The Board denied service connection for status post fractured nose with residual clogged nasal passage as the evidence did not support a finding that it was incurred in or caused by active service.
The deciding factor: The VA examiner found no evidence of a deviated septum prior to enlistment and opined that an injury during contact sports, rough play such as wrestling, or automobile accidents may have led to the condition. The Veteran's lay statements were considered less probative due to their lack of medical expertise.
- Claimed conditions
- status post fractured nose with residual clogged nasal passage
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating
- Not verified here — check the original decision
- Decision date
- June 8, 2020
- Citation
- 20039028
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 20039028.
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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