Bladder, fistula of — VA Rating Criteria (38 CFR DC 7516)

The VA rates Bladder, fistula of under Diagnostic Code 7516 at the following tiers: 100%. The minimum 100% rating requires: Postoperative, suprapubic cystotomy. The maximum 100% rating requires: Postoperative, suprapubic cystotomy.

Diagnostic Code 7516 is the VA rating identifier for Bladder, fistula of within 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.115b. It defines the specific symptom criteria and percentage thresholds a VA adjudicator uses to assign a disability rating. The diagnostic code is listed on a veteran's rating decision letter.

The highest schedular rating for Bladder, fistula of under DC 7516 is 100%. This tier requires: Postoperative, suprapubic cystotomy. Veterans who cannot secure substantially gainful employment due to Bladder, fistula of alone or in combination with other service-connected conditions may also qualify for TDIU at the 100% compensation rate under 38 CFR § 4.16.

Bladder, fistula of is rated under 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.115b, Diagnostic Code 7516. This section is part of the Schedule for Rating Disabilities (38 CFR Part 4) and can be read in full at the eCFR website.

Secondary conditions caused or aggravated by Bladder, fistula of may be ratable under 38 CFR § 3.310. Veterans should work with a VSO or accredited claims agent to document the medical relationship.

Service connection for Bladder, fistula of requires three elements: (1) a current diagnosis of the condition, (2) an in-service event, injury, or disease that may have caused or aggravated it, and (3) a medical nexus connecting the current diagnosis to that in-service event. A nexus letter from a treating physician or independent medical examiner is the most reliable nexus evidence. C&P exam findings can also establish nexus if adequately documented.