The Veteran is granted an initial evaluation of 20 percent for residuals of splenectomy, but denied a compensable rating for the scar from the splenectomy. The issues of right shoulder disability, bilateral hearing loss, tinnitus, and hypothyroidism are referred to the AOJ.
The deciding factor: The Veteran's service-connected splenectomy residuals were found to be more appropriately rated under DC 7706, resulting in a grant for an initial evaluation of 20 percent. The scar from the splenectomy was not compensable as it did not meet the criteria for a higher rating.
- Claimed conditions
- Splenectomy
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- 20%
- Decision date
- April 10, 2020
- Citation
- 20024826
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 20024826.
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 Veteran's PTSD has been rated at 100 percent disabling from June 5, 2013 to February 14, 2024.,The claim for TDIU prior to January 15, 2020 is denied as moot.
- Denied
The Board has denied service connection for residuals of splenectomy and abdominal surgical scar status post splenectomy, finding that the underlying condition (hereditary spherocytosis) clearly and unmistakably existed prior to active service and was not aggravated by service.
- Granted
The Veteran's PTSD is granted, and his splenectomy and GSW residuals are rated at the maximum allowed. The effective dates for service connection of scars and insomnia disorder are set to August 23, 2018.
- Denied
The Veteran's service-connected disabilities do not meet the criteria for specially adapted housing or a special home adaptation grant due to lack of anatomical loss or use, contractures, or significant functional impairment.
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.