Rare conjoined twin girls have been successfully separated in a groundbreaking operation led by a British surgeon. Minal and Mirha, who were born fused at the head, underwent a two-stage procedure over three months. The one-year-old twins, originally from Pakistan, underwent a 14-hour surgery at Ankara Bilkent City Hospital on July 19, with Professor Noor ul Owase Jeelani, a paediatric neurosurgeon from London’s Great Ormond Street Hospital, leading the operation.
The separation was particularly challenging for the medical team as the twins were joined at the front of their heads, sharing vital blood vessels and brain tissue. The surgery was a major milestone in the medical field, as it was aided by virtual reality technology. Using Mixed Reality technology, the surgeons combined 3D images, medical scans, and real-world data to meticulously plan and rehearse the intricate procedure.
Currently, Minal and Mirha are still recuperating in the Turkish hospital where the surgery took place. However, they are expected to make a full recovery. Professor Jeelani, who also founded the charity Gemini Untwined, expressed optimism about the twins’ progress, stating that they should be able to return home in a few weeks. He emphasised the importance of providing the girls with a new future where they can live independently and enjoy their childhood.
This marks the 8th separation involving brain connections undertaken by the charity, with Professor Jeelani being recognised globally for his expertise in such complex procedures. He credited the NHS and UCL for indirectly contributing to the success of this operation, highlighting the collaborative nature of sharing knowledge and skills for the benefit of patients worldwide.
The achievement of separating the conjoined twins signifies a remarkable advancement in medical science and technology. The use of virtual reality to enhance surgical precision and outcomes demonstrates the innovative approaches being utilised in modern healthcare. The successful outcome of this challenging procedure offers hope and inspiration to other families facing similar medical conditions.
As Minal and Mirha continue their recovery journey, their story serves as a testament to the dedication and expertise of medical professionals who strive to push the boundaries of what is possible in the field of paediatric neurosurgery. This significant achievement reinforces the importance of collaboration, innovation, and compassion in delivering life-changing medical interventions for patients in need.