The case is being remanded due to incomplete compliance with the April 2021 remand directives, specifically obtaining updated VA treatment records and providing an addendum VA medical opinion regarding the Veteran's convalescence period for his lumbar surgery from May 2009 beyond October 31, 2009. The TDIU claim is also being remanded as it is inextricably intertwined with the evaluation of the low back.
The deciding factor: The AOJ failed to obtain updated VA treatment records and provide a complete rationale for the opinion regarding the Veteran's convalescence period, which are necessary for proper adjudication of the claims.
- Claimed conditions
- lumbar disc disease with a history of laminectomy (low back disorder)
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- None in this decision
- Decision date
- December 15, 2021
- Citation
- 21074637
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 21074637.
What this means for you
A remand sends an issue back for more development, often a new examination or missing records. It does not award the benefit or decide the final outcome. The original decision explains the additional work ordered.
What you can do next
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