News

Japanese Infant Cranial Shape Remolding Treatment (“Helmet Therapy”) Expands Globally

2025.01.07
Helmet Therapy Using 100% Made-in-Japan Helmets by Japan Medical Company Commences in Singapore

Cranial deformity treatment using “Qurum Fit” helmet by Japan Medical Company has commenced at KK Women’s and Children’s Hospital, Singapore’s largest public institution dedicated to women’s and children’s healthcare. Cranial deformity treatment for infants originated in the United States in the 2000s and is now globally recognized as an authenticated medical practice. In November 2024, the Neonatal Department of KK Women’s and Children’s Hospital, Singapore’s largest public hospital specializing in women’s and children’s healthcare, introduced helmet treatment using helmets manufactured by Japan Medical Company. “Qurum Fit” helmet was selected after a formal bidding process, recognized for its superior quality, proven track record of over 16,000 cases, and extensive use in university hospitals, children’s hospitals, and Baby’s Head Reshaping Clinic in Japan. To ensure successful implementation, KKH professionals (neonatologist, physiotherapist, orthotists) visited Japan. During the visit, they participated in training sessions and workshops, gaining valuable insights into Japan’s advanced cranial medical examination and treatment practices. Remarks by Directors/Auditors of Japan Cranial Medical Examination and Treatment Society (JCMETS)

Professor Satoshi Kusuda
Chairperson, JCMETS
Tokyo Healthcare University
In December 2024, KK Women’s and Children’s Hospital (KKH), Singapore’s largest maternal and child healthcare institution recognized globally for its high standards, commenced treatment for infant with cranial deformities using helmets manufactured by Japan Medical Company. This milestone underscores the international recognition of Japan’s advanced manufacturing technology and its comprehensive system for cranial deformity screening, diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care. Infant cranial deformities require precise evaluation and timely interventions to ensure long-term outcomes, beyond mere cosmetic concerns. This collaboration establishes shared medical principles, benefiting children and their families. We look forward to deepening this partnership through academic exchanges, research initiatives, and personnel collaborations to extend these benefits globally.
Professor Akira Gomi
Director, JCMETS
Pediatric Neurosurgery
Jichi Children’s Medical Center Tochigi
Jichi Medical University
During the training sessions at KK Hospital, we provided a comprehensive overview of the natural progression, risk factors, and pre- and post-natal causes of positional cranial deformities. We also presented advancements in the classification and treatment of craniosynostosis, emphasizing the growing adoption of suturectomy combined with helmet therapy. Using real-life examples, we highlighted critical techniques for differentiating craniosynostosis from positional cranial deformities. With positional cranial deformities increasing globally, including in Singapore, we observed significant interest in their high prevalence among children with underlying conditions. Japan’s lightweight and breathable helmets, designed for comfort in hot climates, are anticipated to offer valuable solutions for pediatric patients in Singapore.
Professor Shigeharu Hosono
Director, JCMETS
Department of Pediatrics and
Perinatal Medicine
Saitama Medical Center
Jichi Medical University
In Japan, specialized training in pediatric head morphology is limited. To address this, the Japan Cranial Medical Examination and Treatment Society actively promotes educational initiatives. During training sessions at KKH, In this training, we used real-life examples and emphasized to demonstrate that parents’ concerns about their children are not simply about positional cranial deformity problems. We also showed that children with head shape problems may have abnormal muscle tone and developmental delays at the initial visit and during treatment. Proper nutritional guidance, essential for successful helmet therapy due to its reliance on head growth, and regular evaluations by pediatricians and neonatologists were also highlighted. Singaporean professionals expressed strong interest in Japan’s comprehensive cranial screening and treatment system, engaging actively in discussions. This initiative not only introduces Japan Medical Company’s products but also shares Japan’s cranial care frame work, fostering collaboration to advance pediatric cranial care across the region.
Professor Isao Kusakawa
Auditor, JCMETS
Baby’s Head Reshaping Clinic
During the training program with KKH, we examined both medical and societal risk factors associated with positional cranial deformity, including the historical evolution of sleep and childcare practices in Japan, a monoethnic island nation with unique cultural dynamics. Recognizing no universal ideal for head shape, effective treatment requires addressing societal and cultural factors influencing perceptions of cranial aesthetics, which vary across ethnic groups. Post-training discussions explored extending helmet therapy to children with neuromuscular disorders, addressing anticipated medical needs. We look forward to collaborating with KKH, Singapore’s leading pediatric institution, to advance joint research and broaden helmet therapy applications.
Japan Cranial Medical Examination and Treatment Society (JCMETS)
JCMETS unites medical professionals to advance cranial care through research collaboration, knowledge exchange, and partnerships. It aims to enhance treatments, foster academic growth, and promote public health.
https://jcmets.securesite.jp/

Implementation in Singapore
The KKH team visited leading Japanese medical institutions utilizing the Company’s helmets and underwent training on 3D scanning and cushion adjustments to align Singapore’s treatments with Japan’s high standards.

KK Women’s and Children’s Hospital
Established in 1858, KKH has developed into Singapore’s leading institution for obstetrics, gynecology, pediatrics, and neonatology. The hospital, with a capacity of 830 beds, serves as a referral center providing tertiary care for high-risk conditions affecting women and children. KKH is committed to raising clinical standards in Singapore while providing seamless services and compassionate care in a healing environment, ensuring patients have a comfortable hospital experience.
https://www.kkh.com.sg/

Infant Cranial Deformities
Infant cranial deformities are commonly caused by external pressures, such as habitual positioning, though they may result from pathological conditions. In some cases, helmet therapy addresses positional deformities by utilizing remolding helmets during the critical head growth phase, typically between three and six months of age.

Japan Medical Company and “Qurum Fit” Japan Medical Company, a global leader in cranial helmet manufacturing, integrates over 130 years of craftsmanship with advanced 3D printing technology to deliver innovative healthcare solutions. Established in 1897 as “Ono and Company,” the firm has consistently advanced medical science, including the introduction of 3D-printed human bone models in 1999, widely utilized in neurosurgery and otolaryngology for the hands-on training courses globally. In 2012, the Company introduced Japan’s first domestically produced cranial remolding helmet, “Aimet,” followed by the advanced “Qurum” and “Qurum Fit”. Supporting over 16,000 case and developed with pediatric specialists, prescribing physicians undergo comprehensive training, clinical observation at leading institutions, and continuous education to ensure adherence to best practices. The initiative underscores the Company’s commitment to establish global benchmarks in infant cranial care and innovation.
https://japanmedicalcompany.co.jp/

For inquiries, please contact: choice@japanmedicalcompany.co.jp