Medical Malpractice
Girl in Coma After Routine Dental Procedure
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September 27th, 2006
"Dental Procedure Caused Girl to Fall Into Coma"
A five-year-old girl is still in a coma after undergoing routine dental surgery that required anesthesia. During the procedure to cap some teeth and fill two cavities, Diamond Brown allegedly stopped breathing and failed to regain consciousness after she was sedated.
Diamond has sustained organ damage and is still in critical condition, according to her mother Ommettress Travis.
Experts say that while the use of anesthesia, particularly on children may pose serious risks, the percentage remains very small. Furthermore, monitoring patients frequently as they are anesthetized and during their recovery is vital, experts added.
“If all protocols are followed, these should be safe procedures,” said Dr. Indru Punwani, head of pediatric dentistry at the University of Illinois.
According to Travis, she took her daughter to Dr. Hicham K. Riba for a first-time dental consultation in which he determined the young girl would need a six-tooth operation. On Saturday morning, before the routine surgery, Diamond was given nitrous oxide and was sedated with an IV while her mother waited for her outside.
Travis says that she was never told what sedatives or how much Diamond was being given, nor was she ever made aware of the potential risks to her daughter. When Travis entered the room after the procedure, she saw Diamond lying still in the dentist''s chair.
“Diamond''s head rolled back and her eyes were in the back of her head,” said Travis. “She wasn''t breathing. No movement. No nothing.”
A statement issued by Riba claims that his patients are all closely monitored and never alone during their procedures. He also adds that everyone on the staff has CPR training.
Records found that Riba is a licensed dentist and also carries a dental-sedation permit and a dentist controlled substance license. He has had no previous disciplinary action against him.
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