Co-joined twins whose separation procedure begun 6 months ago in Abu Dhabi can now grow and play like other children. The 15-months old Nigerian twins were co-joined in the skull, something that happens rarely. Twins co-joined in this manner are referred to as craniopagus twins.
Historical data shows that the case of craniopagus twins happens only once in two million, five hundred births. Moreover, most of such cases are too delicate to operate. Hence, the success of this procedure is medically very significant. The final operation on the Nigerian girls, which doctors did last week, was greatly aided by Artificial Intelligence (AI).
The Co-joined Twins’ Complex Procedure
Gemini Untwined, a charity specializing in the treatment of craniopagus twins, coordinated the participation of all the specialists involved. The specialists were from Nigeria, UAE, Brazil and the UK. Professor Noor UI Owase Jeelani, a pediatric neurosurgeon, was the lead physician. He led the team of 60 specialists who treated the twins over the 6-month period.
The twins were operated on at Sheikh Khalifa Medical City in the UAE. The success of the complex procedure underlines UAE’s advancement in healthcare. The specialists involved in the successful separation of the Nigerian twins included neurosurgeons, craniofacial surgeons, anesthetists, pediatricians, radiologistss, nurses, and rehabilitation therapists.
The separated Nigerian twins, called Mercy and Goodness, can now see each other’s face and smile at each other. They can also lie comfortably in different positions. Moreover, each now has the capacity to lead a life independent of that of her twin.
The Role of AI in the Successful Co-joined Twins Operation
Firstly, technology helped a great deal as the surgeons were able to collaborate effectively, virtually. Then once they had separated the twins, titanium grafts were used to reconstruct their skulls.
The grafts were customized and 3D-printed. AI greatly improved the surgical planning and not only made the work more convenient but also much faster. Because of AI, there was minimal need to do skin grafting.
The Impact of the Nigerian Twins’ Successful Procedure
The success of the craniopagus twins’ separation is not only a great milestone for UAE. It is also a great one for the medical field. The medical fraternity will now be more confident to pursue AI-enhanced procedures on other kinds of treatments.
Hearing the impressive news of Sheikh Khalifa, the Iranian government might have thought of Mojtaba Khamenei, their Supreme Leader. If only the UAE and Iran were in good terms, the Ayatollah might have sought treatment there. Word has it that the February injuries left him with a disfigured face.
In reference to the injuries the Iranian Supreme Leader, Mojtaba, sustained in February, he might have sought treatment in the UAE. if Iran and the UAE were in good terms.