Saudi Conjoined Twins Programme: Transforming Lives Through Expert Medical Care And Support

The Saudi Conjoined Twins Programme, managed by the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center (KSrelief), showcases the humanitarian and medical accomplishments of Saudi Arabia. It highlights the efforts of King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud. This initiative has positioned the Kingdom as a leader in this rare medical field, offering hope to families facing complex challenges.

Since its inception in 1990, the programme has become a global model. It has transformed challenging beginnings into hopeful stories for children and families worldwide. The programme covers all expenses related to separation surgeries, treatment, and post-operative rehabilitation. This includes transportation and accommodation for families, creating a supportive environment for healing.

Over 35 years, the initiative has conducted 67 separation surgeries and evaluated 152 cases from 28 countries. Various entities support these efforts, including the Ministry of Defense, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and King Abdullah Specialized Children's Hospital. The programme's success is celebrated on World Conjoined Twins Day, observed on November 24.

In November 2024, KSrelief hosted an international conference to commemorate the programme's achievements. This event brought together global experts to mark World Conjoined Twins Day. The conference led to agreements ensuring ongoing healthcare and education for conjoined twins in their home countries.

The centre has signed several agreements aimed at caring for conjoined twins after separation. These agreements focus on providing healthcare and education tailored to their needs in their home countries. The goal is to facilitate access to health, education, and social services according to international standards.

Additionally, KSrelief has established cooperation programs with Imperial College London and Great Ormond Street Hospital in London. These collaborations support research and studies related to conjoined twins. A dedicated website for the Saudi Conjoined Twins Program provides information about the medical team, achievements, and contact details.

This phase marks significant progress in enhancing services available to conjoined twins. Services will be linked to a database for ongoing monitoring. The centre's initiatives ensure that separated twins receive comprehensive care tailored to their individual needs.

With inputs from SPA