Turkish doctors have successfully separated twin girls from Pakistan, Mirha and Minal, who were conjoined at the skull. The operation took 14 hours and was performed in two stages, according to the state-run Anadolu news agency.
The surgery took place at Bilkent City Hospital in Ankara after Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan responded to the family’s request for help, as they could not find suitable treatment in Pakistan.
The family reached out to renowned pediatric neurosurgeon Owase Jeelani, who assured President Erdogan that the twins would receive treatment in Turkey. The 11-month-old girls arrived in Turkey in May and were kept under close medical care.
The final 14-hour surgery occurred on July 19, led by Dr. Jeelani and supported by Turkish doctors Dr. Harun Demirci and Dr. Hasan Murat Ergani.
Namik Yasar Ozbek, head of the Department of Pediatric Hematology-Oncology at the hospital, highlighted the teamwork involved in the operation. He explained that the twins had difficulties with sitting and hand movements because they were conjoined. After the surgery, a team of neurologists, physical therapists, and neurodevelopmental specialists worked to address these issues.
Ozbek reported that the twins are now doing well, starting to use their hands and arms, and gaining head control. In just 10 days, they will celebrate their first birthdays separately.
The twins’ parents, Rehan Ali and Nazia Parveen, expressed deep gratitude to President Erdogan and the medical team for their help.
