Scottsdale, Arizona – What began as a routine dental implant appointment for a 40-year-old Arizona man ended in tragedy after complications related to anesthesia caused a fatal brain injury. Nearly two years later, his family has confirmed that a legal settlement has been reached with the dentist and dental practice involved, according to their attorneys.
A Routine Appointment That Took a Devastating Turn
In March 2023, Derek Swanson visited a Scottsdale oral surgery clinic for a planned tooth implant procedure. Just before the appointment, Swanson shared a lighthearted social media post from the dental chair, writing that the “fun never stops,” a moment his family now remembers with heartbreak.
According to his mother, Brenda Swanson, Derek had been enthusiastic about improving his dental health and had already undergone several successful procedures. The implant appointment was expected to be another straightforward step forward.
Instead, complications during the administration of anesthesia allegedly caused Swanson to be deprived of oxygen, resulting in a catastrophic brain injury.
What Happened Inside the Procedure Room
Court filings later alleged that Dr. Derek Lamb and Scottsdale Facial and Oral Surgery committed multiple failures while managing Swanson’s anesthesia during the procedure…