Separation of Filipino conjoined twins in Riyadh: A new Saudi medical achievement
New Saudi medical achievement
In a new medical and humanitarian achievement added to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's distinguished record, the medical and surgical team at King Abdullah Specialist Children's Hospital in Riyadh began the separation surgery this morning for Filipino conjoined twins, Clea and Maurice Ann, who were joined at the head. This complex operation 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, Prime Minister, embodying the Kingdom's leading role in global humanitarian work.
The Saudi Program for Separating Twins: A Journey Full of Giving
This operation is the latest in a series of successes for the Saudi Program for Separating Conjoined Twins, which was launched in 1990 and has become a landmark internationally. For over three decades, the program, led by Dr. Abdullah bin Abdulaziz Al-Rabeeah, Advisor to the Royal Court and Supervisor General of the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center, has given hope to hundreds of families around the world. To date, the program has studied and evaluated 157 cases from 28 countries across five continents, and the operation involving the Filipino twins marks the 70th such procedure, reflecting the extensive experience and high level of expertise of the Saudi medical team.
Unprecedented medical challenges
Dr. Abdullah Al-Rabeeah described the case of twins Clea and Maurice Anne as one of the most complex cases of conjoined twin separation worldwide. This complexity stems from several intricate medical factors, most notably the complex angle at the head where the twins are joined, extensive sharing of cerebral venous sinuses, and overlapping brain tissue. The case is further complicated by Clea's heart failure and severe kidney atrophy with complete renal failure, significantly increasing the surgical risks. The medical team explained that the success rate of the operation is no more than 50%, with a 60% chance of severe neurological complications that could lead to disability.
A precise surgical plan involving 30 specialists
To address these challenges, the surgical team devised a meticulous five-stage plan for the operation, which is expected to last approximately 24 continuous hours. This surgical marathon involves a comprehensive team of 30 consultants, specialists, nurses, and technicians across multiple disciplines, including pediatric neurosurgery, anesthesia, intensive care, plastic surgery, and advanced radiology. All details of the treatment plan and potential risks were explained to the twins' parents, who expressed their understanding and complete confidence in the Saudi medical team.
Humanitarian and diplomatic dimensions
This operation transcends its medical significance, representing a humanitarian message from the Kingdom to the world and reinforcing its position as a leading force in medical diplomacy. Hosting and treating the Filipino twins at the state's expense not only reflects the remarkable medical advancements in Saudi Arabia but also underscores the depth of bilateral relations between the Kingdom and the Philippines. This humanitarian act further highlights the pivotal role of the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center in providing assistance to those in need around the world, regardless of race or religion, and solidifies the Kingdom's image as a beacon of hope and generosity.
