Saudi Gazette report
Riyadh — The medical and surgical team of the Saudi Conjoined Twins Program is successful in separating Eritrean conjoined twins Asma and Someya, who were joined at the head, at King Abdullah Specialist Children’s Hospital in Riyadh on Wednesday. This is in line with the directives of Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman and Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman.
King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Centre (KSrelief) Supervisor General and head of the medical team Dr. Abdullah Al-Rabeeah said the complex procedure, which lasted for 15 and a half hours, was carried out by a dedicated team of 36 consultants and specialists from multiple disciplines. The team employed neuronavigational technology and surgical microscopy to ensure precise planning and uphold the highest safety standards.
He said that this operation marks the 64th separation performed under the Saudi Conjoined Twins Program, which has treated over 149 cases from 27 countries over the past 35 years. Over the years, it has achieved outstanding medical successes, showcasing the advanced capabilities and professionalism of Saudi Arabia's healthcare sector and its medical teams.
Consultant pediatric neurosurgeon and head of the Pediatric Neurosurgery Dr. Moutasem Azzubi said that the twins underwent a comprehensive evaluation, which revealed the fusion of skull bones, brain membranes, veins, and certain arteries. The separation was conducted in stages, beginning with an initial surgical procedure followed by three interventional radiology procedures to block shared arteries and veins. The pediatric plastic surgery team inserted tissue expanders under the skin to stretch it over several months and allow sufficient skin coverage after the separation.
The twins' family expressed their sincere gratitude to the Saudi leadership for making this life-saving procedure possible and ensuring their children received the best medical care. They also commended the Kingdom’s humanitarian efforts and thanked the generous hospitality they received during their stay in Saudi Arabia
