Rare Conjoined Twin Girls Successfully Separated in 14-Hour Surgery
In a remarkable medical feat, one-year-old twin girls, conjoined at the head, have been successfully separated during a 14-hour operation led by the renowned British surgeon, Professor Noor ul Owase Jeelani from Great Ormond Street Hospital. This groundbreaking surgery took place in Turkey and utilized cutting-edge mixed reality technology to ensure precision and success.
The twins, named Minal and Mirha, who were born in Pakistan, were craniopagus twins, meaning they were joined at the head, sharing vital blood vessels and brain tissue. The complexity of their condition required an extremely intricate surgical procedure that involved separating the girls while ensuring their safety and well-being.
The operation, which took place at Ankara Bilkent City Hospital on July 19th, was a collaborative effort between Professor Jeelani and a local team of skilled medics. The surgery was conducted in two stages over a period of three months, culminating in a marathon 14-hour final surgery to complete the separation process.
Utilizing mixed reality technology, which combines 3D images with the physical world, Professor Jeelani was able to enhance his view of the twins during the operation. This innovative approach allowed for increased precision and accuracy, ensuring the success of the complex procedure.
Both Minal and Mirha are currently recovering in the hospital and are expected to make full recoveries. Once they return home to Pakistan next month, they are anticipated to lead normal, independent lives, free from the constraints of their conjoined condition.
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The Role of Mixed Reality in Complex Surgeries
Mixed reality (MR) technology played a pivotal role in the successful separation of the conjoined twin girls. By combining 3D images with the physical world, MR enhances a surgeon’s view of the patient, allowing for greater precision and accuracy during complex operations. In the case of Minal and Mirha, MR technology was instrumental in ensuring the safety and success of the intricate surgical procedure. Training and Preparation Through 3D Modeling
Prior to the surgery, a high-definition 3D model of the twins was created to help train medics in Ankara on what to expect in the operating theatre. This 3D model also allowed the UK-based surgical team to prepare and rehearse the surgery, ensuring that they were fully equipped to undertake the challenging separation process. The use of 3D modeling in medical training and preparation has proven to be invaluable in improving surgical outcomes and enhancing patient care. A Lifesaving Mission Supported by Charity
The groundbreaking surgery to separate Minal and Mirha was made possible through the support of Gemini Untwined, a charity founded by Professor Jeelani to raise funds for siblings born joined at the head. The work of this charity has been instrumental in providing life-saving surgeries for conjoined twins, giving them a chance at a healthy and independent future. Through the efforts of organizations like Gemini Untwined, more conjoined twins have the opportunity to lead fulfilling lives free from the limitations of their condition.
Prior to the surgery, a high-definition 3D model of the twins was created to help train medics in Ankara on what to expect in the operating theatre. This 3D model also allowed the UK-based surgical team to prepare and rehearse the surgery, ensuring that they were fully equipped to undertake the challenging separation process. The use of 3D modeling in medical training and preparation has proven to be invaluable in improving surgical outcomes and enhancing patient care.
A Lifesaving Mission Supported by Charity
The groundbreaking surgery to separate Minal and Mirha was made possible through the support of Gemini Untwined, a charity founded by Professor Jeelani to raise funds for siblings born joined at the head. The work of this charity has been instrumental in providing life-saving surgeries for conjoined twins, giving them a chance at a healthy and independent future. Through the efforts of organizations like Gemini Untwined, more conjoined twins have the opportunity to lead fulfilling lives free from the limitations of their condition.
Professor Jeelani expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to give Minal and Mirha a new future where they can live independently and enjoy their childhood. He emphasized the importance of the technology developed for this surgery, stating that it not only makes routine surgeries safer and more effective but also opens up new possibilities for complex procedures like the separation of conjoined twins.
In his illustrious career, Professor Jeelani has led several surgeries involving conjoined twins, showcasing his expertise and dedication to advancing the field of pediatric neurosurgery. His previous successes include the separation of three-year-old boys in Brazil in 2022, one-year-old twin girls in Israel in 2021, and two-year-old twin girls from Pakistan in 2019. Each of these surgeries has been a testament to his skill and commitment to improving the lives of his young patients.
According to Gemini Untwined, the charity founded by Professor Jeelani, approximately one in 60,000 births results in conjoined twins, with only 5% of these cases involving craniopagus twins. The life expectancy of twins who remain conjoined is very low, with about 40% of twins fused at the head being stillborn or dying during labor. The work of organizations like Gemini Untwined is essential in providing hope and support to families facing the challenges of conjoined twins.
In conclusion, the successful separation of Minal and Mirha is a testament to the power of innovation, collaboration, and dedication in the field of pediatric surgery. Through the use of cutting-edge technology, skilled medical teams, and the support of charitable organizations, remarkable achievements like this surgery are made possible. The future looks bright for Minal and Mirha as they embark on a new chapter in their lives, free from the constraints of their conjoined condition and filled with hope and possibilities.