Children with Oesophageal Atresia : A Biopsychosocial Follow up Study

Abstract

Oesophageal atresia is a common congenital anomaly, embracing a clinically heterogeneous group of patients concerning seriousness of the medical condition, additional malformations and complications. Increased risk for psychosocial problems among children with oesophageal atresia has been reported. However, this has not been studied with valid and reliable methods among infants and adolescents. <br><br>

This thesis explores physical problems, mental health, mother-infant interaction and other psychosocial factors in children with oesophageal atresia. The material on which the thesis is based comprised children operated during the neonatal period at Oslo University Hospital Rikshospitalet in Oslo, Norway, in 1999-2002 and 1986-1990. These two populations were studied by age 13 months (infants) and 13 years (adolescents). The assessments were based on self-reports, interviews, professional observations and videotaped interactions. The results illuminate concerns related to emotional problems in children with oesophageal atresia, and may help clinicians to identify children at risk.