Veterans’ RightsAn independent resource for veterans
← All decisions
Denied

The veteran's claims for increased ratings and initial compensable rating for scars due to arthroscopic surgery of the left knee were denied. The RO found that his degenerative changes of the left knee status post arthroscopy for lateral meniscus tear warranted a 10% disability rating, but did not meet criteria for an increased rating or initial compensable rating for his scars.

The deciding factor: The veteran's left knee condition was primarily manifested by limitation of motion and pain, without objective evidence of instability, subluxation, or other functional impairment. His scars were not shown to be tender or painful on examination, nor did they cover an area of at least 144 square inches.

Claimed conditions
degenerative changes of the left knee status post arthroscopy for lateral meniscus tear
How they argued it
Direct service connection
Exposure basis
None
Rating assigned
10%
Decision date
December 28, 2004
Citation
0434021

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 0434021.

What this means for you

A denial is a starting point, not the end of the road. You can see why this claim fell short — and, if you are still inside the one-year window, the appeal lanes that may remain open to you.

What you can do next

Related decisions

Other Board decisions on a similar condition or argued the same way.

Free starter guide for your own claim

Reading this because you were denied or under-rated? Get the plain-English next steps — your appeal options, the deadline that protects you, and how appeals like yours turn out. One email, no spam.

We will only use this to send the guide. No spam, unsubscribe any time. We never sell your information.

We are not the VA. Veterans’ Rights is an independent resource built for veterans. We are not the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, not part of the government, and not endorsed by any government agency.

This is general information, not legal advice. For advice about your own situation, talk to a VA-accredited representative — many help for free.