Knee, resurfacing or replacement (prosthesis)
Knee, resurfacing or replacement (prosthesis) is rated under 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5055, 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 60% rating before reaching the top tier.
What are the VA rating criteria for Knee, resurfacing or replacement (prosthesis)?
Minimum evaluation, total replacement only
Note: The 30% rating is the floor for any knee replacement after the 1-year 100% period. Intermediate residuals may warrant rating by analogy to DC 5256 (ankylosis), DC 5261 (extension limitation), or DC 5262 (flexion limitation).
With chronic residuals consisting of severe painful motion or weakness in the affected extremity
For 4 months following implantation of prosthesis or resurfacing
Note: A 100% rating is assigned automatically for 1 year post-implantation to allow recovery. After 1 year, the VA must schedule a mandatory examination and re-rate based on residuals.
“With chronic residuals consisting of severe painful motion or weakness in the affected extremity”
Which conditions are commonly secondary to Knee, resurfacing or replacement (prosthesis)?
View 1 secondary condition linked to Knee, resurfacing or replacement (prosthesis)
Medical rationale, evidence strength, and filing tips — rated under 38 CFR § 3.310
Common Questions About Knee, resurfacing or replacement (prosthesis) VA Ratings
What is the VA rating range for Knee, resurfacing or replacement (prosthesis)?
The VA rates Knee, resurfacing or replacement (prosthesis) under Diagnostic Code 5055 at 30%, 60%, 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 Knee, resurfacing or replacement (prosthesis)?
The VA rates Knee, resurfacing or replacement (prosthesis) under Diagnostic Code (DC) 5055, 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 Knee, 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 Knee, resurfacing or replacement (prosthesis) qualify for TDIU (Total Disability Individual Unemployability)?
Veterans rated for Knee, 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 Knee, resurfacing or replacement (prosthesis)?
Service connection for Knee, 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 Knee, resurfacing or replacement (prosthesis)?
Knee, 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 Knee, resurfacing or replacement (prosthesis)?
A Compensation & Pension (C&P) exam for Knee, 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.
Get a Personalized Rating Analysis
VeteranHQ evaluates your symptoms against the exact 38 CFR criteria, identifies secondary conditions, and shows what evidence you need to support a higher rating.
Discover Your Benefits