Coronary bypass surgery — VA Rating Criteria (38 CFR DC 7017)

The VA rates Coronary bypass surgery under Diagnostic Code 7017 at the following tiers: 100%. The minimum 100% rating requires: For three months following hospital admission for surgery. The maximum 100% rating requires: For three months following hospital admission for surgery.

Diagnostic Code 7017 is the VA rating identifier for Coronary bypass surgery within 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.104. 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 Coronary bypass surgery under DC 7017 is 100%. This tier requires: For three months following hospital admission for surgery. Veterans who cannot secure substantially gainful employment due to Coronary bypass surgery alone or in combination with other service-connected conditions may also qualify for TDIU at the 100% compensation rate under 38 CFR § 4.16.

Coronary bypass surgery is rated under 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.104, Diagnostic Code 7017. 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 Coronary bypass surgery 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 Coronary bypass surgery 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.