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Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) VA Disability Rating
DC 7121 | 38 C.F.R. § 4.104 | M21-1, Part IV.ii.8
OVERVIEW
Deep vein thrombosis is rated under DC 7121 (post-phlebitic syndrome) based on residual symptoms after the clot event. DVT in veterans may be related to prolonged immobility (long flights, vehicle operations, post-surgical), service-connected varicose veins, or injuries requiring immobilization. Post-thrombotic syndrome (chronic swelling, skin changes, ulcers) determines the long-term rating.
RATING CRITERIA (6 LEVELS)
100% — Massive board-like edema with constant pain at rest
Rate DVT and chronic deep vein disease under DC 7121 (post-phlebitic syndrome). Massive board-like edema with constant pain at rest attributable to venous disease.
60% — Persistent edema + stasis pigmentation/eczema + persistent ulceration
Persistent edema or subcutaneous induration, stasis pigmentation or eczema, AND persistent ulceration.
40% — Persistent edema + stasis pigmentation/eczema, with or without intermittent ulceration
Persistent edema AND stasis pigmentation or eczema, with or without intermittent ulceration.
20% — Persistent edema, incompletely relieved by elevation
Persistent edema incompletely relieved by elevation of extremity, with or without beginning stasis pigmentation or eczema.
10% — Intermittent edema or aching/fatigue relieved by elevation
Intermittent edema of extremity OR aching and fatigue in leg after prolonged standing/walking, with symptoms relieved by elevation or compression hosiery.
0% — Asymptomatic
Asymptomatic with documented DVT history — no current edema, pigmentation, or ulceration. File for service connection to protect effective date.
KEY EVIDENCE TO GATHER
-Doppler ultrasound documenting DVT and venous insufficiency
-Documentation of anticoagulation therapy (warfarin, Eliquis, Xarelto) with duration
-Photography of affected leg showing edema, skin changes, or ulceration
-Service records showing immobility, injury requiring immobilization, or long transport flights
SECONDARY CONDITIONS (2 MAPPED)
DC 6817
DVT can produce pulmonary embolism, a life-threatening complication.
DC 7121
Chronic venous insufficiency is the long-term complication of DVT.
C&P EXAM TIPS (4)
1.Each affected leg is rated separately. Bilateral DVT gets bilateral factor.
2.Do NOT wear compression stockings to the exam. The examiner needs to see baseline swelling.
3.Photograph your legs on your worst days showing swelling, discoloration, and any ulcers.
4.If you are on lifelong anticoagulation, document this -- it shows the condition is serious and ongoing.
RELEVANT CASE LAW
38 C.F.R. § 4.104, DC 7121 (Post-phlebitic syndrome of any etiology)
DVT residuals rate under DC 7121. Each extremity evaluated separately; combine under § 4.25 with bilateral factor § 4.26 where applicable. Pulmonary embolism as a complication of DVT is separately ratable under DC 6817 (pulmonary hypertension) if residuals persist.
DOLLAR IMPACT
DVT with post-thrombotic syndrome at 40% pays $795.38/mo. Bilateral at 40% each with bilateral factor combines to approximately 64%, worth $1,432/mo tier.
EDUCATIONAL TOOL ONLY. NOT LEGAL OR MEDICAL ADVICE.
NOT AFFILIATED WITH THE U.S. DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS.
CLAIM RECON 2026