Scars decisions — 2018

The Veteran's erectile dysfunction is rated as noncompensable (0 percent) throughout the appeal period.,The Veteran's voiding dysfunction residual of prostate cancer is currently rated at 40 percent, and a higher rating is not warranted under current criteria.,The Veteran’s service-connected scar, status post radical prostatectomy, does not meet the criteria for a compensable rating based on its size or instability.,PTSD is currently rated at 50 percent, with no further increase in rating being granted.

The Veteran's service-connected disabilities, including fibroids, painful scars status post breast reduction surgery and hysterectomy, lumbar sprain, supra-cervical hysterectomy, and lupus, resulted in a combined disability rating of at least 70 percent from May 13, 2003, to January 29, 2011, and from December 1, 2011, to February 19, 2013. The Veteran was unable to secure or follow a substantially gainful occupation due to her service-connected disabilities during these periods.

The Veteran's service-connected scars have worsened, and additional evidence is needed to determine the appropriate rating.

The Veteran's appeal for a higher level of SMC for loss of use of bilateral hips was denied as he is already receiving the maximum rate of compensation authorized under 38 U.S.C. § 1114(p) for his loss of use of lower extremities.

The Veteran's migraines are rated at the maximum allowable under current criteria, but her pain scar is not compensable.,The Veteran has been diagnosed with HIV and Hepatitis C more than two decades after separation from service.

The Veteran's claim for an initial compensable rating for service-connected scars of the left middle and ring fingers was denied. The issue of service connection for a heart disorder is remanded.

The Veteran's TDIU claim is remanded due to the need for additional VA treatment records and Social Security Administration (SSA) records. The SSA records are relevant as they pertain to his service-connected ischemic heart disease.

The Veteran's initial increased disability ratings for bilateral bunionectomies and pes planus with plantar fasciitis and calcaneal spur have been denied. The case is remanded to further develop the service connection claim for a left ankle disability.

The Veteran's service-connected disabilities do not meet the criteria for a special home adaptation grant as none are rated as permanent and total, nor does any cause vision impairment or inhalation injury.

The Veteran withdrew his appeals regarding earlier effective dates for the ratings of his right arm/wrist disability and surgical scar.

The Veteran's initial ratings for post-operative scars of the abdomen, residuals of cholecystectomy, hemorrhoids, and adjustment disorder with anxiety are being remanded due to the need for further evaluation.

The Veteran's service-connected disabilities, including low back strain and migraine headaches, have rendered him unable to secure or follow a substantially gainful occupation. The Board has granted his application for total disability rating based upon individual unemployability (TDIU).

The Veteran's IBS has been granted a 10 percent initial rating, and the post-surgical scars associated with throat surgery and cholecystectomy have both been denied.

The Board has remanded the claims for service connection for residuals of dental surgery and circumcision due to inadequate VA examinations. New examinations are required to address whether the current disabilities constitute usual effects or unintended results of the in-service procedures.

The Veteran's appeal is remanded for further evaluation of his left foot scar and service connection claim for a back disorder. His VA treatment records need to be obtained, and he should undergo a new examination.

The Board has granted a temporary total rating for convalescence purposes due to surgery for service-connected bilateral, inguinal hydradenitis with scarring and recurrent exacerbations. The issues of increased ratings for the condition and associated scars are remanded.

The Veteran's service connection for obstructive sleep apnea is granted. The issue of an earlier effective date for the separate 10% disability rating for a painful scar on his right wrist (post ganglion cyst excision) is granted, with the effective date set at April 1, 2015.

The Veteran's claims of service connection for a recurrent right leg disorder and an initial compensable rating for anterior chest and left lower extremity scars are being remanded due to the need for additional evidence and examination.

The Board has decided to remand two cases for further examination and evaluation due to the Veteran's complaints of worsening symptoms.

The Veteran's claims for a compensable evaluation for left lateral cutaneous nerve neuropathy, and effective dates prior to September 5, 2013 for the grants of service connection for left lateral cutaneous nerve neuropathy, a left groin scar, and a left groin scar status post surgery (painful scar) have all been denied.