Archive photo (Photo: Freepik)
One of the conjoined twin babies, who were recently successfully separated from each other at the Mankweng Hospital in Limpopo, died on Good Friday.
Dr. Provincial Premier Phophi Ramathuba expressed her condolences to the mother and family.
“We are deeply saddened by this heartbreaking loss. No parent should ever experience the pain of losing a child,” she said.
The baby died in the early hours of the morning after complications that followed the extremely complicated separation operation. According to the medical team, after the operation both babies developed severe sepsis – a serious infection that can affect multiple organs.
Despite intensive treatment, including antibiotics and support in the intensive care unit, the baby died of multiple organ failure.
The provincial government confirmed that the mother was constantly kept informed of the babies’ condition and that she showed extraordinary strength in the midst of the difficult circumstances.
The surviving twins remain under close medical supervision, and the provincial government says support to the family will continue.
In the meantime, the public and media have been requested to respect the family’s privacy, as well as the space of health professionals who are still providing care to the baby.
Operation earlier described as medical milestone
Limpopo Premier Dr. Phophi Ramathuba wishes prov. Nyaweleni Tshifularo earlier congratulated on the successful separation of the twins (Photo: Limpopo Provincial Government / Facebook)
The separation of the twins was earlier described as a remarkable achievement by the provincial government. The multidisciplinary team at Mankweng Hospital was praised for their expertise and cooperation which made the operation possible.
The surgery initially brought hope to the babies and their families, but the latest development underscores the risks associated with such complex medical procedures.