It's a rare thing in medicine, but when I find true professional, willing to talk openly about approach to problems in patient care...it can be magical. But it supposes for even an instant that all parties open their minds beyond "what's done here" and their own prejudices. I've learned so much that way. There are MANY ways to do almost everything in medicine. I can watch 5 people sew up the same wound 5 different ways. The knee has at least 8 approaches (if not more) for arthrocentesis.
Having such discussion usually happen late at night, in corners of intensive care units with like minded providers. They are insightful glimpses into the genius that is in most of us when others truly listen and open their minds to the possibilities. It's also about deferring such discussions from the presence of the patient and others so we don't feel the need to prove ourselves.
I am so surrounded by ego, and it's "my way or the highway" mentality that we often miss the point, and allow the patient to suffer in the process. But even during long, long days engulfed in 90 hour work weeks, there is still some possibility of finding our higher selves in spite of the attack of ego of others. It's better for the practitioner, better for the practice of medicine and better for the patient.
Let us not look back in anger or forward in fear, but around in awareness. 
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