EDUCATIONAL TOOL ONLY. Not legal or medical advice. Not affiliated with the VA.
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Hydronephrosis
DC 7509 | 38 CFR § 4.115b, DC 7509 |
Hydronephrosis is rated by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs under DC 7509 of 38 CFR § 4.115b, DC 7509 across 3 severity tiers (60% -- Absorbent materials changed >4x/day or appliance required / 40% -- Absorbent materials changed 2-4x/day / 20% -- Absorbent materials changed <2x/day). Service connection requires (1) a current diagnosis, (2) an in-service event, injury, or exposure, and (3) a medical nexus opinion linking the two under 38 C.F.R. § 3.303.
OVERVIEW
Swelling of the kidney due to urine backup from obstruction. Can be caused by kidney stones, tumors, enlarged prostate, or congenital abnormalities. Prolonged obstruction damages kidney tissue.
RATING CRITERIA (3 LEVELS)
60% -- Absorbent materials changed >4x/day or appliance required
Voiding dysfunction requiring appliance or absorbent materials changed more than 4 times per day.
40% -- Absorbent materials changed 2-4x/day
Requiring absorbent materials changed 2 to 4 times per day.
20% -- Absorbent materials changed <2x/day
Requiring absorbent materials changed less than 2 times per day.
KEY EVIDENCE TO GATHER
-Service treatment records
-Current medical diagnosis and treatment records
-Buddy/lay statements
-Prescription history
-Employment impact documentation
-Any relevant diagnostic testing
C&P EXAM TIPS (5)
1.Bring all relevant medical records and a written list of symptoms.
2.Report your worst days, not your best. The VA rates based on overall impairment.
3.Document how the condition affects daily activities, work, and relationships.
4.Mention all medications and their side effects.
5.Bring buddy statements from people who observe your symptoms.
EDUCATIONAL TOOL ONLY. NOT LEGAL OR MEDICAL ADVICE.
NOT AFFILIATED WITH THE U.S. DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS.
CLAIM RECON 2026