In a groundbreaking medical achievement, the University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital (UITH) has successfully separated conjoined twins in a complex and highly delicate procedure. The operation, which took place on February 16, 2025, is being hailed as a significant milestone in Nigerian medical history.
The conjoined twins, a boy and a girl, were born sharing several vital organs, making their separation a highly challenging task. The twins, who were admitted to UITH several months ago for assessment, underwent a series of pre-surgical procedures to evaluate their condition and prepare for the separation.
The surgical team, led by renowned pediatric surgeons and supported by a team of medical experts, worked tirelessly for several hours to ensure the safety and well-being of both babies during the separation. According to hospital sources, the procedure was successful, and both twins are now stable and recovering in the hospital's neonatal intensive care unit (NICU).
Professor Adeola Adebayo, the lead surgeon of the team, expressed his pride in the successful operation, stating, "This is a remarkable achievement not only for the medical team but also for the country. The complexities of conjoined twins require extensive preparation and expertise, and we are thrilled with the outcome."
The separation of conjoined twins is considered one of the most intricate surgical procedures in medicine, often requiring multidisciplinary collaboration. The UITH medical team, in partnership with other specialists, has been commended for their meticulous planning and skill in executing the procedure.
The parents of the twins, who have been anxiously waiting for the operation, expressed their gratitude to the hospital staff and medical team for their dedication and support throughout the process.
Health experts have also praised the University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital for its role in advancing medical care in Nigeria. The success of this separation has put the hospital on the map as a leading institution in complex pediatric surgeries, providing hope for many families facing similar challenges.
The twins will continue to receive care and monitoring in the NICU as they recover from the surgery. Their progress will be closely monitored by medical professionals in the coming weeks to ensure they continue to thrive following the life-changing procedure.
