that the machine was expected to be repaired soon.
Haryana Tribune