The Veteran's service-connected residuals of colectomy with perianal fistula and decreased sphincter control were found to be more than 30 percent disabling prior to July 24, 2013, but not more than 60 percent disabling from July 24, 2013, to August 11, 2016. The appeal was denied as the evidence did not support a higher rating.
The deciding factor: The evidence showed that the Veteran's disability had been manifested by occasional involuntary bowel movements and frequent exacerbations prior to July 24, 2013, but extensive leakage and frequent involuntary bowel movements from July 24, 2013, to August 11, 2016.
- Claimed conditions
- residuals of colectomy with perianal fistula and decreased sphincter control
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- 60%
- Decision date
- June 6, 2019
- Citation
- 19143912
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
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