Aortic Aneurysm
DC 7110 §4.104 Cardiovascular ICD-10: I71.9 Direct
VA rating criteria
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 100% | 5 cm or larger, or symptomatic, or for indefinite period from date of hospital admission for surgical correction |
| 60% | Aneurysm of any artery requiring surgical excision and graft replacement |
| 30% | Aneurysm of any artery, residuals after surgery |
Filing this claim
This is typically filed as a direct service connection claim. You need a current diagnosis, evidence of in-service event or exposure, and a nexus letter linking them. Use the letter generators to draft your nexus letter and Statement in Support of Claim.
Step by step
- File an Intent to File (Form 21-0966) to lock your effective date.
- Confirm you have a current medical diagnosis in a medical record.
- Get a nexus letter — magic phrase: "at least as likely as not."
- Write a Statement in Support of Claim (21-4138).
- If applicable, gather buddy statements (21-10210).
- File the formal 21-526EZ.
Source: 38 CFR §4.104. For exact regulatory language, consult eCFR Title 38. This is general education — for your specific case, consult a VA-accredited representative.