We Need to Talk: Resolving Case Complications with Communication

Includes a Live In-Person Event on 11/04/2026 at 6:01 PM (EST)

Surgical complications are an unavoidable part of practice, but the way they are discussed among all parties often determines whether a challenging case becomes a source of collaboration, conflict, or fractured trust. This interactive webinar uses real-world large and small animal surgical scenarios to explore the difficult conversations that arise among surgeons, primary care veterinarians, clients, and clinical teams.

Rather than focusing on the technical details of each case, the session invites residents to step back from the clinician cap and examine the communication decisions that shape client perception, referral relationships, case continuity, and professional collegiality. Residents in both large and small animal surgery will gain practical strategies for navigating situations when expectations diverge, outcomes are imperfect, or communication is delayed, incomplete, or misunderstood.

Emphasis will be placed on using the ACVS Collaborative Relationship Communication Tool to proactively clarify roles, timelines, follow-up responsibilities, client messaging, and shared decision-making between the specialist and primary care veterinarian. By examining difficult cases through a communication lens, this lecture aims to help residents build the professional habits needed to preserve trust, reduce conflict, and improve patient outcomes through stronger teamwork.

This webinar is complimentary for ACVS Diplomates and surgery residents to attend; however, registration is required.

Agenda

Jude Bordelon, DVM, MS, MBA, DACVS (Small Animal), will facilitate the webinar.

CE credit

This webinar is awaiting approval for 1 hour of continuing education in jurisdictions which recognize the American Association of Veterinary State Boards’ (AAVSB) Registry of Approved Continuing Education (RACE).

Webinar Length: 1 hour CE Credits: 1 credit MOC: 1 point