Western Cape Department of Health and Wellness launches innovative 3D spinal brace service to improve patient care

The Western Cape Department of Health and Wellness is leading the charge in digital innovative products to improve the lives of patients across the province. With the introduction of new digital 3D scanning and printing service for spinal braces at our Orthotic and Prosthetic Centre (OPC), this marks a significant step forward in patient-centred care within the public health sector.

Western Cape Minister of Health and Wellness, Mireille Wenger said, "For many patients living with scoliosis, spinal injuries and other conditions, a spinal brace can make a meaningful difference to their quality of life. These braces help to reduce pain, support recovery, and prevent further complications. 

"The new 3D printer is a game changer for our patients cutting waiting times from two weeks to a matter of 2. For children with scoliosis, getting a brace early can help prevent the curve in their spine from getting worse as they grow. With an investment of around R5.5 million in the technology and machinery in April, this technology has already helped 6 patients. As one of the first government healthcare facilities to offer this service in-house, we are using innovation to help patients get the care they need, sooner."

Using advanced 3D scanning technology, patients can now be scanned in a standing position within minutes while wearing light clothing. The scan is then digitally modified by clinicians, and the brace is produced using 3D-printing technology, resulting in a lighter, more precise and more comfortable device. The shorter turnaround time means patients with conditions such as Scoliosis, Pectus carinatum (Pigeon chest), TB spine, Compression fractures of the spine and Spondylosis are able to receive supportive devices in a matter of 48 hours at less than half the price of a traditional plaster of paris-based brace. 

The launch coincides with international Prosthetics and Orthotics Day commemorated annually on 5 November. The OPC is the only Orthotic and Prosthetic Centre in the public system in the Western Cape, producing and manufacturing bespoke orthosis and prosthesis and services. Patients from across the province access services from OPC, except the Eden District, which has a private facility providing the service to the community. The Centre currently provides 112 outreach services in various satellite locations in the Western Cape. Services are provided through referrals from specialists or medical officers on an appointment basis.

Bongani Mlambo, Facility manager at OPC says the technology will allow the facility to take patient care forward.  “We are not just launching a printer, we are launching a new way of working. This is how we become leaders in rehabilitation. We are the first state facility to do this. It is a first on the African Continent, and we will not be the last, because we will show others the way. Most importantly, this printer is for the patients. They are the reason we are here. Everything we print will be to improve the lives of our patients through providing comfortable, unique orthosis and prosthesis to improve lives.”

This innovation is particularly important for children and adolescents receiving scoliosis treatment, as well as patients recovering from spinal surgery or trauma. By improving comfort and fit, the service aims to support better treatment adherence and, ultimately, better health outcomes.

Nashita Stellenboom (14) is one of the first recipients to receive a 3D printed brace. Born prematurely at 27 weeks, doctors were concerned about a number of potential health complications. It was not until a nagging cough at 10 years old resulting in a chest x-ray that they discovered she has scoliosis, explains her mother, Nailah.

“I have been wearing a brace for the last four years, but they were always the heavier plaster of paris braces. This is much lighter. Wearing a brace has given me confidence. It has helped my posture and pain in my back and I can now do so much more. I can even play sport,” says Nashita.

She will continue to receive adjusted braces as she grows until she turns 18.

Nailah adds that they were offered the option of corrective back surgery or a brace, but chose to give the brace a chance.

“The brace has helped her back so much. Her spine is improving. Before the brace, there were times when I saw her crying, not having confidence in herself and this is when I knew I needed to encourage her to wear the brace. Surgery is not always the only option and we are so happy that we decided on the orthotic brace,” says Nailah.

The initiative reflects the department's commitment to providing dignified, accessible, and people-centred healthcare. It also strengthens the public health system by reducing waiting times, improving efficiency and enabling clinicians to assist more patients without requiring additional resources.

Beyond the technology itself, this project demonstrates the value of collaboration between healthcare professionals, patients, families, and partners working towards a common goal: improving quality of life for people who rely on assistive devices. As one of the first public-sector facilities in South Africa to introduce a fully digital workflow for routine spinal brace production, OPC is helping to shape the future of rehabilitation services and ensuring that communities have access to innovative, high-quality care closer to home.