The Veteran's claim for an evaluation in excess of 40 percent for his service-connected herniated nucleus pulposus, postoperative L4-5 hemilaminectomy and discectomy, and postoperative fusion of L4-S1 was denied. The case is also remanded due to the need for further development.
The deciding factor: The Veteran's forward flexion of the thoracolumbar spine did not meet the criteria for a higher evaluation as it was less than or equal to 30 degrees, which does not meet the requirements for an increased rating under Diagnostic Code 5242.
- Claimed conditions
- Herniated nucleus pulposus, Postoperative L4-5 hemilaminectomy and discectomy, Postoperative fusion of L4-S1
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- 40%
- Decision date
- March 16, 2022
- Citation
- 22015085
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 22015085.
What this means for you
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