This information has been compiled for TOFS by members of the Adult OA/TOF Working Group together with members of VACTERL Association UK and reviewed by Dr Vuokko Wallace, Clinical Psychologist and adult born with OA/TOF.
Medical trauma is a trauma that arises from a difficult or distressing experience in a medical setting. Medical trauma is a subjective experience; it impacts each individual differently, and to different degrees.
Medical trauma can develop in various medical situations and settings. It is a complex process, also impacted by individuals’ previous personal experiences. It is important to note that developing medical trauma is not a sign of weakness but rather a natural response to challenging circumstances.
People born with life long conditions such as OA/TOF / VACTERL Association often face medical investigations and interventions throughout their lives. Sometimes the medical procedures can be uncomfortable, which increases the risk of experiencing psychological trauma.
Caring for a child born with a complex medical condition can be challenging. Caregivers might be expected to carry on medical interventions at home, which complicates the development of medical trauma, which is distressing for both caregiver and child.
More information: Medical Trauma Defined
More information: Signs and Symptoms
Some medical experiences are more likely to cause trauma or trigger existing trauma(1).
Risk of trauma is low, unless there is a history of previous medical trauma in adults and children
Planned visits: Visiting GP or hospital specialist. Outpatient appointments for procedures e.g., gastroscopy, dentists
More likely to cause medical trauma
A life changing or life threatening diagnosis e.g., a diagnosis Barrett’s oesophagus, oesophageal failure. asthma, bronchiectasis, emphysema, cancer, infertility,
Life threatening and emergency medical procedures
Most likely to lead to medical trauma, especially if you are conscious during this and aware of the likelihood of potential death. e.g., ITU admission, choking/food obstruction
More information: Which medical experiences may cause medical trauma?
As medical trauma is a subjective experience, many previous experiences and individual circumstances impact how and when medical trauma might develop. These previous experiences can include both difficult and positive experiences, making it either more or less likely that a person experiences medical trauma.
These can be also called risk factors and protective factors.
Risk factors might include having experienced trauma in another setting, or some other difficulties in life, including social, economical, and mental health difficulties, and other physical health difficulties or learning disabilities.
More information: Non-medical experiences which make medical trauma more likely
More information: How to talk to Healthcare Professionals, Family and Friends
Counselling and psychotherapy (cognitive behavioural therapy, EMDR) is often beneficial for trauma(1):
Your general practitioner can be a good source of help and guidance about what treatments are available, and medication if appropriate.
More information: Treatment for Medical Trauma
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