Will continue to supervise treatment of separated conjoined twins: Dr Ashok Mahapatra

New Delhi: It was due to the blessings of Lord Jagannath and prayers of people of Odisha that separation surgery of Kandhamal’s conjoined twins-Jaga and Kalia was successful, said Prof. Dr Ashok Mahapatra after his retirement as HOD, Neurosurgery, AIIMS, New Delhi.

Sharing his experience, Mahapatra stated that ‘it was a do or die situation’ when both the conjoined twins had come to AIIMS, New Delhi. It would have been more difficult if the kids had grown further.

Also Read: Conjoined twins Jaga-Kalia moved to general ward in AIIMS Delhi

A team of 40 surgeons including experts from Japan were involved in the complex surgery to separate the conjoined twins at AIIMS that was conducted in August 2017. The twins were earlier shifted to the AIIMS on July 13 after initial health check-up at SCB Medical College and Hospital in Cuttack earlier in July.

Also Read: Separated conjoined twins Jaga & Kalia ring in Christmas with adorable Santa caps

“It was a challenging surgery and possible only due to team effort and blessings of Lord Jagannath and people of Odisha,” said Mahapatra.

Mahapatra further stated that among the separated conjoined twins, Jaga is likely to be discharged from AIIMS within next three months while it will take slightly longer for Kalia.

Moreover, Mahapatra will continue to supervise and assist the medical team at AIIMS regarding the treatment of Jaga and Kalia.