Conjoined Twins Separated in Landmark Surgery

Surgeons have successfully separated infant twin sisters who were born conjoined at the head. The complex procedure took place in February 2025 at SSM Health Cardinal Glennon Children's Hospital in St. Louis, Missouri, involving a multidisciplinary team of specialists. The twins, Hiyab and Wuhbto, who traveled from Ethiopia in March 2025, are now in recovery and rehabilitation. This surgery, which lasted more than 24 hours, is a critical intervention that provides the twins with opportunities previously impossible.

Both Hiyab and Wuhbto are undergoing rehabilitative services to help them achieve milestones such as sitting upright, and eventually, standing and walking. They are also working on eating, speaking, and socializing. Conjoined twins are rare, occurring in approximately 1 in 50,000 to 100,000 live births, with girls being conjoined more often than boys. The successful separation was a collaborative effort involving multiple organizations and hospitals, highlighting a significant global health initiative.