Laryngectomy, total
Laryngectomy, total is rated under 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.97, Diagnostic Code 6518, from 0% to 50% based on the frequency and functional severity of symptoms. The maximum 50% rating requires: Following radical surgery with chronic osteomyelitis, or; near constant sinusitis characterized by headaches, pain and tenderness of affected sinus, and purulent discharge or crusting after repeated surgeries. Most claims establish the 0% or 10% rating before reaching the top tier.
What are the VA rating criteria for Laryngectomy, total?
Detected by X-ray only
Note: Via General Rating Formula for Sinusitis (DC's 6510 through 6514):
One or two incapacitating episodes per year of sinusitis requiring prolonged (lasting four to six weeks) antibiotic treatment, or; three to six non-incapacitating episodes per year of sinusitis characterized by headaches, pain, and purulent discharge or crusting
Note: Via General Rating Formula for Sinusitis (DC's 6510 through 6514):
Three or more incapacitating episodes per year of sinusitis requiring prolonged (lasting four to six weeks) antibiotic treatment, or; more than six non-incapacitating episodes per year of sinusitis characterized by headaches, pain, and purulent discharge or crusting
Note: Via General Rating Formula for Sinusitis (DC's 6510 through 6514):
Following radical surgery with chronic osteomyelitis, or; near constant sinusitis characterized by headaches, pain and tenderness of affected sinus, and purulent discharge or crusting after repeated surgeries
Note: Via General Rating Formula for Sinusitis (DC's 6510 through 6514):
“Three or more incapacitating episodes per year of sinusitis requiring prolonged (lasting four to six weeks) antibiotic treatment, or; more than six non-incapacitating episodes per year of sinusitis characterized by headaches, pain, and purulent discharge or crusting”
Common Questions About Laryngectomy, total VA Ratings
What is the VA rating range for Laryngectomy, total?
The VA rates Laryngectomy, total under Diagnostic Code 6518 at 0%, 10%, 30%, 50%. The minimum 0% rating requires: Detected by X-ray only. The maximum 50% rating requires: Following radical surgery with chronic osteomyelitis, or; near constant sinusitis characterized by headaches, pain and tenderness of affected sinus, and purulent discharge or crusting after repeated surgeries.
Which 38 CFR diagnostic code does the VA use for Laryngectomy, total?
The VA rates Laryngectomy, total under Diagnostic Code (DC) 6518, governed by 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.97. The diagnostic code establishes the specific rating tiers and severity criteria the VA examiner applies.
What is the difference between a 0% and a 50% rating for Laryngectomy, total?
A 0% rating requires: Detected by X-ray only. A 50% rating requires: Following radical surgery with chronic osteomyelitis, or; near constant sinusitis characterized by headaches, pain and tenderness of affected sinus, and purulent discharge or crusting after repeated surgeries. The difference typically reflects the frequency, severity, or functional impact of the condition as documented in medical records and C&P examination findings.
Can Laryngectomy, total qualify for TDIU (Total Disability Individual Unemployability)?
Veterans rated for Laryngectomy, total 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 Laryngectomy, total?
Service connection for Laryngectomy, total 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 Laryngectomy, total?
A Compensation & Pension (C&P) exam for Laryngectomy, total 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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