Innovative 3D-printed baby helmets improving lives of youngest Minnesotans

A medical innovation is improving the quality of life of the youngest Minnesotans.

M Health Fairview clinics are now offering 3D-printed baby helmets to treat head shape abnormalities.

“Definitely not something you think as first-time parents that you’re going to be going on this journey with these helmets,” said Alie Welch, whose son spent about 18 weeks in a helmet this year.

She explained that every other week for several months, they visited the M Health Fairview clinic in Wyoming to have her son William’s head measured and the helmet adjusted.

They were referred to the clinic by his pediatrician to address the flat spot on the back of his head. Alie and her husband William were given two helmet options, including a 3D-printed helmet.

“I think just the thought of it made me hesitant because you don’t want to see your baby in a helmet, but with all the information we prov...