Xiphoomphaloischiopagus tripus conjoined twins: successful separation following abdominal wall expansion

A case of xiphoomphaloischiopagus tripus conjoined twins is reported. Particular emphasis was paid to the large abdominal wall defect that would be produced by separation, and the complications resulting from the use of intraperitoneal Silastic tissue expanders are described. As a result of adequate tissue expansion and the use of a vascularized pedicle graft from the fused limb, primary abdominal wall and pelvic closure was possible without complications of wound healing. The consistent finding of a shared lower urinary tract with one ureter from each infant entering each bladder should be anticipated in this type of twinning.