The Separation of Conjoined Twins: The Miraculous Story of Elizabeth and Mary

In July last year, Elizabeth and Mary were born in Cameroon, conjoined at the pelvis. These two adorable babies not only shared a physical connection but also many aspects of their bodily systems. From the spinal cord and parts of the spine to the urinary, digestive, urogenital systems, and neurovascular structures, they were bound together in a complex way.

Their family never gave up hope for a better life for Elizabeth and Mary and sought medical assistance. After an extensive evaluation, the twins were brought to Turkey at the age of 9 months, thanks to an initiative by the Presidency of Cameroon, and admitted to Acıbadem Altunizade Hospital.

A Challenging Journey: The Preparation Process

The separation of the twins required hundreds of hours of examination, diagnosis, and meticulous planning. During this process, many healthcare professionals who were experts in their fields were involved. The team, led by Pediatric Surgeon Prof. Dr. Burak Tander, Pediatric Neurosurgeon Prof. Dr. Memet Özek, Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeon Prof. Dr. Hakan Ağır, Anesthesiology Specialist Assoc. Prof. Serpil Ustalar Özgen, and Pediatric Intensive Care Specialist Prof. Dr. Agop Çıtak, worked tirelessly on the preparations. Experts from various specialties such as urology, radiology, physical therapy, and cardiovascular surgery also played a vital role in this comprehensive preparation phase.

After approximately 7 months of rigorous preparation, everything was set for the separation surgery. This stage was not only physically demanding but also emotionally and psychologically challenging for their family.

A 27-Hour Miracle Surgery

When the day of the surgery arrived, the medical team operated with full coordination and dedication. The complex 27-hour procedure involved many carefully planned stages, including the separation of the pelvis, spinal cord, and neurovascular structures. Each step was executed with great precision by the surgeons and healthcare professionals.

Finally, the operation was a success, and Elizabeth and Mary emerged as two physically independent individuals. Now 16 months old, the twins celebrated the joy of having their own separate bodies before being discharged from the hospital.

A New Life

Following the separation, Elizabeth and Mary entered a period of physical and emotional recovery. After a long but hopeful treatment journey in Turkey, they began a new chapter in life. They are now growing up as two little girls who can move independently and explore their own world.

This story is not only a triumph for Elizabeth and Mary but also a testament to the success of the entire medical team who brought hope and happiness to their lives. Through the surgery and the multidisciplinary care that followed, these twins opened the doors to a new life.