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Conjoined Twins FAQ: What Is the Prognosis for Conjoined Twins

By Pamela Prindle Fierro, About.com

Question: Conjoined Twins FAQ: What Is the Prognosis for Conjoined Twins
Answer:

The prognosis depends on how the twins are connected. It is estimated that 40-60% are born stillborn. 35% survive 24 hours or less.

For those that do survive, their parents will face difficult decisions regarding their future. Some conjoined twins live successful lives despite the unique challenges they face. Others are plagued by medical complications due to shared organs and vital systems. Others are candidates for surgical separation.

Conjoined twins, also known as Siamese twins, are a rare type of monozygotic (identical) twins. Find more answers to Frequently Asked Questions About Conjoined Twins.

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