7-Year-Old Girl Dies from Cardiac Arrest During Dental Procedure Under General Anesthesia in Turkey

A 7-year-old Turkish girl named Ela Kocacogur died after suffering cardiac arrest during a dental procedure under general anesthesia at a private hospital in Isparta. Ela, a second-grade student from Bordur in southwestern Turkey, was admitted on July 3 for treatment of multiple cavities. Doctors decided to perform eight fillings in a single session under general anesthesia due to her young age and fear of dental treatments.

During the operation, Ela’s heart stopped while still in the operating room. Medical staff attempted resuscitation but were unsuccessful. Her family filed an official complaint with the prosecutor’s office, prompting an investigation into the circumstances of her death. Concerns were raised about whether all necessary pre-anesthesia tests, including allergy and blood tests, were conducted, the dosage of anesthesia administered, and if a qualified anesthesiologist was present throughout the procedure as required by Turkish medical regulations.

The private hospital issued a statement asserting that all medical protocols were followed and described the cardiac arrest as an unforeseeable complication. The incident has sparked a debate in Turkey regarding the safety of extensive dental treatments under general anesthesia for children in private hospitals. Some experts argue that complex procedures on young children should be performed in specialized hospitals equipped with dedicated pediatric emergency teams.

Naim Shaniort, president of the Isparta Dental Association, expressed deep sorrow over Ela’s death and confirmed that legal and professional investigations are underway, with potential disciplinary actions if negligence is found.