During consent for elective mandibular implant surgery, an adult patient with capacity says that even a small risk of persistent lower-lip altered

Question

During consent for elective mandibular implant surgery, an adult patient with capacity says that even a small risk of persistent lower-lip altered sensation would affect their decision because they are a professional wind-instrument player. The dentist believes that a responsible body of dentists would not routinely disclose the risk at its estimated frequency. Which statement most accurately reflects the standard established by Montgomery v Lanarkshire Health Board [2015]?

Accepted Answer

The risk must be discussed because this particular patient would likely attach significance to it; reasonable alternative or variant treatments must also be discussed.

Answer

The risk need only be discussed if its numerical probability exceeds a defined threshold; the seriousness of its consequences is otherwise irrelevant.

Answer

The risk need only be discussed if a responsible body of dentists would routinely disclose it; the patient's individual priorities do not alter materiality.

Answer

The risk need not be discussed individually if it appears on a signed consent form listing the standard complications of implant treatment.

Answer

The duty concerns material risks of the recommended treatment only; reasonable alternative or variant treatments remain solely a matter of clinical judgement.

Montgomery Ruling — MFDS Part 1 MCQ