Rectum and anus, impairment of sphincter control
Rectum and anus, impairment of sphincter control is rated under 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.114, Diagnostic Code 7332, from 0% to 100% based on the frequency and functional severity of symptoms. The maximum 100% rating requires: Complete loss of sphincter control characterized by incontinence or retention that is not responsive to a physician-prescribed bowel program and requires either surgery or digital stimulation, medication (beyond laxative use), and special diet; or incontinence to solids and/or liquids two or more times per day, which requires changing a pad two or more times per day. Most claims establish the 0% or 10% rating before reaching the top tier.
Rating schedule — DC 7332 at a glance
- Minimum rating
- 0%
- Maximum rating
- 100%
- Rating tiers
- 5
- CFR section
- 38 CFR § 4.114
- Body system
- Digestive System
- Secondary conditions
- 0
Lowest schedular rating available
Full schedular disability
0%, 10%, 30%, 60%, 100%
Part 4 rating schedule
None mapped
What are the VA rating criteria for Rectum and anus, impairment of sphincter control?
History of loss of sphincter control, currently asymptomatic
Complete or partial loss of sphincter control characterized by incontinence or retention that is fully responsive to a physician-prescribed bowel program and requires medication or special diet; or incontinence to solids and/or liquids at least once every six months, which requires wearing a pad at least once every six months
Complete or partial loss of sphincter control characterized by incontinence or retention that is fully responsive to a physician-prescribed bowel program and requires digital stimulation, medication (beyond laxative use), and special diet; or incontinence to solids and/or liquids two or more times per month, which requires wearing a pad two or more times per month
Complete or partial loss of sphincter control characterized by incontinence or retention that is partially responsive to a physician-prescribed bowel program and requires either surgery or digital stimulation, medication (beyond laxative use), and special diet; or incontinence to solids and/or liquids two or more times per week, which requires wearing a pad two or more times per week
Complete loss of sphincter control characterized by incontinence or retention that is not responsive to a physician-prescribed bowel program and requires either surgery or digital stimulation, medication (beyond laxative use), and special diet; or incontinence to solids and/or liquids two or more times per day, which requires changing a pad two or more times per day
“Complete or partial loss of sphincter control characterized by incontinence or retention that is fully responsive to a physician-prescribed bowel program and requires digital stimulation, medication (beyond laxative use), and special diet; or incontinence to solids and/or liquids two or more times per month, which requires wearing a pad two or more times per month”
Common Questions About Rectum and anus, impairment of sphincter control VA Ratings
What is the VA rating range for Rectum and anus, impairment of sphincter control?
The VA rates Rectum and anus, impairment of sphincter control under Diagnostic Code 7332 at 0%, 10%, 30%, 60%, 100%. The minimum 0% rating requires: History of loss of sphincter control, currently asymptomatic. The maximum 100% rating requires: Complete loss of sphincter control characterized by incontinence or retention that is not responsive to a physician-prescribed bowel program and requires either surgery or digital stimulation, medication (beyond laxative use), and special diet; or incontinence to solids and/or liquids two or more times per day, which requires changing a pad two or more times per day.
Which 38 CFR diagnostic code does the VA use for Rectum and anus, impairment of sphincter control?
The VA rates Rectum and anus, impairment of sphincter control under Diagnostic Code (DC) 7332, 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 100% rating for Rectum and anus, impairment of sphincter control?
A 0% rating requires: History of loss of sphincter control, currently asymptomatic. A 100% rating requires: Complete loss of sphincter control characterized by incontinence or retention that is not responsive to a physician-prescribed bowel program and requires either surgery or digital stimulation, medication (beyond laxative use), and special diet; or incontinence to solids and/or liquids two or more times per day, which requires changing a pad two or more times 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 Rectum and anus, impairment of sphincter control qualify for TDIU (Total Disability Individual Unemployability)?
Veterans rated for Rectum and anus, impairment of sphincter control 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 Rectum and anus, impairment of sphincter control?
Service connection for Rectum and anus, impairment of sphincter control 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 Rectum and anus, impairment of sphincter control?
A Compensation & Pension (C&P) exam for Rectum and anus, impairment of sphincter control 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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