Ischemic heart disease decisions — 2006

The veteran was granted service connection for aortic stenosis due to rheumatic fever during service. Service connection for degenerative changes at L4-5 and L5-S1 is denied as there is no evidence of such condition in service or within one year post-service.

The veteran's diabetes, hypertension, and coronary artery disease were not found to be related to his military service. The Board denied the claims for service connection.

The Board has determined that additional development is needed for the veteran's service connection claims, including VA medical examinations and opinions regarding his heart disorder and right little finger fracture.

The Board has remanded the case due to the need for additional development, including obtaining SSA disability claim records and VA treatment records.

The veteran's appeal is being remanded for further development regarding his claims of service connection for diabetes mellitus and heart disease as secondary to diabetes mellitus. The claim will be reviewed based on the evidence provided, including any potential Agent Orange exposure at Vieques Island, Puerto Rico.

The Board has determined that the veteran's death was not caused by a service-connected condition, and therefore denied the claim for service connection for the cause of the veteran's death.

The Board denied the veteran's claims for service connection for a bilateral knee disability, low back disability, and heart disorder (secondary to PTSD), as well as an increased rating for his post-traumatic stress disorder.

The veteran does not meet the criteria for special monthly pension based on the need for regular aid and attendance.

The Board has determined that the veteran's claimed intestinal disability, weight loss, hypertension, and heart disability were not incurred or aggravated during service. The medical evidence does not support a finding of malnutrition in service, nor do current disabilities match those claimed.

The Board denied service connection for a heart disorder, headaches, and spina bifida as there was no evidence of current disabilities. The skin condition claim is remanded.

The Board denied the veteran's claims for service connection for coronary artery disease to include as secondary to traumatic amputation of the left arm and an increased evaluation for traumatic amputation through the middle third of the left forearm.