The veteran's claims for compensable evaluations for his right hand conditions were denied. The RO found that the residuals of fractures to the second through fifth fingers and injury to the thumb did not meet the criteria for a compensable evaluation.
The deciding factor: The VA examinations showed no significant functional impairment or arthritis in the right hand, with grip strength being reduced but still allowing the veteran to perform daily activities. The examiner noted that the veteran's symptoms were related to his work and hobbies, which affected his ability to continue working.
- Claimed conditions
- Fractures of the second through fifth fingers on the right hand, Injury to the right thumb
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating
- Not verified here — check the original decision
- Decision date
- August 11, 2003
- Citation
- 0319880
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. Search VA.gov for the original decision (opens in a new tab) using citation 0319880.
What this means for you
A final Board denial may be appealed to the U.S. Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims, generally within 120 days of the Board mailing date. A Supplemental Claim with new and relevant evidence is a separate option. Another Higher-Level Review of the Board decision is not available. Check your own notice: this historical decision does not set your deadline.
What you can do next
Use your own notice and decision stage. A remanded issue is not a final court-appealable denial. VA review guidance and CAVC filing instructions (U.S. federal; reviewed October 7, 2026).
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