Urgent Airlift for Rare Conjoined Twins from PNG to Australia

Conjoined twins Tom and Sawong are being urgently airlifted from Papua New Guinea to Australia for critical medical treatment. Doctors have advised that the boys, born two months ago and currently joined at the lower abdomen, require separation surgery that is not feasible in their home country.

The twins were initially treated at Port Moresby General Hospital before being moved to Paradise Private Hospital. Following urgent consultations, specialists from the Sydney Children’s Hospitals Network arrived in Port Moresby to oversee their transfer to Sydney.

Tom, the smaller twin, has been experiencing declining health, exacerbated by a congenital heart defect and a single kidney. His condition prompted medical professionals to expedite the boys’ transfer to Australia, where a dedicated team is prepared to carry out the complex surgery necessary for their separation.

Medical Team and Treatment Plans

Polapoi Chalau, chief executive of Paradise Private Hospital, noted that Tom’s health has reached a critical level, citing low albumin levels that are crucial for maintaining fluid balance in the body. “I think we’ve just about reached that critical level now – something needs to be done,” he stated.

In a letter addressed to doctors in Papua New Guinea, the Sydney team outlined that Tom’s long-term survival prospects are poor due to multiple congenital anomalies. Conversely, Sawong has a reasonable chance of survival post-surgery. The letter emphasized the urgency of their transfer, stating, “The reason for the early separation is that Sawong is working hard to support Tom.”

Upon arrival in Sydney, the twins will undergo a series of investigations, including MRI and CT scans, to assess their anatomical and vascular conditions. A multidisciplinary team comprising liver surgeons, cardiologists, and neonatologists will be involved in their care, ensuring comprehensive medical support throughout the process.

Funding for their medical care is a crucial requirement before their transfer can be finalized. The parents of Tom and Sawong recently requested assistance from the Papua New Guinea government to cover these costs.

Challenges and Parental Hope

The decision to airlift the twins comes after considerable deliberation. Initially, doctors at Port Moresby General Hospital advised against overseas transfer due to concerns about the survival of both twins post-separation. Paki Molumi, the hospital’s chief executive, explained that the team collectively agreed it was in the best interest of the twins to continue care locally.

After the initial recommendation, the twins’ parents opted to move them to Paradise Private Hospital, where care continued. Two weeks ago, specialists from Sydney assessed the situation and recommended the urgent transfer to a facility capable of handling such complex cases.

Janet Sios, co-owner of Paradise Private Hospital, described the emotional strain on the parents, expressing hope for the twins’ future. “Hope is what they’re holding on to,” she said, adding that even if one twin does not survive, the other could achieve great things in life.

Dr. Chalau acknowledged that the transfer is just the beginning of a long journey. “Getting them overseas is just a start,” he remarked. “Surgery is just part of it, but the long-term care and rehabilitation is another thing.”

As arrangements are finalized for the twins’ flight to Sydney, the urgency of their situation emphasizes the need for specialized medical intervention, a testament to the dedication of healthcare professionals working tirelessly for their well-being.