Code of Conduct
This forum is for constructive discussion. We’re all here because we want to learn from each other, share cases, and build a community where verified surgeons can think out loud and ask hard questions without being torn down for it. The code below is short, but please read it once.
The principle
Healthy disagreement is valuable — we all learn from differing perspectives. But there is a real difference between constructive disagreement and a consistently disagreeable spirit.
Dr. John Gottman’s research on relationships points to a 5:1 ratio of positive to negative interactions as the threshold for things working long term. Communities behave the same way. Encouragement, humor, humility, curiosity, and generosity create environments where people actually want to participate and learn. Without that ratio, the thoughtful contributors quietly leave.
What we ask of you
- Be useful. Cases, pearls, references, real-world experience. Mentor where you can.
- Be kind. Disagree with the post, not the poster. Assume good faith.
- Stay on the case. Stick to the clinical or professional question on the table.
- Encourage more than you correct — especially with residents and newer surgeons.
- Be honest about uncertainty. “I’m not sure, but here’s what I’d try” is more valuable than overstated confidence.
What happens if a thread goes sideways
Admins will gently steer things back, edit clearly toxic content, or as a last resort remove posts and revoke posting access. We’d rather not — the goal is a community where moderation is barely needed because everyone is rowing the same direction.
One last thing
If you’ve learned something useful from a post, say so. A short “this changed how I’d handle that case” goes further than you’d think. Sincere thanks to everyone who consistently contributes wisdom, mentorship, and positivity here.