The 'Brave Cases - Real Learning' Session Encourages Open Learning at ESCRS 2026

Chaired by Richard Packard, Claudette Abela-Formanek and Ruth Lapid-Gortzak, the session featured six cases drawn from societies affiliated with ESCRS. It gave presenters an opportunity to share experiences that are rarely discussed at Congresses and invited panelists to consider how they would approach similar situations.

Contributions from societies around the world brought different perspectives to each case. Rather than focusing solely on the outcome, the discussion explored the decisions made along the way, the challenges surgeons faced and the approaches colleagues could take when confronted with a comparable complication.

A key theme was how to respond when an operation takes an unexpected turn. Panelists discussed the importance of pausing, remaining composed and taking time to assess the situation before proceeding. They also highlighted the value of preparing alternative plans ahead of surgery, while acknowledging that some developments cannot be predicted.

The session also considered the meaning of bravery in surgical practice. Taking on a complex case can require courage, as can sharing an experience that did not go to plan. By discussing both openly, presenters and panelists helped turn difficult moments into opportunities for collective learning.

“Brave Cases - Real Learning” demonstrated the value of constructive discussion across societies, giving surgeons a space to exchange experience and learn from cases that may otherwise remain unseen.