Hip, resurfacing or replacement (prosthesis)
Hip, resurfacing or replacement (prosthesis) is rated under 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5054, from 30% to 100% based on the frequency and functional severity of symptoms. The maximum 100% rating requires: For 4 months following implantation of prosthesis or resurfacing. Most claims establish the 30% or 50% rating before reaching the top tier.
Rating schedule — DC 5054 at a glance
- Minimum rating
- 30%
- Maximum rating
- 100%
- Rating tiers
- 5
- CFR section
- 38 CFR § 4.71a
- Body system
- Musculoskeletal System
- Secondary conditions
- 1
Lowest schedular rating available
Full schedular disability
30%, 50%, 70%, 90%, 100%
Part 4 rating schedule
Mapped in our database
What are the VA rating criteria for Hip, resurfacing or replacement (prosthesis)?
Minimum evaluation, total replacement only
Note: Following implantation, a 100% rating is assigned for 1 year following prosthetic replacement. Thereafter, the minimum rating is 30%. Rate on residuals (chronic residuals consisting of severe painful motion or weakness).
Moderately severe residuals of weakness, pain or limitation of motion
Markedly severe residual weakness, pain or limitation of motion following implantation of prosthesis
Prosthetic replacement of the head of the femur or of the acetabulum with chronic residuals consisting of severe painful motion or weakness in the affected extremity.
For 4 months following implantation of prosthesis or resurfacing
Note: The 100% rating is assigned for 1 year following the date of implantation. After 1 year, the disability is rated on residuals, with a minimum 30% rating.
“Markedly severe residual weakness, pain or limitation of motion following implantation of prosthesis”
Which conditions are commonly secondary to Hip, resurfacing or replacement (prosthesis)?
View 1 secondary condition linked to Hip, resurfacing or replacement (prosthesis)
Medical rationale, evidence strength, and filing tips — rated under 38 CFR § 3.310
Common Questions About Hip, resurfacing or replacement (prosthesis) VA Ratings
What is the VA rating range for Hip, resurfacing or replacement (prosthesis)?
The VA rates Hip, resurfacing or replacement (prosthesis) under Diagnostic Code 5054 at 30%, 50%, 70%, 90%, 100%. The minimum 30% rating requires: Minimum evaluation, total replacement only. The maximum 100% rating requires: For 4 months following implantation of prosthesis or resurfacing.
Which 38 CFR diagnostic code does the VA use for Hip, resurfacing or replacement (prosthesis)?
The VA rates Hip, resurfacing or replacement (prosthesis) under Diagnostic Code (DC) 5054, governed by 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.71a. The diagnostic code establishes the specific rating tiers and severity criteria the VA examiner applies.
What is the difference between a 30% and a 100% rating for Hip, resurfacing or replacement (prosthesis)?
A 30% rating requires: Minimum evaluation, total replacement only. A 100% rating requires: For 4 months following implantation of prosthesis or resurfacing. The difference typically reflects the frequency, severity, or functional impact of the condition as documented in medical records and C&P examination findings.
Can Hip, resurfacing or replacement (prosthesis) qualify for TDIU (Total Disability Individual Unemployability)?
Veterans rated for Hip, resurfacing or replacement (prosthesis) 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 Hip, resurfacing or replacement (prosthesis)?
Service connection for Hip, resurfacing or replacement (prosthesis) 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.
Which conditions are commonly secondary to Hip, resurfacing or replacement (prosthesis)?
Hip, resurfacing or replacement (prosthesis) is associated with 1 documented secondary condition. Secondary conditions caused or aggravated by a service-connected disability are ratable under 38 CFR § 3.310. See the secondary conditions page for the full list with medical rationale and evidence strength ratings.
What is the C&P exam like for Hip, resurfacing or replacement (prosthesis)?
A Compensation & Pension (C&P) exam for Hip, resurfacing or replacement (prosthesis) 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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