Facts

Plaintiff, Theresa Nakhla, underwent dental implant surgery at UCLA. Shortly following the procedure, Plaintiff began to experience constant headaches. Post-operative imaging showed that two upper anterior implants penetrated into the base of her nose and that two upper posterior implants penetrated into her sinuses.

Plaintiff subsequently had the two anterior implants removed and claimed improvement in her headaches thereafter.

PLAINTIFF'S CONTENTIONS:
Plaintiff contended that the penetration of the implants into the base of the nose and sinuses was causing her headaches and other associated symptoms. Plaintiff claimed that there was a delay at UCLA in recognizing the complication and referring the patient out for specialty care.

DEFENDANT'S CONTENTIONS:
Defendant contended that placement of the implants into the base of the nose and sinuses was a known complication associated with dental implant surgery and caused no injury to the patient.

Result

Defense verdict on causation.

Other Information

FILING DATE: Sept. 29, 2009.

Deliberation

two days

Poll

9-3 (for plaintiff on standard of care, 11-1 for defendant on causation)

Length

seven days