Studying online

There are now 2 possible online modes for units:

Units with modes Online timetabled and Online flexible are available for any student to self-enrol and study online.

Click on an offering mode for more details.

Unit Overview

Description

This unit covers theoretical knowledge essential in the management of neonates with surgical conditions. Special focus is on having a high index of diagnostic suspicion, early diagnosis and initial stabilisation prior to transfer to a tertiary surgical neonatal unit.

The unit includes (1) gastrointestinal—malrotation, volvulus; Hirschsprung's disease; hypertrophic pyloric stenosis, inguinal hernias, bilious vomiting, imperforate anus, gastroschisis, exampholos; (2) thoracic—oesophageal atresia/tracheo-oesophageal fistula; congenital diaphragmatic hernia; (3) urology—posterior urethral valves; dilatation of renal pelves detected on antenatal ultrasounds; (4) biliary—biliary atresia; conjugated hyperbilirubinemia, pale coloured stools; (5) ear, nose and throat—choanal atresia on other nasal obstructive conditions such as pyriform aperture stenosis; (6) plastic surgical conditions—cleft lip and palate; Pierre Robin sequence; soft tissue infiltration injuries, hemangioma, lymphangiomas; (7) cardiac—how to suspect heart disease, role of clinical examination and pulse oximetry; use of prostaglandin E1 in duct dependent lesions; (8) hips—developmental dysplasia of the hip, importance of clinical examination, usefulness of ultrasound, early referral to minimise morbidity; (9) eyes—cataract, retinoblastoma, importance of examination of eyes for red reflex; (10) orthopaedic—talipes, Hemivertebra, congenital scoliosis, developmental dysplasia of hips; and (11) neurology—hydrocephalus, subgaleal haemorrhage and spina bifida (especially occulta).

Credit
6 points
Offering
AvailabilityLocationMode
Not available in 2025OnlineOnline flexible
Outcomes

Students are able to (1) have a good knowledge of the commonly encountered neonatal surgical conditions; (2) have a sound knowledge in early diagnosis and initial stabilisation; (3) have some understanding of operative procedures and pre and post-operative management; and (4) identify danger signs of neonatal surgical conditions and make early referral.

Assessment

Indicative assessments in this unit are as follows: (1) a two-hour end-of-semester examination; (2) three topic presentations over the course of semester; and (3) three case presentations over the course of semester. Further information is available in the unit outline.



Student may be offered supplementary assessment in this unit if they meet the eligibility criteria.

  • The availability of units in Semester 1, 2, etc. was correct at the time of publication but may be subject to change.
  • All students are responsible for identifying when they need assistance to improve their academic learning, research, English language and numeracy skills; seeking out the services and resources available to help them; and applying what they learn. Students are encouraged to register for free online support through GETSmart; to help themselves to the extensive range of resources on UWA's STUDYSmarter website; and to participate in WRITESmart and (ma+hs)Smart drop-ins and workshops.
  • Visit the Essential Textbooks website to see if any textbooks are required for this Unit. The website is updated regularly so content may change. Students are recommended to purchase Essential Textbooks, but a limited number of copies of all Essential Textbooks are held in the Library in print, and as an ebook where possible. Recommended readings for the unit can be accessed in Unit Readings directly through the Learning Management System (LMS).
  • Contact hours provide an indication of the type and extent of in-class activities this unit may contain. The total amount of student work (including contact hours, assessment time, and self-study) will approximate 150 hours per 6 credit points.