In Turkey, a team of 60 medical professionals successfully separated twins Mirha and Minal, who were born joined at the head. According to Anadolu, Turkey’s state-run news agency, the complex surgery lasted 14 hours over two stages.
The procedure took place at Bilkent City Hospital in Ankara. It began after Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan responded to a plea from the twins’ family, who could not find suitable treatment in Pakistan. After consulting with Owase Jeelani, a renowned pediatric neurosurgeon based in London, Erdogan agreed to facilitate the treatment in Turkey.
The 11-month-old girls arrived in Ankara in May. They were under strict medical supervision. Dr. Jeelani led the final surgery on July 19, assisted by Turkish doctors Harun Demirci and Hasan Murat Ergani.
Dr. Namik Yasar Ozbek, the hospital’s Pediatric Hematology-Oncology head, emphasized the teamwork. “After the surgery, our neurologists, physical therapists, and neurodevelopmental specialists corrected issues related to their conjoined state,” he explained.
Dr. Ergani reflected on the emotional moment of their successful separation. “We all looked at each other and applauded. It was a memorable moment,” he said. The twins are now doing well. They are using their hands and gaining head control. They will celebrate their first birthdays separately in ten days.
The twins’ parents, Rehan Ali and Nazia Parveen, expressed immense gratitude. They thanked President Erdogan and the medical team. “We are very happy and owe a great debt to all who helped,” said Ali. They hope to thank President Erdogan in person.
