Scars decisions — 2018

The Board has determined that the Veteran's left shoulder disability, which includes degenerative arthritis and residual scars from rotator cuff surgery, does not warrant a higher rating than 20 percent. The evidence shows pain, reduced range of motion, popping, non-painful linear scarring, and loss of function in the left shoulder. However, there is no evidence showing limitation of motion to 25 degrees from the side or unstable/painful scars.

The Board has remanded the case for additional development, including obtaining new VA examinations and obtaining outstanding private or VA treatment records.

The Veteran's appeal is being remanded for additional development, including obtaining private medical records and scheduling a VA examination to assess the current severity of his lumbar spine and right foot disabilities.

The Veteran's abdomen scar does not exceed the required criteria for a higher rating.,The Veteran's back scar also does not meet the requirements for a higher rating.

The Veteran's service-connected anxiety disorder is rated at 50 percent, which reflects occupational and social impairment with reduced reliability and productivity.

The Veteran's combined service-connected disability rating is at least 80 percent, and he meets the schedular criteria for a TDIU. The Board finds that his disabilities render him unemployable.

The Veteran's claim for an initial rating in excess of 50 percent for major depressive disorder is granted, effective June 26, 2006.

The Veteran's claims for service connection and increased ratings have been dismissed as the Veteran withdrew these issues prior to a decision being made.

The Veteran's left forearm scar was evaluated and found not to meet the criteria for a compensable rating under any applicable diagnostic codes.

The Board found that the Veteran's character of discharge from service for the period prior to February 2, 1991 was not a bar to VA benefits. However, his subsequent service during and after this period is considered dishonorable, thus barring him from receiving VA compensation benefits for any diseases or injuries incurred or aggravated during these periods.

The Veteran's appeal involves multiple service-connected disabilities, including depressive disorder, right knee disability, hypertension, low back disability, and several other conditions. The Board has ordered remand for additional development to ensure the claimant is afforded due process and that new VA examinations are conducted.

The Veteran's claim for a compensable initial evaluation for his scar status post ventral hernia repair was granted. The claims for service connection for left leg disability and pseudofolliculitis barbae are pending, with the latter requiring further development.

The Board granted service connection for the Veteran's left forearm scar, left lower extremity radiculopathy, bilateral pes planus, and IBS. The Veteran was also awarded a higher rating for his right shoulder disability and right knee degenerative joint disease.

The Board has determined that additional development is needed to address the Veteran's claims for service connection, including obtaining relevant medical records and conducting VA examinations.

The claims for service connection for PTSD, depression, and headaches have been reopened.,The claims for service connection for myopia/astigmatism, bilateral knee disability, back disability, onychomycosis/dermatophytosis, neck disability, and scars on both sides of the nose were not reopened.

The Board has granted service connection for tinnitus, left hand tendonitis, right hand tendonitis, and a residual right thigh scar.,These conditions are presumed to be related to the Veteran's military service.

The Veteran has withdrawn his appeal for all issues before the Board.

The Veteran's service-connected disabilities have precluded him from obtaining and maintaining a substantially gainful occupation since July 20, 2010.

The Veteran's service-connected disabilities, including residuals of a right middle finger injury with Swann-neck deformity, residuals of a right hand burn, and residuals of a left hand burn, have been rated appropriately. The Veteran is also entitled to an increased rating for his service-connected neuralgia.

The Veteran's service-connected conditions, including PTSD with MDD, left shoulder condition, right and left knee conditions, pseudofolliculitis barbae, tinnitus, and right knee condition, have resulted in a combined rating of 90 percent. The Veteran is therefore eligible for TDIU.,The Veteran's service-connected disabilities prevent him from securing or following any substantially gainful employment.