Ribs, removal of — VA Rating Criteria (38 CFR DC 5297)

The VA rates Ribs, removal of under Diagnostic Code 5297 at the following tiers: 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%. The minimum 10% rating requires: One or resection of two or more ribs without regeneration. The maximum 50% rating requires: More than six.

Diagnostic Code 5297 is the VA rating identifier for Ribs, removal of 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 Ribs, removal of under DC 5297 is 50%. This tier requires: More than six. Veterans who cannot secure substantially gainful employment due to Ribs, removal 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.

Ribs, removal of is rated under 38 CFR 38 CFR § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5297. 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 Ribs, removal 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 Ribs, removal 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.