Abby and Erin Delaney, who were born at CHOP’s Garbose Family Special Delivery Unit, were the first set of twins with the rare craniopagus condition to be separated at CHOP. This condition meant they were conjoined at the tops of their heads.
Despite their physical connection, the Delaney twins displayed distinct behaviors, reminding everyone that they were unique individuals who couldn’t be easily distinguished or separated.
The twins shared not only bone but also the coverings of their brains, particularly the sagittal sinus, a crucial vein through which about 20 percent of cardiac output passes.
Over the course of their first ten months, the girls underwent multiple surgeries, including the placement of expanders to stretch their skin. This extensive and complex procedure involved a multidisciplinary team of approximately 30 members, including neurosurgeons, plastic surgeons, nurses, and other medical staff.
The separation surgery itself took about 11 hours, and it was an emotionally and physically taxing experience for both the girls and the medical team. Following their successful separation, the twins needed specialized care and close monitoring from specialists, including nutritionists, developmental pediatricians, speech therapists, occupational therapists, and physical therapists.
In the coming years, they would require additional surgeries to replace missing bone in their skulls and minimize scarring. Their journey was far from over, and although they had faced numerous challenges, the girls remained cheerful and brave throughout the process.
Their mother expressed gratitude for the support they received, highlighting the hospital’s role as a place where miracles happen.
While the Delaney twins’ story showcased the challenges and triumphs they faced, another story from Australia featured the birth of premature twins, emphasizing the hope and strength of premature babies and their parents. Anthea Jackson-Rushford gave birth to these premature twins, spreading hope to parents in similar situations.
