In a new humanitarian gesture embodying the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's leading role in humanitarian and medical work, the Moroccan conjoined twins, Saja and Duha, arrived in Riyadh on Friday evening. Their arrival comes in implementation of the generous directives of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, and His Royal Highness Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Deputy Prime Minister, to study their case and consider the possibility of performing a separation surgery.
Upon their arrival on a medical evacuation plane, the twins, accompanied by their parents, were transferred to King Abdullah Specialist Children's Hospital of the Ministry of National Guard, where they will undergo a series of thorough and comprehensive medical examinations. A multidisciplinary medical team, comprising leading consultants in pediatric surgery, anesthesia, and other related specialties, will carefully assess their health to determine the complexity of their conjoinedness and the extent of any shared organs. Based on the results of these examinations, the medical team will determine the feasibility of separation surgery and the proposed timeline for the procedure.
A proven track record of achievements: The Saudi Program for Separating Conjoined Twins
This case is the latest in a long line of successes achieved by the Saudi Program for Separating Conjoined Twins, which was launched in 1990. For over three decades, the program has gained international renown thanks to its extensive expertise and outstanding results. It has studied more than 135 cases from 25 countries worldwide and successfully performed over 59 complex separation surgeries. The program is led by the world-renowned physician and surgeon, Dr. Abdullah bin Abdulaziz Al-Rabeeah, Advisor to the Royal Court and Supervisor General of the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center, whose name has become synonymous with these delicate surgeries that have given hope and a normal life to dozens of children and their families.
Humanitarian and diplomatic importance
The importance of these initiatives extends beyond the medical field, encompassing profound humanitarian and diplomatic dimensions. By hosting and treating complex cases from around the world free of charge, the Kingdom reaffirms its global humanitarian mission and strengthens its position as a leading force in the field of "medical diplomacy." These initiatives also contribute to consolidating fraternal relations between the Kingdom and its sisterly and friendly nations, including the Kingdom of Morocco, and showcase the shining example of international cooperation at its highest level. The world eagerly awaits the success of the Saudi medical team's efforts, hoping that the two girls, Saja and Duha, will be able to live independent and normal lives.
