Eritrean twins separated after 15-hour surgery at Saudi children’s hospital

Dubai: Eritrean conjoined twins Asma and Someya, who were born joined at the head, have been successfully separated by a Saudi medical and surgical team in a landmark operation performed at King Abdullah Specialist Children’s Hospital in Riyadh.

The complex procedure, lasting 15 and a half hours, involved 36 consultants and specialists across multiple disciplines and was carried out under the directives of King Salman bin Abdulaziz and Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman. It is the 64th successful separation conducted under Saudi Arabia’s internationally recognized Conjoined Twins Program.

Dr. Abdullah Al Rabeeah, Supervisor General of the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Centre (KSrelief) and head of the surgical team, said that this program has now reviewed 149 cases from 27 countries over the past 35 years. “Today’s achievement showcases Saudi Arabia’s world-class healthcare capabilities and the dedication of its medical professionals.”

The procedure required cutting-edge medical technologies, including neuronavigational tools and surgical microscopy to ensure accuracy and uphold safety. According to Dr. Moutasem Azzubi, consultant pediatric neurosurgeon and head of Pediatric Neurosurgery, the twins underwent extensive evaluation which confirmed the fusion of skull bones, brain membranes, and key vascular structures. The separation was conducted in carefully staged phases, including three interventional radiology procedures to block shared arteries and veins.

In preparation for the final surgery, the pediatric plastic surgery team inserted tissue expanders months in advance to gradually stretch the skin, ensuring adequate coverage post-separation.

The family of the twins expressed their heartfelt gratitude to the Saudi leadership and medical team for their care and generosity. “We are thankful for the outstanding treatment and hospitality we received in the Kingdom,” the family said, praising Saudi Arabia’s humanitarian outreach and commitment to saving lives beyond its borders.

Huda Ata is an independent writer based in the UAE