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Digital Government Authority
Registered on Digital Government Authority: 20251201338
Published: 8/8/2010

​Ruqayah the Iraqi conjoined twin sadly passed away on 7 August 2010 (26 Sha’ban 1431) at King Abdulaziz Mdical City, National Guard Health Affairs, as stated by Dr. Abdullah Al Rabeeah, Head of the Medical and Surgical Team.

Ruqayah underwent surgery to be separated from her twin sister Zainab on Friday, 16 July 2010 (4 Sha’ban 1431) as she suffered from a major head anomaly (encephalocele) which is usually not compatible with life.  The anomaly that Ruqayah suffered from caused respiratory arrest and bradicardia - each time distressing the other twin, Zainab. The anomaly was causing major difficulties to Ruqayah and potentially endangering the life of her twin sister Zainab. 

After in-depth discussions the Medical Team decided to proceed with the separation in order to save the life of Zainab.  Ruqayah’s death was expected due to the anomaly and was not due to the separation surgery nor any surgical complications.

We all pray to Allah the most Merciful and Almighty to accept her with His Mercy and to give strength and uphold the family during this sad and difficult time.

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