Sisters Minal and Mirha, born in Pakistan last year, faced extraordinary challenges as they shared vital blood vessels and brain tissue. Any attempt to separate them was extremely risky, requiring highly specialized expertise.
On July 19, British neurosurgeon Professor Noor ul Owase Jeelani led a 14-hour marathon surgery at Bilkent City Hospital in Ankara. The delicate operation carefully separated the twins while minimizing risks to their shared circulatory and brain structures—a high-stakes procedure demanding precision and coordination.
To prepare, the team used cutting-edge mixed-reality technology, combining 3D imaging with the physical world. MRI scans produced a detailed 3D model of the girls’ heads, allowing surgeons to rehearse every step in advance.
Just two months later, Minal and Mirha are recovering exceptionally well. Professor Jeelani called their progress “excellent,” and they are expected to return home to Pakistan soon. The successful surgery gives them a chance to live independently and enjoy a normal childhood.
Beyond the twins’ story, the operation highlights the impact of advanced technology in modern pediatric neurosurgery, improving the safety, precision, and efficiency of even the most complex procedures. For the family and medical team, this life-changing success is a testament to courage, skill, and hope.