EDUCATIONAL TOOL ONLY. Not legal or medical advice. Not affiliated with the VA.
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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 (4 LEVELS)
60% -- Persistent edema and stasis pigmentation or eczema, with persistent ulceration
Chronic post-thrombotic syndrome with ulcers.
40% -- Persistent edema and stasis pigmentation or eczema, with or without intermittent ulceration
Chronic swelling and skin changes.
20% -- Persistent edema, incompletely relieved by elevation
Chronic swelling that does not fully resolve.
10% -- Intermittent edema or aching and fatigue after prolonged standing/walking
Symptoms manageable with compression and elevation.
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)
Pulmonary EmbolismSTRONG
DC 6817
DVT can produce pulmonary embolism, a life-threatening complication.
Post-Thrombotic SyndromeSTRONG
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.
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
NOT AFFILIATED WITH THE U.S. DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS.
CLAIM RECON 2026