Saudi Arabia’s Conjoined Twins Program has successfully separated Filipino twins Olivia and Gianna Manuel in a major medical achievement that adds to the Kingdom’s distinguished record in treating complex conjoined twin cases.
The operation was carried out under the directives of King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, with the participation of 22 medical specialists as part of the internationally recognized Saudi Conjoined Twins Program.
The two-year-old twins arrived in Riyadh earlier this year after being accepted into the program for specialized treatment.
Rare Condition Involving Chest and Abdomen
Olivia and Gianna were born in April 2024 in the Philippines with a rare condition known as omphalopagus, where twins are joined at the chest and abdomen.
During the procedure, surgeons successfully completed the critical separation stage while continuing the remaining phases of the treatment plan to ensure the twins’ recovery and long-term wellbeing.
The successful operation represents a major step toward allowing the children to live independent and normal lives.
Saudi Expertise Recognized Worldwide
The surgery was led by Dr. Abdullah Al-Rabeeah, head of the Saudi Conjoined Twins Program and one of the world’s leading specialists in the field.
Since 1990, the program has successfully separated 140 pairs of conjoined twins from 27 countries, establishing Saudi Arabia as a global leader in this highly specialized area of medicine.
The program continues to receive patients from around the world as part of the Kingdom’s humanitarian and medical outreach efforts.
Hope for a Normal Childhood
Before the operation, the twins’ mother expressed hope that the surgery would allow her daughters to enjoy a normal childhood and move freely for the first time.
Following the successful separation, the twins will remain under medical supervision in Riyadh as they continue their recovery.
Gianna is expected to undergo an additional heart procedure before the family returns to the Philippines.
Another Humanitarian Achievement
Olivia and Gianna are the fourth pair of Filipino conjoined twins treated under the Saudi Conjoined Twins Program.
The successful operation highlights the Kingdom’s continued commitment to advanced healthcare, humanitarian support, and medical excellence, while reinforcing the program’s reputation as one of the world’s leading centers for conjoined twin treatment and separation.
