Separation Surgery For Syrian Conjoined Twins Commences Under Royal Directives In Riyadh

The Saudi Conjoined Twins Programme, under the guidance of King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, initiated the separation of Syrian twins Celine and Eleen Abdulmoneim Alshibli. The procedure took place at King Abdullah Specialist Children’s Hospital in Riyadh. Dr. Abdullah Al Rabeeah, who leads the medical team, confirmed this to the Saudi Press Agency.

Dr. Al Rabeeah shared that the twins' family are refugees living in Lebanon. Their mother gave birth to triplets in Beirut, including two conjoined girls and a healthy boy. The twins are now one year and five months old, weighing a combined 14 kilograms.

The twins were brought to Saudi Arabia through efforts by the ministries of foreign affairs and defense. They were admitted to KASCH for thorough examinations. It was found that they are joined at the lower chest and abdomen, sharing a pericardium and liver, with potential intestinal connections.

The surgery is anticipated to last around nine hours, divided into six stages. A team of 24 consultants and specialists will perform the operation, supported by nursing and technical staff. Specialties involved include anesthesia, pediatric surgery, plastic surgery, among others.

This marks the fourth separation surgery for Syrian conjoined twins by this programme. Over 35 years, the team has evaluated 150 cases globally and successfully separated 65 pairs from 27 countries as part of their ongoing efforts.

Dr. Al Rabeeah emphasized the programme's commitment to helping conjoined twins worldwide. The team's expertise has grown significantly over decades, making them leaders in this complex field of medicine.

The operation's success would not only change Celine and Eleen's lives but also highlight Saudi Arabia's dedication to humanitarian aid through advanced medical interventions.

With inputs from SPA