Gastrointestinal dysmotility syndrome
Gastrointestinal dysmotility syndrome is rated under 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.114, Diagnostic Code 7356, from 10% to 80% based on the frequency and functional severity of symptoms. The maximum 80% rating requires: Requiring complete dependence on total parenteral nutrition (TPN) or continuous tube feeding for nutritional support. Most claims establish the 10% or 30% rating before reaching the top tier.
Rating schedule — DC 7356 at a glance
- Minimum rating
- 10%
- Maximum rating
- 80%
- Rating tiers
- 4
- CFR section
- 38 CFR § 4.114
- Body system
- Digestive System
- Secondary conditions
- 0
Lowest schedular rating available
TDIU may raise effective compensation to 100%
10%, 30%, 50%, 80%
Part 4 rating schedule
None mapped
What are the VA rating criteria for Gastrointestinal dysmotility syndrome?
Intermittent abdominal pain with epigastric fullness associated with bloating; and without evidence of a structural gastrointestinal disease
With symptoms of chronic intestinal pseudo-obstruction (CIPO) or symptoms of intestinal motility disorder, including but not limited to, abdominal pain, bloating, feeling of epigastric fullness, dyspepsia, nausea and vomiting, regurgitation, constipation, and diarrhea, managed by ambulatory care; and requiring prescribed dietary management or manipulation
Requiring intermittent tube feeding for nutritional support; with recurrent emergency treatment for episodes of intestinal obstruction or regurgitation due to poor gastric emptying, abdominal pain, recurrent nausea, or recurrent vomiting
Requiring complete dependence on total parenteral nutrition (TPN) or continuous tube feeding for nutritional support
“Requiring intermittent tube feeding for nutritional support; with recurrent emergency treatment for episodes of intestinal obstruction or regurgitation due to poor gastric emptying, abdominal pain, recurrent nausea, or recurrent vomiting”
Common Questions About Gastrointestinal dysmotility syndrome VA Ratings
What is the VA rating range for Gastrointestinal dysmotility syndrome?
The VA rates Gastrointestinal dysmotility syndrome under Diagnostic Code 7356 at 10%, 30%, 50%, 80%. The minimum 10% rating requires: Intermittent abdominal pain with epigastric fullness associated with bloating; and without evidence of a structural gastrointestinal disease. The maximum 80% rating requires: Requiring complete dependence on total parenteral nutrition (TPN) or continuous tube feeding for nutritional support.
Which 38 CFR diagnostic code does the VA use for Gastrointestinal dysmotility syndrome?
The VA rates Gastrointestinal dysmotility syndrome under Diagnostic Code (DC) 7356, 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 10% and a 80% rating for Gastrointestinal dysmotility syndrome?
A 10% rating requires: Intermittent abdominal pain with epigastric fullness associated with bloating; and without evidence of a structural gastrointestinal disease. A 80% rating requires: Requiring complete dependence on total parenteral nutrition (TPN) or continuous tube feeding for nutritional support. The difference typically reflects the frequency, severity, or functional impact of the condition as documented in medical records and C&P examination findings.
Can Gastrointestinal dysmotility syndrome qualify for TDIU (Total Disability Individual Unemployability)?
Veterans rated for Gastrointestinal dysmotility syndrome 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 Gastrointestinal dysmotility syndrome?
Service connection for Gastrointestinal dysmotility syndrome 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 Gastrointestinal dysmotility syndrome?
A Compensation & Pension (C&P) exam for Gastrointestinal dysmotility syndrome 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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