Mandible, loss of, including ramus, unilaterally or bilaterally — VA Rating Criteria (38 CFR DC 9902)

The VA rates Mandible, loss of, including ramus, unilaterally or bilaterally under Diagnostic Code 9902 at the following tiers: 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, 70%. The minimum 10% rating requires: Replaceable by prosthesis. The maximum 70% rating requires: Not replaceable by prosthesis.

Diagnostic Code 9902 is the VA rating identifier for Mandible, loss of, including ramus, unilaterally or bilaterally within 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.150. 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 Mandible, loss of, including ramus, unilaterally or bilaterally under DC 9902 is 70%. This tier requires: Not replaceable by prosthesis. Veterans who cannot secure substantially gainful employment due to Mandible, loss of, including ramus, unilaterally or bilaterally alone or in combination with other service-connected conditions may also qualify for TDIU at the 100% compensation rate under 38 CFR § 4.16.

Mandible, loss of, including ramus, unilaterally or bilaterally is rated under 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.150, Diagnostic Code 9902. 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 Mandible, loss of, including ramus, unilaterally or bilaterally 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 Mandible, loss of, including ramus, unilaterally or bilaterally 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.