The Veteran's claims for increased ratings for his service-connected traumatic amputation of the right index and middle fingers, as well as unfavorable ankylosis of the right ring and little fingers, have been denied. The highest possible schedular ratings are already in place.,Special monthly compensation based on loss of use of the right hand is granted.
The deciding factor: The Veteran's service-connected traumatic amputation of the right index and middle fingers is currently rated at the maximum allowable under Diagnostic Code 5146, which applies to amputations at the proximal interphalangeal joint or through proximal interphalangeal. The Veteran does not meet the criteria for a higher rating as his disability picture does not more nearly approximate the criteria for a higher evaluation.,The Veteran's service-connected unfavorable ankylosis of the right ring and little fingers is currently rated at 20 percent under Diagnostic Code 5219, which applies to unfavorable ankylosis of two digits. The Veteran does not meet the criteria for a higher rating as his disability picture does not more nearly approximate the criteria for a higher evaluation.
- Claimed conditions
- Traumatic Amputation of Right Index and Middle Fingers, Unfavorable Ankylosis of Right Ring and Little Fingers
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating
- Not verified here — check the original decision
- Decision date
- March 31, 2011
- Citation
- 1112837
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. Read the original VA decision (opens in a new tab) using citation 1112837.
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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