Conjoined Twins Ally and El Separated After 18-Hour Surgery

Fifteen-month-old conjoined twins, Ally and El, were successfully separated in a rare and complex surgery at Seattle Children’s Hospital. The operation, which lasted for an extraordinary 18 hours, took place on February 28, 2025, and involved a dedicated team of over 30 healthcare professionals. According to a recent press release from the hospital, both twins are now thriving at home and receiving ongoing treatment as they continue to grow.

The twins were joined at the pelvis and were brought to the hospital in the fall of 2024 for an initial evaluation. The separation surgery required extensive preparation over the course of nearly a year, highlighting the complexity of their case. According to experts from the Cleveland Clinic, only about 1 in every 50,000 to 1 in 100,000 pregnancies involve conjoined twins, making Ally and El’s situation particularly rare.

Complex Surgery and Team Coordination

Dr. Caitlin A. Smith, co-director of the reconstructive pelvic medicine program at Seattle Children’s, emphasized the intricate nature of the surgery. “Conjoined twins are rare, and twins joined at the pelvis, as Ally and El were, are even a bit rarer,” she stated. “The surgery required to separate them is highly specialized, but I was excited because I knew we had the right team in place.”

The medical team worked meticulously to separate the twins’ gastrointestinal, gynecologic, and urologic systems. The successful operation was the result of extensive preparation, with the team ensuring that the twins’ parents remained informed throughout the process. “The relief that they were separated and safe was incredible,” Dr. Smith added. “Each twin got what they needed, thanks to our amazing, dedicated team who worked to ensure Ally and El’s health and safety were priority number one.”

Post-Surgery Progress and Family Support

Ally and El were discharged from the hospital in late May 2025. Initially, the twins faced movement restrictions as they began their recovery, but they have since made significant progress. Under the guidance of physical therapists and speech-language specialists, the twins are working on developing their fine motor skills and improving their speech. The rehabilitation team at Seattle Children’s is focused on helping them strengthen their muscles as they learn to walk.

Their mother, Sam, expressed her joy in witnessing their growth. “It has been incredible to watch our girls crawl quickly, learn new words, and see their distinct personalities take shape,” she remarked in the hospital’s release.

As Ally and El continue to thrive, their journey stands as a testament to the dedication of the medical professionals involved and the resilience of the twins themselves. Their story not only highlights the advances in pediatric medicine but also sheds light on the profound impact of family support during critical health challenges.