Conjoined Twins

What are conjoined twins? Conjoined twins are two twins that are connected to each other. They can be joined at different parts of the body and are named according to where they are connected. Sadly, some do not survive. Listed below are the different types of conjoined twins.

Craniopagus twins are connected at the head. To separate them is possible although brain damage is a possibility.

Rachipagus twins are joined at the spine.

Parapagus conjoined twins have three or four more limbs connected to each other. To separate is possible although they would probably need artificial limbs.

Pyopagus twins are connected at the pelvis. The chance of these twins being born is a rare but the survival rate is very good. They can be separated.

Cephalopagus are connected at the head and chest. The two faces are on the opposite side of the head.    There are no cases of surviving Cephalopagus twins.

Ischiopagus twins are connected at the pelvis and they share the intestines, bladder, genitals and kidneys. The separation rate is good.

Omphalopagus twins are connected at the abdomen. They mostly share liver tissue. The highest survival rate for conjoined twins is this type of twin. The liver is the only body organ that can regenerate itself so separation is possible.