Ethiopian craniopagus twins successfully separated after 24-hour surgery in Missouri
Two Ethiopian twins joined at the head were separated in a 24-hour operation at SSM Health Cardinal Glennon Children’s Hospital.
Hiyab and Wuhbto, Ethiopian sisters conjoined at the crown of their skulls, were flown to St. Louis with help from Ronald McDonald House Charities and Ethiopian Airlines. A multidisciplinary team spent 300 hours preparing for the operation, which lasted roughly 24 hours from Feb. 24 to Feb. 25 at SSM Health Cardinal Glennon Children’s Hospital. Dr. Andrew J. White highlighted the need for extreme precision and coordination across many specialties.
Wuhbto completed a cranioplasty during the procedure, and Hiyab is scheduled for an identical surgery. About 60 clinicians and partner organizations support the twins’ ongoing rehabilitation and individualized therapy.
Why it matters
The successful separation showcases advanced surgical collaboration and offers hope for future treatment of rare conjoined twins.
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