What does conjoined twins mean?
Conjoined twins are two babies who are born physically connected to each other.
Though many conjoined twins are not alive when born (stillborn) or die shortly after birth, advances in surgery and technology have improved survival rates. Some surviving conjoined twins can be surgically separated.
The success of surgery depends on where the twins are joined and how many and which organs are shared, as well as the experience and skill of the surgical team.
There are no specific signs or symptoms that indicate a conjoined twin pregnancy. Conjoined twins can be diagnosed early in the pregnancy using standard ultrasound.
Conjoined twins may be joined at any of these sites:
- Chest.
- Abdomen.
- Spine.
- Pelvis.
- Trunk.
- Head.
- Head and chest.
Because conjoined twins are so rare, and the cause isn't clear, it's unknown what might make some couples more likely to have conjoined twins.
Pregnancy with conjoined twins is complex and greatly increases the risk of serious complications. When conjoined twins are expected, the family and the health care team need to discuss in detail the possible complications and how to prepare for them.
Source:
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/conjoined-twins/symptoms-causes/syc-20353910