Omphalopagus conjoined twins were born by cesarean section after their
24-year-old gravida 2, para 1 mother went into labor at 35 weeks' ges
tation. Initial studies included roentenograms, an upper gastrointesti
nal study, small bowel follow-through, and computerized tomography wit
h intravenous contrast from neck through pelvis. Results of these stud
ies showed that the twins had very little shared vasculature, but did
share a pericardium and liver parenchyma. The infants were allowed to
gain weight and grow. After 3 weeks, tissue expanders were placed subc
utaneously and were rapidly expanded in 2 weeks. The infants were then
separated. An Argon Beam Coagulator was used to aid the separation of
the liver. The abdominal fascia was closed primarily on each infant,
and the skin easily closed without tension. During the first 36 hours
of the postoperative course, both infants required significant ventila
tory support including inhaled nitric oxide. After this period, the ve
ntilatory support decreased dramatically and rapidly. The infants were
discharged 9 days after their surgical separation. Conjoined omphalop
agus twins, the use of tissue expanders and the Argon Beam Coagulator,
and the postoperative course are discussed. Copyright (C) 1998 by W.B
. Saunders Company.