Aortic aneurysm: Ascending, thoracic, or abdominal
Aortic aneurysm: Ascending, thoracic, or abdominal is rated under 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.104, Diagnostic Code 7110, from 0% to 100% based on the frequency and functional severity of symptoms. The maximum 100% rating requires: Evaluate at 100 percent if the aneurysm is any one of the following: Five centimeters or larger in diameter; symptomatic (e.g., precludes exertion); or requires surgery. Most claims establish the 0% or 60% rating before reaching the top tier.
What are the VA rating criteria for Aortic aneurysm: Ascending, thoracic, or abdominal?
Otherwise
Note: Surveillance with periodic imaging (ultrasound or CT) is standard of care for aneurysms < 5.5 cm. Rate based on functional limitation and intervention.
Aortic aneurysm: Moderate to large aneurysm (4.5–5.5 cm) with symptoms (back or abdominal pain) or rapid growth; requiring medical management with beta-blockers; awaiting surgical or endovascular repair; workload limitation > 5 METs.
Evaluate at 100 percent if the aneurysm is any one of the following: Five centimeters or larger in diameter; symptomatic (e.g., precludes exertion); or requires surgery
Note: Following surgical repair, rate by residuals at a minimum of 6 months post-procedure. Common residuals include hypertension, renal impairment, neurological complications.
“Aortic aneurysm: Moderate to large aneurysm (4.5–5.5 cm) with symptoms (back or abdominal pain) or rapid growth; requiring medical management with beta-blockers; awaiting surgical or endovascular repair; workload limitation > 5 METs.”
Common Questions About Aortic aneurysm: Ascending, thoracic, or abdominal VA Ratings
What is the VA rating range for Aortic aneurysm: Ascending, thoracic, or abdominal?
The VA rates Aortic aneurysm: Ascending, thoracic, or abdominal under Diagnostic Code 7110 at 0%, 60%, 100%. The minimum 0% rating requires: Otherwise. The maximum 100% rating requires: Evaluate at 100 percent if the aneurysm is any one of the following: Five centimeters or larger in diameter; symptomatic (e.g., precludes exertion); or requires surgery.
Which 38 CFR diagnostic code does the VA use for Aortic aneurysm: Ascending, thoracic, or abdominal?
The VA rates Aortic aneurysm: Ascending, thoracic, or abdominal under Diagnostic Code (DC) 7110, governed by 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.104. The diagnostic code establishes the specific rating tiers and severity criteria the VA examiner applies.
What is the difference between a 0% and a 100% rating for Aortic aneurysm: Ascending, thoracic, or abdominal?
A 0% rating requires: Otherwise. A 100% rating requires: Evaluate at 100 percent if the aneurysm is any one of the following: Five centimeters or larger in diameter; symptomatic (e.g., precludes exertion); or requires surgery. The difference typically reflects the frequency, severity, or functional impact of the condition as documented in medical records and C&P examination findings.
Can Aortic aneurysm: Ascending, thoracic, or abdominal qualify for TDIU (Total Disability Individual Unemployability)?
Veterans rated for Aortic aneurysm: Ascending, thoracic, or abdominal may qualify for TDIU if the condition — alone or in combination with other service-connected disabilities — prevents substantially gainful employment. A single disability rated at 60% or higher (or multiple disabilities combining to 70%, with one at 40%) can support a TDIU claim under 38 CFR § 4.16.
What evidence do I need to establish service connection for Aortic aneurysm: Ascending, thoracic, or abdominal?
Service connection for Aortic aneurysm: Ascending, thoracic, or abdominal requires three elements: (1) a current diagnosis of the condition, (2) an in-service event, injury, or disease, and (3) a medical nexus linking the current diagnosis to that in-service occurrence. A nexus letter from a treating or independent medical examiner is the most reliable nexus evidence.
What is the C&P exam like for Aortic aneurysm: Ascending, thoracic, or abdominal?
A Compensation & Pension (C&P) exam for Aortic aneurysm: Ascending, thoracic, or abdominal uses a Disability Benefits Questionnaire (DBQ) specific to the body system involved. The examiner documents the frequency, severity, and functional impact of your symptoms. Bring all relevant treatment records and be prepared to describe your worst-day symptoms — the examiner rates your condition based on the full clinical picture, not a single visit.
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