In a first for India, Delhi doctors remove newborn’s parasitic twin in rare surgery

Doctors at Maulana Azad Medical College (MAMC) and Lok Nayak Hospital have successfully treated what is being reported as India’s first known case of a palatal parasitic twin in a newborn boy.

A palatal parasitic twin is an extremely rare form of a congenital condition known as Fetus in Fetu, in which an underdeveloped twin is found attached to or embedded within the body of its normally developed sibling. In this condition, the parasitic twin lacks vital organs and depends entirely on the host twin for blood supply.

When the parasitic twin develops in the oral cavity, it is referred to as a palatal parasitic twin, as it is attached to the hard or soft palate. Such growths may contain partially formed limbs, tissues, or organs and can obstruct feeding and breathing in newborns, requiring prompt surgical intervention for survival.

The baby was delivered at 36 weeks by caesarean section after antenatal scans showed a large growth inside the mouth. After birth, the infant developed severe airway obstruction and was immediately put on ventilation. The mass, measuring 15×12×8 cm, was attached to the hard palate, restricting breathing and head movement.

A surgical team led by Dr Sujoy Neogi, Professor, Department of Pediatric Surgery, performed the removal procedure with the assistance of Dr Deepak Goel, Dr Divya Tomar and Dr Rakesh. The operation required precise dissection to separate the growth from normal tissues.

The work was supported by Dr Simmi K Ratan, Head of Pediatric Surgery, and a larger team, including Dr Praful Kumar, Dr Chiranjiv Kumar, Dr Sheetal Upreti, and Dr Raghav Narang.

After surgery, the baby was kept in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) for breathing and feeding support. The child, now two months old, has recovered and is feeding with a bottle. “This case exemplifies the power of early antenatal diagnosis, surgical precision, and collaborative care, an inspiring testament to India’s advancing pediatric surgical capabilities,” hospital authorities said.