Knatalye and Addy Mata Had Successful Scoliosis Surgeries
The twins, separated in 2015, have recovered from procedures to correct spinal curvatures in Dallas.
Updated on Oct. 2, 2026 in Special Needs
Eleven years after their historic 26-hour separation surgery, Knatalye and Addy Mata have successfully undergone surgeries to treat scoliosis at Scottish Rite for Children. The twins, who were born conjoined, spent three months apart during their recovery process.
Why it matters
Correcting these severe spinal curvatures was necessary to alleviate physical pressure on the sisters' bodies and improve their respiratory health. Addy had previously experienced complications where her spine pressed against her ribs, which limited her lung capacity.
The sisters underwent the procedure after 11 years of development following their 2015 separation, with a three-month recovery period required for the spinal work.
The players
Scottish Rite for Children
A Dallas-based pediatric hospital known for specializing in orthopedic conditions and complex musculoskeletal care.
Texas Children's Hospital
A pediatric healthcare center where the twins underwent their initial separation surgery in 2015.
The details
The surgical interventions were required to address severe spinal curvatures that developed over the years. During the recovery period, the girls were kept apart for three months to ensure proper healing of the spinal structures. Addy specifically required the correction because her spine was compressing her ribs, creating a structural issue that hindered her lung function.
Timeline
February 2015: The twins underwent a 26-hour separation surgery.
October 2026: The hospital announced the successful scoliosis surgeries.
The Home Front
These procedures represent a continuation of the specialized medical support required for survivors of complex neonatal separation. It follows the established pattern of long-term orthopedic monitoring common in children born with severe congenital structural anomalies.
Families managing complex pediatric orthopedic conditions should maintain updated records of spinal imaging and surgical history. Consult with a licensed specialist if you notice new posture concerns or breathing changes in a child who has previously undergone major structural surgery.
The takeaway
The successful recovery of the Mata twins highlights the importance of ongoing orthopedic evaluation for survivors of neonatal separation surgery. Families should continue to track physical health milestones and consult with licensed pediatric specialists to address any emerging structural concerns.
Further reading
Learn more about local resources for families managing complex conditions in the Special Needs section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by ABC News.
