Thoracoomphalopagus-the Twins Sharing Heart

Abstract

Conjoined twin is one the rarest and most fascinating phenomena of twinning. The incidence ranges from 1 in 50 000 to 1 in 100 000 live births. Even though the degree and location of conjunction and the shared internal organs determine the prognosis of conjoined twins, they are associated with a high perinatal mortality rate. Early prenatal diagnosis and precise characterization of conjoined twins are essential for optimal obstetric, interventional and postnatal management as well as to reduce psychological trauma to the parents. Imaging by ultrasound and MRI plays a significant role in diagnosis and further management prediction. In this report, we present a case of multigravida pregnant woman who presented at 36+2 weeks gestation with thoraco-omphalopagus twins in advanced labour in a tertiary hospital. This case report not only reports a rare case but also emphasizes on the fact that even after so many advancements in the field of medicine, there still exists a gap in timely access to the healthcare facility, especially in developing countries.