KK Women’s and Children’s Hospital (KKH) has inaugurated Singapore’s first PlagioCentre, a specialised clinic dedicated to diagnosing and treating plagiocephaly and brachycephaly, collectively known as flat head syndrome. This initiative marks KKH as the first public hospital in Singapore to incorporate 3D-printed helmets into its treatment options.
The establishment of the PlagioCentre comes in response to a significant rise in awareness and cases of flat head syndrome. Over the past two years, KKH has observed a 36% increase in cases, with numbers climbing from over 800 in 2022 to more than 1,000 in 2024. Globally, the condition affects up to 22% of infants by the sixth week of life, escalating to nearly 30% by the fourth month.
Flat head syndrome occurs when an infant’s head becomes misshapen due to prolonged pressure on one side, often exacerbated by torticollis, a condition that restricts neck movement. The PlagioCentre offers comprehensive services, including physiotherapy and helmet therapy, particularly for moderate to severe cases. The 3D-printed helmets are custom-fitted using a scan of the infant’s head, applying gentle pressure to reshape the skull.
Dr Kavitha V Sothirasan, Lead of the KKH PlagioCentre, emphasised the importance of early intervention, stating, “Helmet therapy is most effective when started early, whilst the skull is still developing.” The centre’s multidisciplinary team ensures that infants receive tailored care to improve their condition.
Parents seeking more information about the PlagioCentre are encouraged to consult their child’s paediatrician or visit a polyclinic.
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