Scars Board decisions

The Veteran's service-connected disabilities (primarily his peripheral neuropathy of the lower extremities) have resulted in the permanent loss of use of both legs, as no effective function remains other than that which could be equally well served by below-the-knee amputation stumps with use of a suitable prosthetic appliance. Therefore, assistance for the purchase of an automobile and adaptive equipment has been granted.

The Veteran's appeal was denied as his right shoulder disability did not meet the criteria for a higher rating under the applicable diagnostic codes. A separate compensable rating of 10% was granted for a scar from previous surgery on the right shoulder.

The Veteran's claim for special monthly compensation at the housebound rate has been denied as he does not meet the criteria for this benefit.

The Board found that the Veteran's lumbar spine disability was not caused by or related to military service, and thus denied his claim for service connection.

The Veteran is seeking an initial rating increase for his service-connected scar, left deltoid, secondary to malignant melanoma surgery. He was initially service connected at a noncompensable rate and that rating was increased to 10 percent. The case is REMANDED due to the need for a new VA examination to determine the current severity of the Veteran's disability, including any limitation of function caused by the service-connected scar.

The Veteran's claim for a rating in excess of 10 percent for his service-connected tender scar, left foot is being remanded due to the need for additional development and examination.

The Veteran's service-connected disabilities preclude him from securing and following substantially gainful employment, warranting a total disability rating based on individual unemployability.

The Board denied the Veteran's claims for increased ratings for his service-connected scar, left palm injury, with flexor tendon shortening of left ring finger and flexor tendonitis, left forearm with mild ulnar neuritis. The current evaluations were found to be appropriate based on the evidence provided.

The Veteran's service-connected facial scar and left side of face scars are currently rated at 20% combined, but the Board finds that neither condition warrants a higher evaluation based on current evidence.

The Board found that the Veteran does not have current diagnoses of hepatitis C, hypertension, or a left hernia scar. The claim for service connection was denied as there is no clear and unmistakable evidence to show these conditions preexisted his military service.

The Veteran's service-connected disabilities, including right, below-the-elbow amputation and bilateral hearing loss, render him in need of regular aid and attendance. The Board has granted an increased rate of SMC based on this need.

The Board has remanded the case for additional development, including obtaining medical records and providing a VA examination to determine if the Veteran has residuals of his in-service head injury, such as headaches and a scar.

The Board denied the Veteran's claims for service connection for right hand scars and right foot drop, finding that these conditions were not incurred in or aggravated by service.

The Veteran's service-connected residual scar, inguinal hernia, is currently rated at 10 percent. The Board finds that the evidence does not support a higher rating based on the current criteria.

The Veteran's appeal for a total disability rating based on individual unemployability due to service-connected disabilities (TDIU) has been dismissed as the appeal was withdrawn.

The Board finds that the Veteran's shrapnel wounds to his face, left thigh, and left calf are service-connected as they were incurred during active duty.

The Veteran's right corneal scar, status post eye injury, is currently evaluated as noncompensably disabling due to asymptomatic visual acuity of 20/25 in both eyes. The Board found no evidence of impairment of central visual acuity or field loss.

The Veteran's skin cancer, including the left ear, left forearm, right side of the nose, upper and lower back, and lip, has been rated as 10 percent disabling since May 8, 2003.

The Veteran's service-connected scars and hearing loss have been granted.,Service connection for tinnitus has also been granted.

The Veteran's service-connected disabilities, coupled with his educational background and work experience, render him unable to secure or follow a substantially gainful occupation.