A world-renowned surgeon who separated conjoined twins four years ago has died after being diagnosed with coronavirus.

Dr James Goodrich, a paediatric neurosurgeon at New York City's Montefiore Medical Center, died on Monday after suffering complications related to COVID-19.

"Dr Goodrich was a beacon of our institution and he will be truly missed," Montefiore Medicine CEO Dr Philip Ozuah said in a statement.

"His expertise and ability were second only to his kind heart and manner.

"Dr Goodrich was admired by his Montefiore Einstein colleagues and adored by his patients and Montefiore Einstein will not be the same without his presence."


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The 73-year-old was part of the team of 40 specialists who separated twins Jadon and Anais McDonald four years ago in a 27-hour operation.

They were joined at the crown and shared a 7cm section of brain tissue.

In a tweet the hospital said: "The Montefiore community is mourning the loss of Dr James T Goodrich.

"Not only was he an elite surgeon, over the years he was a generous mentor and teacher who shared his craft with many young surgeons who wanted to follow in his footsteps."

Emad Eskandar, head of the hospital's neurosurgery department, added: "Jim was in many ways the heart and soul of our department.

"A master surgeon and a world-class educator, and a beloved colleague for all."

The hospital said Dr Goodrich, originally from Oregon, served as a Marine during the Vietnam war.

It was during this time he decided to pursue a medical career.

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