The veteran's initial increased disability rating of 20 percent for residuals of excision of a ganglion cyst of the left thumb, metacarpophalangeal joint, with scar, effective August 26, 2002, was granted. The previous ratings were not changed.
The deciding factor: The veteran's disability improved such that he could flex his left thumb to within 7 centimeters of the fifth metacarpophalangeal joint and to within 6 centimeters of the transverse crease since August 26, 2002. However, prior to this date, his disability did not meet the criteria for a higher rating.
- Claimed conditions
- residuals of excision of a ganglion cyst of the left thumb, metacarpophalangeal joint, with scar
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- 20%
- Decision date
- December 15, 2006
- Citation
- 0639135
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 0639135.
What this means for you
A grant means the Board agreed the veteran was entitled to the benefit. Decisions like this show the kind of evidence and arguments that tend to succeed for claims like it.
What you can do next
Related decisions
Other Board decisions on a similar condition or argued the same way.
- Granted
The Board granted service connection for obstructive sleep apnea, effective from the date of the February 2025 rating decision.
- Remanded (sent back)
The Board remands the claim for a medical examination to determine if the Veteran's current neck strain is related to his in-service activities.
- Remanded (sent back)
The Board remands the claim for a rating in excess of 70 percent for PTSD due to an inadequate medical opinion.
- Granted
The Board granted service connection for myasthenia gravis based on the Veteran's exposure to hazardous substances during his military service.
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.