Children's Urology
Urological conditions are among the most common reasons children are referred to a paediatric surgeon. Whether your child has been identified with an issue at birth, diagnosed during routine check-ups, or has developed symptoms over time, Dr Ben Wagstaff offers experienced, compassionate care for a range of paediatric urological conditions.
What is Paediatric Urological Surgery?
Paediatric urology focuses on surgical conditions involving the kidneys, bladder, and genitourinary system in children. Many urological conditions in children are congenital - present from birth - and are managed electively when the timing is right for your child's development and overall health.
Dr Ben provides assessment and surgical management for urological conditions including:
Undescended testes (cryptorchidism) — orchidopexy
Inguinal hernias in boys and girls
Hydroceles (fluid around the testes)
Preputial (foreskin) conditions, including phimosis and recurrent infections
Circumcision where clinically indicated
Hypospadias assessment and referral
Urological anomalies identified on antenatal imaging
Dr Ben Wagstaff Paediatric surgeon Canberra
Undescended Testes
Undescended testes — where one or both testes have not descended into the scrotum — are among the most common conditions managed by paediatric surgeons. If not treated, an undescended testis may affect long-term fertility and increases the risk of testicular torsion. Surgery (orchidopexy) is typically recommended in the first one to two years of life and is a well-established, safe procedure.
Dr Wagstaff will assess your child thoroughly and discuss the recommended timing and approach for their individual situation.
Foreskin (Preputial) Conditions
Many young boys are referred for concerns about the foreskin, including tightness (phimosis), recurrent infections (balanitis), or ballooning during urination. Many of these conditions resolve naturally over time, and surgery is only recommended when there is a clear clinical indication. Dr Wagstaff will take a careful history and examine your child before recommending any management.
Antenatal Detection
Some urological conditions — such as renal pelvis dilation (hydronephrosis) or other urinary tract anomalies — are detected on prenatal ultrasound. If this applies to your pregnancy, Dr Wagstaff offers antenatal counselling to help you understand what has been found, what it may mean after birth, and what follow-up your baby is likely to need.
Paediatric Surgeon Canberra Dr Ben Wagstaff
A referral from your GP or paediatrician is required. For appointments or enquiries, please contact Dr Wagstaff's rooms.