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One Twin Survives Grueling Separation in Sydney
9 Dec, 2025
Summary
- One of two conjoined twins from PNG died after complex Sydney surgery.
- The twins were joined at the lower abdomen and shared organs.
- Australia facilitated the twins' swift transfer and covered medical bills.
A critical mission to separate conjoined twins from Papua New Guinea concluded with sorrow, as one twin passed away following intricate surgery in Sydney. Tom and Sawong, born in a remote highlands village two months prior, required urgent separation, prompting an international effort to transfer them to Sydney Children's Hospital.
Surgeons undertook a seven-hour operation to separate the twins, who were joined at the lower abdomen and shared vital organs. Despite the efforts, Tom, the smaller twin with a congenital heart defect, did not survive the procedure. His brother, Sawong, successfully underwent the separation and is currently in intensive care, closely monitored by medical staff.
The Australian government facilitated the twins' rapid transfer to Sydney, with Papua New Guinea's Prime Minister James Marape confirming that Australia also assured coverage of the medical expenses. Family representatives expressed acceptance of the outcome, highlighting the profound emotional journey and celebrating Sawong's survival.
