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Denied

The VA has denied a rating in excess of 10 percent for service-connected residuals of an injury to the left fourth sternocostal cartilage, finding that the disability is manifested by pain and complaints of soreness and pain on deep breathing. The current 10 percent rating encompasses all impairment shown.

The deciding factor: The medical evidence most nearly reflects moderate, but not moderately severe or severe impairment of Muscle Group XXI (respiratory muscles), which corresponds to a 10% rating under Diagnostic Code 5321.

Claimed conditions
residuals of an injury to the left fourth sternocostal cartilage
How they argued it
Direct service connection
Exposure basis
None
Rating assigned
10%
Decision date
June 29, 2001
Citation
0117389

This is a plain-language summary generated by AI from a public Board of Veterans’ Appeals decision. It can contain errors — always verify against the original. Look up the original decision on VA.gov (opens in a new tab) using citation 0117389.

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