MSF Gaza: Supplies running out for 3D-printing technology to treat facial burns

09 April 2026 - The fragile ceasefire that took effect on 10 October, 2025, has not stopped regular attacks by Israeli forces across Gaza, leading to large numbers of people with severe burn injuries.

Médecins Sans Frontières/Doctors Without Borders (MSF) continues to treat an alarming number of patients with severe facial burns at our clinic in Gaza City. Among the most vulnerable are children, who make up 85 per cent of our current cohort of 88 active patients in the clinic.

To prevent permanent disfigurement and disability, patients require specialised pressure therapy masks. Since 2020, MSF has been the only provider of 3D-printed physiotherapy masks in Gaza.

These masks apply consistent pressure to healing burns, preventing hypertrophic scarring and contractures that can impair breathing, movement, and facial function.

But since the Israeli authorities revoked the registration of MSF to work in Palestine, along with 37 other NGOs, on 03 December, 2025, we've been unable to get new supplies into Gaza. We are running out of filament, the essential material needed to create each customised mask.

At the same time, only two functioning 3D scanners remain in the entire Strip. Spare parts for printers are also blocked. We urge all relevant authorities to take immediate action to allow the delivery of essential medical supplies, equipment and spare parts into Gaza.

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