Conjoined twins return home after surgery in Saudi Arabia
38 doctors, 14 hours, 9 stages: twins survive complex separation in Riyadh
By Abdullahi Yusuf
Two-year-old Nigerian conjoined twins, Hassana and Husaina, who were successfully separated in Saudi Arabia, returned to Nigeria on Thursday and were received to an emotional welcome at the Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport, Kano.
The twins, joined at the lower abdomen, pelvis and spine, had travelled to Riyadh in October 2023 where they underwent months of medical evaluations before being scheduled for the high-risk procedure at the King Abdullah Specialist Children’s Hospital, King Abdulaziz Medical City.
The complex operation, carried out in nine stages and lasting about 14 hours, was directed by the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al-Saud, and His Royal Highness, Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Crown Prince and Prime Minister. A 38-member team of consultants and specialists in pediatric surgery, neurosurgery, orthopaedics, urology, anaesthesia and plastic surgery successfully completed the separation.
Speaking at the airport, the Consul-General of Saudi Arabia in Kano, Khalil Ahmed Al-Admawi, described the success as “a clear demonstration of the Kingdom’s dedication to humanitarian service and international cooperation.” He noted that through the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Centre, Saudi Arabia would continue to extend medical assistance to countries in need, including Nigeria, with which it enjoys long-standing ties.
The separation of Hassana and Husaina is the 65th successful surgery performed under the Saudi Siamese Twins Separation Program. Since its launch 35 years ago, the initiative has reviewed 150 cases of conjoined twins from 25 countries, making it one of the world’s most prominent medical humanitarian projects.
The parents of the twins expressed gratitude to the Saudi authorities, the medical team, and the Nigerian community in Riyadh who supported them throughout the process.
Medical experts said the successful outcome further highlights Saudi Arabia’s growing expertise in pediatric surgery, while also providing hope to families across the world facing similar challenges.
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