The Margin VSSO Podcast

Join us on this special episode of The Margin as we sit down with Dr. Megan Mickelson, VSSO Conference Chair, to recap the highlights of the 2026 VCS/VSSO Collaborative Conference held in Savannah, Georgia. From groundbreaking advances in metastasis research and fluorescence-guided surgery to emerging technologies like augmented reality and evolving approaches to multimodal cancer care, we explore the presentations and conversations that generated the most excitement. Whether you attended the conference or couldn't make it this year, this episode provides a behind-the-scenes look at the innovations, collaborations, and future directions shaping veterinary surgical oncology.

In this episode of The Margin: Getting to Know the Board, we’re joined by the Research Committee—Drs. Brandan Janssens and Mirja Nolff, co-chairs, along with committee members Dr. Giovanni Tremolada and Dr. Jim Perry. As they step into their new roles, the team shares their vision for advancing research in veterinary surgical oncology, why committee service matters, and what they’re most excited to work on in the year ahead. Tune in for a behind-the-scenes look at the group helping shape the future of research in our field.

In this episode of The Margin: Getting to Know the Board, we sit down with Dr. Bernard Séguin, Treasurer, and Dr. Jonathan Ferrari, Secretary. Join us for a fun, behind-the-scenes look at the leaders who keep our organization running smoothly. Drs. Séguin and Ferrari discuss what drew them to their roles, how they support the board’s mission, and what they’re looking forward to in the coming year. Tune in to meet the people managing the details, the documents, and the dollars that keep our community moving forward!

In this episode of The Margin: Getting to Know the Board, we sit down with Dr. Owen Skinner, current President and Dr. Maureen Griffin, President Elect. Join us for a fun and insightful conversation about leadership, mentorship, and the vision for the future of our organization. Drs. Skinner and Griffin share what inspires their work, how they collaborate to drive new initiatives, and what they're most excited about for the year ahead. Tune in to meet the leaders shaping the next chapter of the Veterinary Society of Surgical Oncology!

In the second episode of our two-part series with Dr. Diego Portela, we dive into the specifics of regional anesthesia techniques for oncologic procedures. Dr. Portela breaks down the most effective nerve blocks, including those for hindlimb amputations, abdominal surgeries, and thoracic procedures, and discusses the role of ultrasound guidance in these techniques. Learn how these innovative approaches to pain management are improving surgical outcomes and enhancing the quality of life for veterinary cancer patients.

In the first episode of this two-part series, we sit down with Dr. Diego Portela, a board-certified veterinary anesthesiologist, to explore the critical role of regional anesthesia in cancer patients. Dr. Portela explains why locoregional blocks are essential for managing pain in oncologic surgeries, the unique benefits they offer for cancer patients, and how these techniques align with the principles of Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) in veterinary medicine. Tune in to learn how these advanced anesthesia strategies are transforming cancer care.

Join us for this exciting Pub Session panel discussion on management of maxillofacial surgery/RT complications with Drs. Stephanie Goldschmidt, Janis Lapley, and Kim Selting.

Join us on this episode of the “The Margin” as we sit down with Dr. Kendra Pope, a leading veterinary integrative oncologist. We explore the concept of integrative oncology, why it’s becoming a critical part of cancer care for veterinary patients, and the science behind it. Dr. Pope shares insights on how combining traditional cancer therapies with integrative approaches can enhance patient outcomes and improve quality of life. Tune in to learn about the latest research, ongoing clinical trials, and how integrative oncology is shaping the future of veterinary medicine.

in this episode we sit down with two remarkable individuals who defied traditional career paths to secure positions in competitive Surgical Oncology fellowship. Listen as they share their unique journeys – from unexpected beginnings to navigating the challenges of fellowship training. Gain insights into the diverse experiences that shapes their careers, and discover what it takes to succeed in the world of Surgical Oncology, even when your path is anything, but conventional.

On tonight's Pubsession, Dr. Bernard Seguin takes a deep dive into bone tumors. Dr. Seguin obtained his DVM from the University of Montreal. He performed a small animal internship at the University of Illinois. He was in small animal general private practice before completing a masters of science and small animal surgery residency at Washington State University. He then went on to fulfill his fellowship in surgical oncology at Colorado State University. He was on faculty at the University of California, Davis, and Oregon State University, and was a full professor of surgical oncology at the Flint animal cancer center at Colorado State University. He is currently a surgical oncologist at Central Victoria veterinary hospital in Victoria British Columbia, Canada. Dr. Seguin is the co-editor of the textbook veterinary Surgical Oncology now in a second edition. He is an ACVS founding fellow of Surgical Oncology, and an ACVS founding fellow of oral and maxillofacial surgery.