Odishatv Bureau

In an exclusive interview with OTV, Neurosurgeon of AIIMS New Delhi, Ashok Mahapatra who is leading a team of doctors undertaking one of the rarest separation surgeries of Kandhamal conjoined twins Jaga-Kalia revealed that the condition of twins after the initial 20-hour marathon surgery is stable and they have started taking liquids. Here are the excerpts of the interview.

What is the present condition of Jaga-Kalia?

We have set up a separate OT with an ICU unit because there are chances of people visiting them if they are kept along with other patients. Presently their condition is stable. They shave started taking liquids and water. In one or two days we will give them semi-solid food. If they remain stable for next two days, we will shift them to a private ward of the hospital. But still there are chances of fever or other diseases contracting them. Therefore, we have to be very cautious.

How you are monitoring their condition? Have they started talking?

Usually their mother is visiting them. They were very weak when the first operation was done. Jaga is somewhat strong whereas Kalia’s condition is not desirably healthy. I noticed when their mother visited them they were trying to speak but in an inaudible voice. I believe they are communicating well with their mother barring a few instances.

Could you please share your experience during the surgery?

Operating upon the conjoined twins was a challenge for me as well as the hospital. In the team of doctors, we had two Odia Anaesthesia specialists and we all were praying to the Almighty for the success of the operation. The first operation was crucial for further treatment of the twins. With the grace of Almighty, there was no problem in the operation theatre during the first 20-hour operation. We had arranged 20 bottles of blood, but we managed with five bottles. There was less bleeding during the operation.

What efforts are on to bring Jaga-Kalia back to normal?

We are at the preliminary stage. In another 25 to 30-hour operation they will be separated and that operation is a crucial one. As skin is not available, plastic surgery will play a pivotal role. Apart from this, artificial materials will be used for covering the brain. Present concern is that the conjoined twins should recover well in the initial seven days of the first operation.

How rare is the surgery?

In last 75 years, 50 such cases were examined. In this case, success rate is 10-15%. Jaga-Kalia’s case is complicated as the brains are fused whereas in other cases they were either partial or angular.

Is there a need for any further financial aid?

The Odisha government has released Rs 1 crore financial aid within 24-48 hrs of sending the estimation. I believe so much money will not be required. A doctors’ committee and a senior administrator is looking into the expenses.

What would be your message to people of Odisha?

I would urge people of the State to pray to the Lord for quick recovery of the twins.

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