Cholecystectomy (gallbladder removal), complications of (such as strictures and biliary leaks) — VA Rating Criteria (38 CFR DC 7318)

The VA rates Cholecystectomy (gallbladder removal), complications of (such as strictures and biliary leaks) under Diagnostic Code 7318 at the following tiers: 0%, 10%, 30%. The minimum 0% rating requires: Asymptomatic. The maximum 30% rating requires: With recurrent abdominal pain (post-prandial or nocturnal); and chronic diarrhea characterized by three or more watery bowel movements per day.

Diagnostic Code 7318 is the VA rating identifier for Cholecystectomy (gallbladder removal), complications of (such as strictures and biliary leaks) within 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.114. 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 Cholecystectomy (gallbladder removal), complications of (such as strictures and biliary leaks) under DC 7318 is 30%. This tier requires: With recurrent abdominal pain (post-prandial or nocturnal); and chronic diarrhea characterized by three or more watery bowel movements per day. Veterans who cannot secure substantially gainful employment due to Cholecystectomy (gallbladder removal), complications of (such as strictures and biliary leaks) alone or in combination with other service-connected conditions may also qualify for TDIU at the 100% compensation rate under 38 CFR § 4.16.

Cholecystectomy (gallbladder removal), complications of (such as strictures and biliary leaks) is rated under 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.114, Diagnostic Code 7318. 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 Cholecystectomy (gallbladder removal), complications of (such as strictures and biliary leaks) 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 Cholecystectomy (gallbladder removal), complications of (such as strictures and biliary leaks) 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.