Orthopedic aspects of separation.

In the management of conjoined twins the orthopedic surgeon may be involved directly, as part of the surgical team at operation or indirectly, in dealing with associated anomalies or the sequelae of surgery. The overwhelming indication for orthopedic involvement is ischiopagus, either tripus or tetrapus. The main role of the orthopedic surgeon is to facilitate midline closure through the use of pelvic osteotomies, which allow the symphysis pubis to be approximated.