Cartilage, semilunar, removal of, symptomatic
The VA rates Cartilage, semilunar, removal of, symptomatic under Diagnostic Code 5259 at a single 10% level. With a cap of 10%, most veterans pursue secondary conditions to increase their combined rating.
Rating schedule — DC 5259 at a glance
- Minimum rating
- 10%
- Maximum rating
- 10%
- Rating tiers
- 1
- CFR section
- § 4.71a
- Body system
- Musculoskeletal System
- Secondary conditions
- 0
Lowest schedular rating available
TDIU may raise effective compensation to 100%
10%
Part 4 rating schedule
None mapped
What are the VA rating criteria for Cartilage, semilunar, removal of, symptomatic?
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 10% | Cartilage, semilunar, removal of, symptomatic |
“Cartilage, semilunar, removal of, symptomatic”
Common Questions About Cartilage, semilunar, removal of, symptomatic VA Ratings
What is the VA rating range for Cartilage, semilunar, removal of, symptomatic?
The VA rates Cartilage, semilunar, removal of, symptomatic under Diagnostic Code 5259 at 10%. The minimum 10% rating requires: Cartilage, semilunar, removal of, symptomatic. The maximum 10% rating requires: Cartilage, semilunar, removal of, symptomatic.
Which 38 CFR diagnostic code does the VA use for Cartilage, semilunar, removal of, symptomatic?
The VA rates Cartilage, semilunar, removal of, symptomatic under Diagnostic Code (DC) 5259, governed by 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.71a. The diagnostic code establishes the specific rating tiers and severity criteria the VA examiner applies.
Can Cartilage, semilunar, removal of, symptomatic qualify for TDIU?
Cartilage, semilunar, removal of, symptomatic maxes at 10%, well below the single-disability TDIU threshold. However, combined with other service-connected disabilities, TDIU may be achievable under 38 CFR § 4.16. Focus on establishing secondary conditions to increase the combined rating.
What evidence supports a higher rating for Cartilage, semilunar, removal of, symptomatic?
The key evidence for Cartilage, semilunar, removal of, symptomatic is documentation of how the condition affects daily functioning. For musculoskeletal conditions, range of motion measurements (active, passive, weight-bearing, and non-weight-bearing per Correia v. McDonald) and flare-up documentation are critical. A nexus letter from a qualified medical professional linking the current severity to service is essential for contested claims.
What happens at the C&P exam for Cartilage, semilunar, removal of, symptomatic?
The C&P examiner uses a Musculoskeletal System DBQ and evaluates your condition against the DC 5259 rating criteria. Expect range of motion testing in multiple positions. Under Correia v. McDonald, the examiner must test active, passive, weight-bearing, and non-weight-bearing range of motion. Report your worst flare-up symptoms — if you cannot attend during a flare, request the exam be rescheduled.
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