The VA denied an increased rating for a residual scar from shrapnel wound on the right side of the thorax, as it is already rated at the maximum allowed by the applicable rating schedule.
The deciding factor: The veteran's service-connected shrapnel wound residual was characterized by a well-healed scar and no functional impairment or pain. The current rating under Diagnostic Code 7804 for superficial scars that are painful on examination does not allow for a higher evaluation.
- Claimed conditions
- residual scar from shrapnel wound, right side of thoracic area
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- 10%
- Decision date
- August 9, 2004
- Citation
- 0421734
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 0421734.
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Related decisions
Other Board decisions on a similar condition or argued the same way.
- Denied
The Board denied the veteran's claims for increased ratings for his service-connected lumbar myositis, psychoneurosis and conversion hysteria, residuals of shrapnel wounds of the left thigh and pelvis with retained foreign bodies and scars, and residuals of shell fragment wounds of the right thigh and left leg. The veteran was also denied entitlement to a total disability rating based on individual unemployability due to service-connected disabilities.
- Denied
The Board denied the Veteran's claim for an initial evaluation in excess of 10 percent for his service-connected coronary artery disease, finding that the evidence did not support a higher rating based on the severity of his condition.
- Denied
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- Granted
The Veteran's claim for service connection for PTSD is granted as the evidence shows a current diagnosis of PTSD, an in-service stressor, and a medical link between the two.
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