Three dentists to face trial over death of 23-year-old patient

A trial is scheduled to begin on January 20 for three dentists accused of manslaughter following the death of 23-year-old Gaia Pagliuca. The defendants include the owner of the dental practice where the procedure took place and his two daughters, who are also dentists.

The case centers on a routine dental procedure performed in 2024. Following the administration of anesthesia, Pagliuca suffered a medical emergency that led to cardiac arrest. She was subsequently admitted to the intensive care unit at a hospital in Perugia, where she passed away on September 29, 2024.

Prosecutors allege that the death was caused by negligence, imprudence, and malpractice. Specifically, the indictment claims there was an overdose of anesthetic and that the emergency response and resuscitation attempts were inadequate and failed to follow established clinical guidelines.