Limpopo’s healthcare community is celebrating a major medical milestone after a team of doctors successfully separated conjoined twin boys during a complex surgery at Mankweng Hospital outside Polokwane.
The twins, born on January 28 to a 29-year-old mother, were joined at the abdomen when they arrived at the hospital. Medical staff discovered the condition during labour at Maphutha Malatjie Hospital in Namakgale and immediately arranged for the mother to be transferred to Mankweng Hospital for specialised care.
On Tuesday morning, a multidisciplinary team led by Professor Nyaweleni Tshifularo carried out the delicate procedure, which lasted around eight hours. The operation began at approximately 7:45 am and concluded shortly after 3 pm.
According to Tshifularo, the surgery presented significant challenges because the twins were joined at the trunk and shared certain internal organs. Despite the complexity, the team successfully separated the babies.
“This is a proud moment for the province, the country and the entire medical team,” Tshifularo said. “The twins are alive and stable, and their mother is extremely grateful and relieved.”
Before the procedure began, the medical team gathered for a pastoral support session to prepare for the demanding surgery ahead.
Following the operation, the babies were moved to the neonatal intensive care unit, where they remain under close monitoring. They are currently intubated and receiving ventilatory support as part of their recovery.
Limpopo Premier Dr Phophi Ramathuba hailed the surgery as a historic achievement for the province’s public healthcare system. She commended the swift action of medical staff at both hospitals, saying their quick diagnosis and transfer played a crucial role in the outcome.
“When the mother arrived with no prior diagnosis, doctors and midwives quickly detected the condition through ultrasound and arranged an urgent transfer,” Ramathuba said. “Mankweng Hospital then acted rapidly to deliver the babies within an hour of arrival.”
She added that the successful operation highlights the growing capability of healthcare facilities outside major metropolitan centres.
“This moment represents more than a medical success,” Ramathuba said. “It demonstrates the determination, skill and potential within our rural healthcare system. Achievements like this give hope to communities and show that world-class care can be delivered even in rural hospitals.”
Health officials say the twins will remain under specialist care while doctors continue to monitor their recovery in the coming days.
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