(DDM) – Fifteen-month-old twins Ally and El, who were born conjoined at the pelvis, have been successfully separated in a complex 18-hour surgery at Seattle Children’s Hospital.
Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) learned that the operation, conducted on February 28, 2025, involved over 30 medical professionals and months of meticulous preparation.
The surgeons carefully separated the twins’ gastrointestinal, gynecologic, and urologic systems, a process described by the hospital as “highly complex and delicate.”
Dr. Caitlin A. Smith, co-director of the reconstructive pelvic medicine program, stated that twins joined at the pelvis are exceptionally rare, making Ally and El’s case particularly challenging.
She added that the surgery required an extraordinary level of coordination and teamwork, and that the relief following the successful separation was immense.
The twins were discharged in late May and have been receiving ongoing care at home, including support from physical therapists and speech specialists to aid their recovery.
Doctors noted that while the girls initially faced movement restrictions, they are now showing strong progress in mobility and daily activities.
Their mother, Sam, described witnessing their development as “incredible,” expressing joy at seeing them crawl quickly, learn new words, and demonstrate distinct personalities.
According to the Cleveland Clinic, conjoined twins occur in only one in every 50,000 to 100,000 pregnancies, highlighting the rarity of Ally and El’s condition.
Seattle Children’s Hospital confirmed that it will continue to support the family, assisting the twins in strengthening their muscles and developing new skills as they grow.
The successful surgery has drawn attention worldwide, serving as a milestone in pediatric reconstructive medicine and demonstrating the possibilities of modern surgical intervention.
Medical experts emphasized that careful planning, multidisciplinary collaboration, and advanced surgical techniques were critical to the operation’s success and the twins’ ongoing wellbeing.
Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) gathered that the case continues to inspire both medical professionals and families, showcasing how rare and high-risk conditions can be managed with precision, dedication, and coordinated care.
Ally and El’s story also highlights the importance of long-term rehabilitation and family support in ensuring the full recovery and healthy development of children who undergo complex surgical procedures.
The hospital reiterated that ongoing monitoring and therapy will be essential for the twins to achieve full mobility, independence, and quality of life.