Health

Twin Sisters Conjoined at the Head Undergo Successful Separation Surgery

AI SUMMARY

Infant twin sisters from Ethiopia born conjoined at the head were successfully separated during a 24-hour surgery in Missouri and are now recovering.

Infant twin sisters Hiyab and Wuhbto, born conjoined at the head, were successfully separated earlier this year.
The 24-hour cranial separation surgery took place on February 24-25 at SSM Health Cardinal Glennon Children's Hospital in St. Louis, Missouri.
The twins traveled from Ethiopia to the United States in March 2025 to prepare for the procedure and turned two in March following the surgery.
Dr. Joanna Kemp served as the head neurological surgeon for the complex multi-disciplinary operation.
Hiyab and Wuhbto are currently receiving rehabilitative and intensive care services at Ranken Jordan Pediatric Bridge Hospital in Maryland Heights, Missouri.
The twins are now learning to sit upright, stand, walk, eat, speak, and socialize independently.
StatPearls estimates that conjoined twins occur in roughly one out of every 50,000 to 100,000 live births, happening about three times as often in girls.
Partners involved in the procedure included SSM Health, Ranken Jordan, World Pediatrics, Lola Children's Home in Ethiopia, Ronald McDonald House of Charities, and Ethiopian Airlines.