Pharynx, injuries to
Pharynx, injuries to is rated under 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.97, Diagnostic Code 6521, from 50% to 50% based on the frequency and functional severity of symptoms. The maximum 50% rating requires: Stricture or obstruction of pharynx or nasopharynx, or; absence of soft palate secondary to trauma, chemical burn, or granulomatous disease, or; paralysis of soft palate with swallowing difficulty (nasal regurgitation) and speech impairment. Most claims establish the 50% or 50% rating before reaching the top tier.
Rating schedule — DC 6521 at a glance
- Minimum rating
- 50%
- Maximum rating
- 50%
- Rating tiers
- 1
- CFR section
- 38 CFR § 4.97
- Body system
- Respiratory System
- Secondary conditions
- 0
Lowest schedular rating available
TDIU may raise effective compensation to 100%
50%
Part 4 rating schedule
None mapped
What are the VA rating criteria for Pharynx, injuries to?
Stricture or obstruction of pharynx or nasopharynx, or; absence of soft palate secondary to trauma, chemical burn, or granulomatous disease, or; paralysis of soft palate with swallowing difficulty (nasal regurgitation) and speech impairment
“Stricture or obstruction of pharynx or nasopharynx, or; absence of soft palate secondary to trauma, chemical burn, or granulomatous disease, or; paralysis of soft palate with swallowing difficulty (nasal regurgitation) and speech impairment”
Common Questions About Pharynx, injuries to VA Ratings
What is the VA rating range for Pharynx, injuries to?
The VA rates Pharynx, injuries to under Diagnostic Code 6521 at 50%. The minimum 50% rating requires: Stricture or obstruction of pharynx or nasopharynx, or; absence of soft palate secondary to trauma, chemical burn, or granulomatous disease, or; paralysis of soft palate with swallowing difficulty (nasal regurgitation) and speech impairment. The maximum 50% rating requires: Stricture or obstruction of pharynx or nasopharynx, or; absence of soft palate secondary to trauma, chemical burn, or granulomatous disease, or; paralysis of soft palate with swallowing difficulty (nasal regurgitation) and speech impairment.
Which 38 CFR diagnostic code does the VA use for Pharynx, injuries to?
The VA rates Pharynx, injuries to under Diagnostic Code (DC) 6521, governed by 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.97. The diagnostic code establishes the specific rating tiers and severity criteria the VA examiner applies.
Can Pharynx, injuries to qualify for TDIU (Total Disability Individual Unemployability)?
Veterans rated for Pharynx, injuries to 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 Pharynx, injuries to?
Service connection for Pharynx, injuries to 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 Pharynx, injuries to?
A Compensation & Pension (C&P) exam for Pharynx, injuries to 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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