Cholecystectomy (gallbladder removal), complications of (such as strictures and biliary leaks)
Cholecystectomy (gallbladder removal), complications of (such as strictures and biliary leaks) is rated under 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.114, Diagnostic Code 7318, from 0% to 30% based on the frequency and functional severity of symptoms. The maximum 30% rating requires: With recurrent abdominal pain (post-prandial or nocturnal); and chronic diarrhea characterized by three or more watery bowel movements per day. Most claims establish the 0% or 10% rating before reaching the top tier.
Rating schedule — DC 7318 at a glance
- Minimum rating
- 0%
- Maximum rating
- 30%
- Rating tiers
- 3
- CFR section
- 38 CFR § 4.114
- Body system
- Digestive System
- Secondary conditions
- 0
Lowest schedular rating available
TDIU may raise effective compensation to 100%
0%, 10%, 30%
Part 4 rating schedule
None mapped
What are the VA rating criteria for Cholecystectomy (gallbladder removal), complications of (such as strictures and biliary leaks)?
Asymptomatic
With intermittent abdominal pain; and diarrhea characterized by one to two watery bowel movements per day
With recurrent abdominal pain (post-prandial or nocturnal); and chronic diarrhea characterized by three or more watery bowel movements per day
“With intermittent abdominal pain; and diarrhea characterized by one to two watery bowel movements per day”
Common Questions About Cholecystectomy (gallbladder removal), complications of (such as strictures and biliary leaks) VA Ratings
What is the VA rating range for Cholecystectomy (gallbladder removal), complications of (such as strictures and biliary leaks)?
The VA rates Cholecystectomy (gallbladder removal), complications of (such as strictures and biliary leaks) under Diagnostic Code 7318 at 0%, 10%, 30%. The minimum 0% rating requires: Asymptomatic. The maximum 30% rating requires: With recurrent abdominal pain (post-prandial or nocturnal); and chronic diarrhea characterized by three or more watery bowel movements per day.
Which 38 CFR diagnostic code does the VA use for Cholecystectomy (gallbladder removal), complications of (such as strictures and biliary leaks)?
The VA rates Cholecystectomy (gallbladder removal), complications of (such as strictures and biliary leaks) under Diagnostic Code (DC) 7318, governed by 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.114. The diagnostic code establishes the specific rating tiers and severity criteria the VA examiner applies.
What is the difference between a 0% and a 30% rating for Cholecystectomy (gallbladder removal), complications of (such as strictures and biliary leaks)?
A 0% rating requires: Asymptomatic. A 30% rating requires: With recurrent abdominal pain (post-prandial or nocturnal); and chronic diarrhea characterized by three or more watery bowel movements per day. The difference typically reflects the frequency, severity, or functional impact of the condition as documented in medical records and C&P examination findings.
Can Cholecystectomy (gallbladder removal), complications of (such as strictures and biliary leaks) qualify for TDIU (Total Disability Individual Unemployability)?
Veterans rated for Cholecystectomy (gallbladder removal), complications of (such as strictures and biliary leaks) 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 Cholecystectomy (gallbladder removal), complications of (such as strictures and biliary leaks)?
Service connection for Cholecystectomy (gallbladder removal), complications of (such as strictures and biliary leaks) 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 Cholecystectomy (gallbladder removal), complications of (such as strictures and biliary leaks)?
A Compensation & Pension (C&P) exam for Cholecystectomy (gallbladder removal), complications of (such as strictures and biliary leaks) 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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