Other conditions decisions — 2008

The veteran's claim for an increased evaluation for ulnar nerve root compression was denied as the evidence did not support a rating greater than 10 percent. The issue of whether the reduction in disability rating from 40 to 30 percent was proper is remanded.

The veteran withdrew his appeal regarding the increased initial evaluation for retinal detachment, left eye.

The Board has determined that the veteran's death was due to atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, which is service-connected. The cause of death is therefore granted.

The veteran's laceration, right flank is rated as superficial and painful on examination. The current evaluation of 10% under Diagnostic Code 7804 for a superficial scar that is painful does not meet the criteria for an initial compensable evaluation.

The Board has determined that the veteran's service-connected deep venous thrombosis with post-phlebitic syndrome and varicose veins of left lower extremity does not warrant a rating higher than 20 percent.

The veteran's claim for service connection for a right leg disorder is being remanded due to the need for additional development, including obtaining medical records and conducting a VA examination.

The Board denied a compensable rating for the veteran's service-connected left leg gunshot wound residuals, finding that the medical evidence did not show deep scars, limitation of motion, or other criteria warranting a higher rating.

The Board denied reopening the veteran's claims for service connection for cold injury residuals to the feet and hands, ears, and nose due to lack of new and material evidence.

The Board found that the veteran had a pending claim at the time of his death for accrued benefits, but the RO denied it. The case is now remanded to consider the underlying merits and provide VCAA notice.

The Board has determined that the veteran's condition was not stabilized at any point during his treatment at Saint Anthony Hospital North between February 17, 2005 and February 23, 2005. Therefore, reimbursement for unauthorized medical expenses incurred during this period is granted. The claim for reimbursement of unauthorized medical expenses incurred on February 28, 2005 at Cardiovascular Associates is denied.

The Board has ordered that the case be remanded for further development due to the need for additional medical records and a VA examination.

The Board denied service connection for anal fissures with rectal bleeding and pericarditis, finding that the veteran does not currently have chronic disabilities manifested by these conditions.

The veteran's claim for service connection for a left hand disability is denied. The Board finds that the evidence does not support a finding of in-service injury or aggravation, and there is no credible evidence linking his current condition to service.

The veteran's claim for an initial compensable evaluation for his right fourth finger fracture was denied as the disability does not meet or approximate criteria for a higher rating.

The Board found that the veteran's left great toe condition did not warrant an increased evaluation beyond the current 20 percent rating.

The Board found that the veteran does not have a current disability of his feet and denied his claim for service connection.

The veteran is seeking compensation under 38 U.S.C.A. § 1151 for complications from eye surgery performed in August 2003, including atrial fibrillation and syncope. The case has been remanded due to inadequate opinions regarding the cause of these conditions.

The veteran died from esophageal carcinoma, which is presumed to be related to his service-connected prostate cancer. The Board finds that the service-connected condition did not cause or contribute substantially or materially to the death.

The veteran is seeking compensation for dental surgery performed in April 2001. The VA has not yet determined if the residuals are due to carelessness, negligence or fault on the part of VA.

The Board has remanded the case due to the need for additional development related to the appellant's claim of service connection for the cause of the veteran's death. The effective date for the award of nonservice-connected (NSC) death pension benefits is being determined.