ABOUT THIS COURSE
This three-day hands-on course equips veterinarians to close challenging skin defects with confidence. Paired lectures and cadaver labs progress from tension-relieving techniques and local subdermal plexus flaps to axial pattern flaps, free skin grafts, and reconstruction of the face, digits, perineum and pelvic limb. Daily surgical challenges culminate in a final competition for the Golden Needle Holder Award. This course combines surgical prowess with teamwork and having fun.
Cutaneous Reconstructive Techniques
Date: January 21 - 23, 2027
Venue: Viticus Group, Oquendo Center | Las Vegas, NV
Category: Surgery - General
Enrollment Capacity: 48
CE Hours: 24
Cost: $3,360
Instructors:
Jolle Kirpensteijn, DVM, PhD, DACVS
Bryden Stanley, BVMS, DVM, MVETSC, DACVS, MACVSc
Katy Townsend, DVM, BVSC (HONS)
Kathleen Ham, DVM, MS, DACVS
Kathryn Pitt, DVM, MS, DACVS (SA)
Registration Deadline: January 14, 2027
LEARNING OBJECTIVES
| Assess a skin defect and select the most appropriate closure or reconstruction technique based on wound size, location and available skin. |
| Perform tension-relieving techniques and local subdermal plexus flaps, including advancement, rotation, transposition and skinfold flaps. |
| Identify anatomic landmarks for and raise the major axial pattern flaps of the trunk, perineum and pelvic limb. |
| Apply reconstruction techniques for the face, eyelids and digits, including lip-to-lid flaps and phalangeal filet. |
| Describe principles of open wound management and free skin grafting, including indications and aftercare. |
| Recognize causes of flap and graft failure and apply strategies to prevent and manage complications. |
LAB INSTRUCTORS
Jolle Kirpensteijn, DVM, PhD, DACVS
Bryden Stanley, BVMS, MSc, MANZCVS, MRCVS, DACVS
Katy Townsend, DVM, BVSC (HONS)
Kathleen Ham, DVM, MS, DACVS
Kathryn Pitt, DVM, MS, DACVS (SA)
HOTEL AND TRAVEL TIPS

HOTEL ACCOMMODATIONS AND TRAVEL TIPS
Make your trip to the Viticus Center easier with preferred hotel rates, convenient transportation options, and everything you need to know before you arrive.
Preferred Hotel Rates Available
Viticus Group participants receive special lodging discounts at our preferred partner hotels near the Viticus Center. Use Corporate Account Code 3458691 when booking.
BOOKING YOUR HOTEL STAY
Hampton Inn - Las Vegas Strip South
Visit the hotel website and begin your reservation. Under Special Rates, enter 3458691 in the Corporate Account field.
Home2 Suites by Hilton Las Vegas Strip South
Visit the hotel website and begin your reservation. Under Special Rates, enter 3458691 in the Corporate Account field.
DINING & REFRESHMENTS
- Preferred partner hotels offer a hot breakfast buffet beginning at 6 a.m. Viticus Group does not serve breakfast.
- Hot and cold beverages and snacks are available in the Viticus Center lobby during your course.
- Lunch is provided during full, 8-hour lab days.
- Have dietary restrictions? Email Academy@viticusgroup.org before your course so our catering team can prepare accordingly.
WHAT TO BRING
- Closed-toe shoes are required during labs.
- Scrubs are available upon arrival if needed.
- Bring a light sweater or jacket for cooler indoor spaces.
- Pack sunscreen for time outdoors in Las Vegas.
- Bring a phone charger or portable power bank.
- Carry a valid photo ID with you while traveling in Las Vegas.
AIRPORT & HOTEL TRANSPORTATION
Airport Pickup:
Hotel airport pickup is available upon request, 24 hours a day. Once you have retrieved your luggage, contact your hotel for shuttle pickup instructions and the designated waiting location.
Hotel to Harry Reid International Airport:
Reserve your return shuttle at the hotel front desk. Shuttles typically run once per hour, and guests should sign up at least 2 hours before their desired departure time.
SHUTTLES AND TRANSPORTATION

TRANSPORTATION
Viticus Group provides complimentary transportation between our preferred partner hotels and the Viticus Center during your course.
Daily Shuttle Service
Morning shuttle service is provided from our preferred partner hotels before the start of your course. At the end of each course day, shuttle service will return you to your hotel.
Last-Day Transportation
On the final day of your course, transportation is available to Harry Reid International Airport or back to your preferred partner hotel. Complimentary luggage storage is available at the Viticus Center during the course day.
Driving Yourself?
If you are a Las Vegas local or plan to drive yourself, please arrive at the Oquendo or Eastern Campus at least 30 minutes before your course start time.
Please refer to your course agenda and email updates for specific shuttle departure and transportation times.
OTHER TRANSPORTATION OPTIONS
Public transportation options in Las Vegas are limited. If you are staying somewhere other than one of our preferred partner hotels, you will be responsible for arranging transportation to and from the Viticus Center.
Rental cars, taxis, Uber, and Lyft are available throughout Las Vegas. If renting a vehicle, keep in mind that Mandalay Bay, Luxor, and other Strip properties may charge for parking.


