Pakistani twins, Mirha and Minal, who were born with their heads fused, have been successfully separated following a 14-hour surgery in Turkey. The procedure, carried out in two phases, involved a team of 60 medical professionals, according to Turkey’s state-run Anadolu news agency.
The surgery took place at Bilkent City Hospital in Ankara after Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan responded to the family’s plea for help, as they were unable to find suitable treatment in Pakistan.
Renowned London-based pediatric neurosurgeon Owase Jeelani had contacted Erdogan, who then assured that the treatment would be conducted in Turkey, as per Anadolu.
The 11-month-old twins were flown to Ankara in May and placed under close medical supervision. On July 19, the final surgery was performed by a team led by Dr. Jeelani, along with Turkish surgeons Dr. Harun Demirci and Dr. Hasan Murat Ergani.
Highlighting the collaboration behind the procedure, Namik Yasar Ozbek, head of the Department of Pediatric Hematology-Oncology, said, “Due to their conjoined condition, the babies had difficulties with sitting and hand movements.”
“After the surgery, our neurologists, physical therapists, and neurodevelopmental specialists helped address these challenges,” Ozbek added.
“The twins are now doing remarkably well, gaining control of their hands, arms, and head. In 10 days, they will celebrate their first birthdays separately,” he shared.
Dr. Ergani, part of the surgical team, expressed his joy: “When we successfully separated them, the entire team applauded—it was an unforgettable moment.”
The twins’ parents, Rehan Ali and Nazia Parveen, expressed deep gratitude to President Erdogan, the medical team, and all who contributed. “We are very happy and indebted to everyone involved,” said the father, adding that they hope to personally thank Erdogan.
