They were born in Minnesota in 2006. They were conjoined twins with their chest and abdomen joined.
The girls’ parents were aware that they wouldn’t have typical twins before the girls were born.
The condition of the girls was extremely rare, so medical professionals began looking for a safe technique to separate them.
These conjoined twins separated 13 years ago, and here’s how they look now that they’ve grown up.
Both the media and local residents quickly became interested in the newborns.
Although they were interviewed multiple times, parents Jesse and Amy found it difficult to cope with the situation.
Since Isabella’s heart was in Abby’s chest, and some of the girls’ organs were shared while others were entwined, separating them was very challenging.
As a result, the parents had a hard time deciding whether to have the girls undergo surgery.
The Carlsens had to consult with medical professionals for over six months before deciding on the best surgical procedures.
The procedure was performed at the Mayo Clinic. It took 12 hours and involved 17 surgeons.
The separation was successful despite the significant risks to both girls, but they weren’t discharged until six months later.
One of the doctors later acknowledged that dividing a liver in two was the most challenging procedure.
It’s a true miracle that both girls survived, and the surgery was a success.
The twins agreed to a television interview when they were 10 years old and briefly discussed their lives.
They were fourth-grade students living in North Dakota and were into gymnastics at the time.
The sisters remained the closest of friends despite having completely different tastes and interests as they grew up.
For example, despite being twins, Abby has no idea how they could be confused.
Abby and Isabelle are now happy, healthy, and successful in school. They also live in a loving family.