Ribs, removal of

The VA rates Ribs, removal of under Diagnostic Code 5297 at 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%. The minimum 10% rating requires: One or resection of two or more ribs without regeneration. The maximum 50% rating requires: More than six.

The VA rates Ribs, removal of under Diagnostic Code (DC) 5297, governed by 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.71a. The diagnostic code establishes the specific rating tiers and severity criteria the VA examiner applies.

A 10% rating requires: One or resection of two or more ribs without regeneration. A 50% rating requires: More than six. The difference typically reflects the frequency, severity, or functional impact of the condition as documented in medical records and C&P examination findings.

Veterans rated for Ribs, removal of 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.

Service connection for Ribs, removal of 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.

A Compensation & Pension (C&P) exam for Ribs, removal of 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.