The orthopedic management of conjoined twins: a review of 13 cases and report of 4 cases.

We reviewed 13 pairs of conjoined twins treated at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia between 1957 and 1988. Orthopedic problems were related to the ischiopagus type. These included problems related to separation and to the correction of associated deformities. The technique for separation has evolved through improved preoperative imaging and with increased experience, resulting in preservation of a longer and more functional "shared leg." Better preservation of skin to cover both infants and enough of the "shared leg" to insure a functional knee has been possible with posterior iliac osteotomies to close the pelvic ring, as well as the use of tissue expanders.