Anaesthetic challenges in conjoined twins' separation surgery

Indian J Anaesth. 2016 Nov;60(11):852-855. doi: 10.4103/0019-5049.193685.

Abstract

Conjoined twins are a rare congenital anomaly of unknown aetiology. We report the successful anaesthetic management of separation of ischiopagus tetrapus conjoined twins. The importance of a multidisciplinary approach, thorough pre-operative evaluation and planning, vigilant monitoring and anticipation of complications such as massive blood and fluid loss, haemodynamic instability, hypothermia and intensive, post-operative care are emphasised.

Keywords: Anaesthesia; conjoined twins; separation.