Saudi Medical Experts Start Surgery To Separate Nigerian Conjoined Twins

In a significant medical endeavor, a Saudi medical and surgical team initiated the complex process of separating Nigerian conjoined twins Hassana and Hasina. This operation, taking place at King Abdullah Specialist Children's Hospital within King Abdulaziz Medical City in Riyadh, marks a pivotal moment in the realm of pediatric surgery. The procedure commenced on Thursday morning, under the guidance and directives of Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al-Saud and His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al-Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister.

The twins arrived in Riyadh on October 31, 2023, and subsequent examinations revealed that they share critical areas including the lower abdomen, pelvis, lower spine, and lower spinal nerves. The surgery is planned to unfold in nine stages over an estimated duration of 14 hours. A comprehensive team comprising 38 consultants, specialists, technicians, and nursing staff across various specialties such as anesthesia, pediatric surgery, urology, orthopedics, plastic surgery, and pediatric neurosurgery are actively participating in this operation.

Dr. Abdullah Al Rabeeah, Advisor at the Royal Court, Supervisor General of the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center (KSrelief), and head of the medical team overseeing this operation, has stated that the success rate of this intricate procedure stands at 70%. This operation is notably the 60th of its kind performed under the auspices of the Saudi program for separating Siamese twins. Over a span of 34 years, this commendable program has extended its services to 135 conjoined twins from 25 different countries.

Expressing his gratitude towards the Saudi leadership for their unwavering support of this humanitarian program, Dr. Al Rabeeah highlighted the kingdom's commitment to providing aid and medical expertise on a global scale. This operation not only underscores Saudi Arabia's advanced capabilities in healthcare but also its humanitarian outreach beyond its borders.

The successful separation of Hassana and Hasina would add another milestone to the program's history, demonstrating Saudi Arabia's leading role in specialized medical fields. The kingdom continues to leverage its resources and expertise to make significant contributions to global health initiatives.

With inputs from SPA