Neonatal Surgery
The arrival of a newborn who requires surgery is one of the most challenging experiences a family can face. Neonatal surgery involves the surgical care of babies in the first weeks of life - often for conditions that are time-sensitive and require a high level of expertise. Dr Ben Wagstaff has trained and worked in specialist neonatal surgical environments and is experienced in caring for newborns and their families through this difficult time.
What is Neonatal Surgery?
Neonatal surgery refers to surgical procedures performed in the first 28 days of life. These conditions may be identified before birth on antenatal imaging or become apparent shortly after delivery. They can affect the gastrointestinal tract, abdominal wall, airways, or other organ systems, and often require prompt assessment and intervention.
Care for neonatal surgical patients is always closely coordinated with neonatologists, paediatricians, anaesthetists, and neonatal nursing teams to ensure your baby receives comprehensive, well-supported care.
Neonatal surgical conditions that Dr Wagstaff is experienced in managing include:
Intestinal atresia (small bowel or duodenal atresia)
Malrotation and volvulus
Necrotising enterocolitis (NEC) requiring surgical intervention
Imperforate anus and anorectal malformations
Hirschsprung's disease
Abdominal wall defects, including gastroschisis and exomphalos
Oesophageal atresia and tracheo-oesophageal fistula
Congenital diaphragmatic hernia
Sacrococcygeal teratoma
Pyloric stenosis
Dr Ben Wagstaff Paediatric surgeon Canberra
Support for Families
A neonatal surgical diagnosis — whether before or after birth — brings enormous uncertainty and stress. Dr Wagstaff is committed to keeping families as informed and supported as possible. He will explain your baby's condition in clear language, discuss the surgical options and what to expect, and remain accessible throughout your baby's care.
For families who receive a prenatal diagnosis, Dr Wagstaff offers antenatal counselling so you can meet him before your baby is born, understand what lies ahead, and begin building a plan for your newborn's care.
Paediatric Surgeon Canberra Dr Ben Wagstaff
Referrals for urgent neonatal conditions are accepted from hospitals, neonatologists, and emergency departments. Elective referrals for conditions identified antenatally or postnatally are accepted from GPs and paediatricians. Please contact Dr Wagstaff's rooms for further information.