Saudi Arabia Achieves Medical Milestone: Conjoined Twins Successfully Separated After 15.5-Hour Surgery
A few years ago, the idea of separating conjoined twins—especially those joined at the head—was considered nearly impossible. Such complex surgeries involved significant risks and often ended in failure. But today, with remarkable progress in medical science, highly skilled doctors, and advanced technology, miracles are happening in operating rooms around the world. One such miracle recently took place in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.Twins
Twin sisters Asma and Someya, born in Eritrea and joined at the head, have been successfully separated after a groundbreaking surgery that lasted 15.5 hours. This life-changing operation took place at King Abdullah Specialist Children’s Hospital and marked the 64th successful conjoined twin separation under the Saudi Conjoined Twins Program.Twins
A Complex and Delicate Condition
Asma and Someya were born with one of the rarest and most complicated forms of conjoining—craniopagus, a condition where twins are joined at the head. This type of conjoining happens in less than 2% of all conjoined twin cases. It presents enormous challenges for surgeons because the brain, blood vessels, and skulls are often shared. Separating such twins requires extreme precision, detailed planning, and the use of the latest medical technology.Twins
When the twins were brought to Saudi Arabia, a team of doctors, led by renowned pediatric surgeon Dr. Abdullah Al Rabeeah, took on the responsibility of making the impossible possible. Dr. Al Rabeeah is well-known for leading several successful conjoined twin separations and has become a symbol of hope for many families worldwide.Twins
Months of Preparation and Teamwork
Before the actual surgery, the medical team spent several months preparing. This included conducting in-depth medical tests, 3D imaging, and virtual planning. The team also used advanced techniques to gradually expand the skin on the twins’ heads, which would later be essential for closing their skulls after separation.
The process was handled with utmost care to ensure the twins’ safety. Every possible complication was considered, and backup plans were created. The goal was not only to separate the twins but to give both of them the best possible chance of living healthy, independent lives.
The preparation also involved emotional support for the twins and their family. Specialists in child psychology and counseling worked with the family to help them understand the risks and outcomes. It was a true example of medical care with compassion.Twins
The Day of the Surgery
The 15.5-hour operation was conducted by a team of 36 skilled medical professionals, including neurosurgeons, plastic surgeons, anesthesiologists, nurses, and technicians. The surgery was divided into several stages:
-
Anesthesia and Initial Incisions – Ensuring the twins were completely stable.
-
Separation of Shared Blood Vessels and Brain Tissues – The most challenging phase, handled with the help of neuronavigation technology.
-
Skull Reconstruction – Using custom 3D models and surgical microscopes.
-
Skin Closure and Recovery Setup – The expanded skin was used to cover their heads safely and reduce the risk of infection.
Advanced tools like surgical microscopes and neuronavigation systems made it possible to perform the procedure with precision. These technologies helped doctors view detailed images of the twins’ brains and blood vessels in real-time, allowing them to avoid dangerous mistakes.
A Triumph for Medical Science and Humanity
By the end of the long operation, Asma and Someya were successfully separated. The surgical team erupted in joy, knowing they had not only performed a medical miracle but also transformed two lives forever. The twins were taken to the intensive care unit for close monitoring, where their condition remained stable.
The success of this surgery would not have been possible without the support of King Salman bin Abdulaziz and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, who have shown strong commitment to humanitarian healthcare. Their continued backing of the Saudi Conjoined Twins Program reflects Saudi Arabia’s vision of becoming a global leader in advanced medical services.Twins
This program, which began over three decades ago, has helped families from 23 different countries. It is one of the most respected humanitarian medical initiatives in the world, offering free treatment to children born with this rare condition.
A New Life for Asma and Someya
For Asma and Someya, this successful operation means much more than a medical achievement—it means the beginning of a new life. They now have the chance to grow up separately, explore their own identities, and experience life independently.
Although they will continue to receive care and rehabilitation, the hardest part is over. With the right physical therapy, emotional support, and follow-up treatment, they are expected to live healthy and fulfilling lives.
Their story has already inspired many around the globe and brought attention to the incredible work being done in Saudi Arabia’s healthcare sector.
See More:
Saudi Arabia’s Role in Global Healthcare
This success also sends a strong message to the world—Saudi Arabia is not just investing in healthcare for its own people but also extending its services to those in need from all corners of the globe.
The country’s medical institutions are now known for handling some of the most complicated surgeries and rare medical cases. Programs like this reflect the Kingdom’s growing role in global humanitarian efforts, especially in medicine.
With experienced professionals like Dr. Abdullah Al Rabeeah leading the way, Saudi Arabia continues to show that science, empathy, and teamwork can overcome even the most difficult medical challenges.
Final Thoughts
The successful separation of Eritrean twins Asma and Someya is more than a medical triumph. It’s a heartwarming story of hope, faith, and human effort. It proves that with dedication, advanced technology, and international cooperation, what once seemed impossible can now be achieved.Twins
This surgery has opened the doors to a better life for the twins and has given hope to thousands of families around the world facing similar challenges. It also stands as a shining example of how nations can use their resources, not just for progress, but for the greater good of humanity.
