The Veteran's status post subtotal resection left S2 nerve root for schwannoma with left hemilaminectomy S1 and S2 has been rated at 40 percent, but the Board finds that a higher rating is not warranted as his symptoms do not meet or approximate the criteria for a higher rating.,The Veteran's left lower extremity radiculopathy has also been rated at 20 percent. The Board finds that a higher rating is not warranted as his symptoms do not meet or approximate the criteria for a higher rating.
The deciding factor: The evidence does not show that the Veteran's service-connected conditions have worsened to an extent warranting a higher rating.
- Claimed conditions
- Status Post Subtotal Resection Left S2 Nerve Root for Schwannoma with Left Hemilaminectomy S1 and S2, Left Lower Extremity Radiculopathy
- How they argued it
- Reopened with new and material evidence
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- None in this decision
- Decision date
- December 16, 2022
- Citation
- 22069369
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 22069369.
What this means for you
A remand is not a loss. The Board sent the case back for more development — often a new exam or missing records — before making a final decision. Many remands later end in a grant, and the decision spells out exactly what the Board wanted to see.
What you can do next
Related decisions
Other Board decisions on a similar condition or argued the same way.
- Remanded (sent back)
The Veteran's claims for higher ratings for right and left lower extremity radiculopathy are being remanded due to the need for a new VA examination to assess the current severity of his condition, without considering the ameliorative effects of any medication he uses.
- Granted
The Veteran's bilateral lower extremity radiculopathy has been granted a 30 percent disability rating since November 29, 2021.
- Remanded (sent back)
The Veteran's erectile dysfunction is likely due to his service-connected lumbar spine and radiculopathy conditions, with tramadol use possibly causing the condition by October 25, 2012. The effective date for ED will be remanded.,Due to the inextricably intertwined nature of the issues, including the need to determine if tramadol caused ED prior to August 30, 2013, the SMC issue is also remanded.
- Granted
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