Elbow, other impairment of Flail joint — VA Rating Criteria (38 CFR DC 5209)

The VA rates Elbow, other impairment of Flail joint under Diagnostic Code 5209 at the following tiers: 20%, 50%, 60%. The minimum 20% rating requires: Joint fracture, with marked cubitus varus or cubitus valgus deformity or with ununited fracture of head of radius; 20. The maximum 60% rating requires: 50.

Diagnostic Code 5209 is the VA rating identifier for Elbow, other impairment of Flail joint within 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.71a. 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 Elbow, other impairment of Flail joint under DC 5209 is 60%. This tier requires: 50. Veterans who cannot secure substantially gainful employment due to Elbow, other impairment of Flail joint alone or in combination with other service-connected conditions may also qualify for TDIU at the 100% compensation rate under 38 CFR § 4.16.

Elbow, other impairment of Flail joint is rated under 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5209. 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 Elbow, other impairment of Flail joint 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 Elbow, other impairment of Flail joint 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.