General Surgery for Children
Children are not simply small adults. Their bodies, their conditions, and their care require a specialist approach — one that accounts for how rapidly they grow and change, and the unique nature of childhood surgical conditions. Dr Ben Wagstaff is a fellowship-trained paediatric surgeon offering comprehensive general surgical care for infants, children, and adolescents across Canberra and the surrounding region.
What is Paediatric Surgery?
Paediatric surgery covers a wide spectrum of surgical conditions affecting the digestive system, abdominal wall, chest, and soft tissues in children from birth through to adolescence. This includes everything from straightforward day procedures to more complex conditions requiring careful planning and coordination with other specialists.
Dr Wagstaff brings experience from three of Australia's leading children's hospitals — Royal Children's Hospital, Perth Children's Hospital, and Royal Darwin Hospital — and provides surgical care across a range of general conditions.
Dr Ben’s general paediatric surgical care may include the assessment and management of various conditions including:
Inguinal and umbilical hernias
Undescended testes (orchidopexy)
Appendicitis and appendicectomy
Pyloric stenosis
Intussusception
Bowel and abdominal conditions
Lymph node assessment and biopsy
Soft tissue lumps, cysts, and skin conditions
Minimally invasive (laparoscopic) surgery
Gastro-oesophageal reflux and fundoplication
A Caring Approach for Children and Families
Surgical procedures in childhood can feel daunting for families. Dr Wagstaff is committed to explaining your child's condition clearly, discussing all available management options, and ensuring you feel well-informed and supported throughout the process. He will take time to answer your questions and address any concerns you may have before any procedure is scheduled.
Whenever appropriate, minimally invasive approaches are used to reduce recovery time, minimise discomfort, and support a quicker return to normal activities for your child.
Referrals & Appointments
A referral from your GP or paediatrician is required to see Dr Wagstaff. For appointments or enquiries, please contact his rooms directly.
Paediatric Surgeon Canberra Dr Ben Wagstaff
Dr Wagstaff consults at Canberra Hospital and National Capital Paediatrics, and performs surgery at both Canberra Hospital and Calvary John James Hospital.