O’Doherty family secures compensation for mental distress after mother of three suffers fatal cardiac arrest during dental surgery in Sandyford Dublin

A routine dental procedure turned into a devastating tragedy for the O’Doherty family when 72-year-old Margaret O’Doherty suffered a cardiac arrest during an implant surgery at Dublin Specialist Dentistry in Sandyford.

Despite efforts to save her, Margaret died five days later in hospital, leaving behind her husband Michael and three children.

The case, which had captured national attention due to the unusual circumstances, has now been settled in the High Court.

While the settlement provides a measure of recognition for the family’s suffering, it comes without any admission of liability from the dental clinic or the surgeons involved.

What Happened During the Procedure

On August 18, 2020, Margaret O’Doherty attended the clinic to have seven dental implants inserted under conscious sedation.

The procedure was expected to last around four hours.

According to court records, after five of the seven implants were successfully placed, she went into cardiac arrest.

Emergency services were called immediately, and she was rushed to hospital.

Despite intensive care, Margaret passed away five days later.

The family’s legal team argued that excessive doses of intravenous sedatives and local anaesthetic may have contributed to her cardiac arrest, though these claims were formally denied by the defendants.

Legal Proceedings and Settlement

The High Court proceedings focused primarily on the division of a €35,000 mental distress solatium, rather than establishing fault.

The case was settled after mediation, with Justice Paul Coffey approving the division of the payment.

In his remarks, he extended his deepest sympathy to the O’Doherty family, who were not present in court.

The lawsuit had named oral surgeon Seamus Rogers and prosthodontist Maurice Fitzgerald, who were operating with Dublin Specialist Dentistry at the time.

The legal action was initiated by Margaret’s husband, Michael, highlighting concerns over the administration and monitoring of sedation during the procedure, as well as consideration of her age, weight, and overall health.

Coroner’s Verdict and Recommendations

Three years prior, the Coroners Court returned a verdict of medical misadventure.

The coroner issued three key recommendations to the Dental Council, including updating codes of practice for the administration of sedation and general anaesthesia and ensuring resuscitation protocols reflect modern outpatient procedures.

Margaret’s family has expressed a strong desire for these recommendations to be fully implemented, hoping that future patients will be protected from similar tragedies.

Family’s Concerns and Reflections

Counsel for the O’Doherty family, Bruce Antoniotti, described the case as “particularly sad and tragic.”

He emphasized that the family’s priority is ensuring that such incidents are not repeated.

The settlement, while providing a financial acknowledgment of mental distress, does not resolve broader concerns about patient safety and standards in outpatient dental procedures.

What’s Next?

The O’Doherty family continues to advocate for stricter adherence to the coroner’s recommendations, pushing for regulatory updates and training in dental sedation practices.

For the wider public, this case raises awareness about the importance of patient safety, thorough risk assessment, and proper monitoring during even routine dental procedures.

Summary

Margaret O’Doherty’s death during a dental implant procedure shocked her family and highlighted risks associated with sedation in outpatient dental care.

A High Court settlement provided a €35,000 solatium for mental distress, without admitting liability.

The coroner’s medical misadventure verdict and accompanying recommendations underscore the need for updated dental safety protocols, a cause the family hopes will prevent future tragedies.