★ Cardiovascular
Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) Residuals VA Rating
38 CFR § 4.104, Diagnostic Code 7121
Overview
Acute DVT episodes are typically managed with anticoagulation.
Long-term residuals — chronic edema, skin changes, ulceration — drive the rating.
Each leg is rated separately, with bilateral factor under § 4.26 if both qualify.
How to Establish Service Connection
- Direct: in-service DVT episode.
- Secondary to immobilization from a service-connected condition or surgery.
- Aggravation: pre-existing clotting disorder worsened by service.
Rating Criteria
Paraphrased from 38 CFR § 4.104, Diagnostic Code 7121
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 10% | Intermittent edema or aching/fatigue relieved by elevation or compression. |
| 20% | Persistent edema incompletely relieved by elevation, with or without beginning stasis pigmentation/eczema. |
| 40% | Persistent edema and stasis pigmentation/eczema, with or without intermittent ulceration. |
| 60% | Persistent edema and subcutaneous induration, stasis pigmentation/eczema, and persistent ulceration. |
| 100% | Massive board-like edema with constant pain at rest. |
See what each percentage pays in 2026 and how it combines with your current rating →
Evidence Checklist
- Doppler ultrasound documenting DVT.
- Vascular specialist notes.
- Photographs of skin changes.
- Anticoagulation records.
Common Secondary Conditions
Conditions frequently service-connected as secondary to Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) Residuals:
Frequently Asked Questions
Have a Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) Residuals claim or denial?
Four fields. A VA-accredited claims agent reviews it and responds within 3–5 business days. Contingent fees apply only to awarded past-due benefits on appeals — never on initial claims.
Requesting a consultation does not create representation and is not a guarantee of any outcome. Representation begins only after a written fee agreement and VA Form 21-22a are signed.
Educational content only — not legal advice and not medical advice. Rating criteria on this page are summarized in plain English from 38 CFR Part 4; consult VA.gov or the current Code of Federal Regulations for official criteria. This page provides general education about how the VA rates this condition; it is not individualized advice, does not establish a representation relationship, and should not be used to self-diagnose, self-treat, or decide a course of action without speaking to a qualified clinician and a VA-accredited representative. Outcomes depend on each veteran's individual facts, evidence, and the adjudicator's judgment; no specific rating, effective date, or other result is guaranteed. Oakridge Claims is a private business and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or operated by the US Department of Veterans Affairs.