Turkish Surgeons Successfully Separate Conjoined Pakistani Twins After 14-Hour Operation
.png)
Pakistani twins Mirha and Minal, born with their heads fused, were successfully separated by a team of 60 medical experts in Turkey after a 14-hour, two-phase surgery, according to the state-run Anadolu news agency. The operation took place at Bilkent City Hospital in Ankara, following Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's intervention, as the family could not find appropriate treatment in Pakistan.
After being contacted by renowned London-based pediatric neurosurgeon Owase Jeelani, President Erdogan assured him that the twins' treatment would be provided in Turkey, according to Anadolu.
The 11-month-old twin girls arrived in Ankara in May, where they were placed under close medical supervision. The final 14-hour surgery took place on July 19, led by Dr. Jeelani alongside Turkish doctors Dr. Harun Demirci and Dr. Hasan Murat Ergani.
=========
Highlighting the collaboration involved, Namik Yasar Ozbek, head of the Department of Pediatric Hematology-Oncology, told the Turkish news agency, "The babies had difficulty sitting and using their hands due to their conjoined state. Post-surgery, our neurologists, physical therapists, and neurodevelopmental specialists helped resolve these issues."
Ozbek added, "The babies are now doing well, starting to use their hands and arms, and gaining control of their heads. In 10 days, they will celebrate their first birthdays separately."
Dr. Ergani, part of the surgical team led by Dr. Jeelani, shared the emotional experience, saying, "Seeing the babies healthy now brings immense joy. When we successfully separated them, the entire team looked at each other and applauded. It was one of the most unforgettable moments of my life."
=======
The twins' parents, Rehan Ali and Nazia Parveen, expressed deep gratitude to President Erdogan, the medical team, and all those involved in their daughters' treatment. "We are extremely happy and indebted to everyone who contributed," said the father, adding that they hope to meet Erdogan personally to thank him.
