The Veteran's scars have been rated based on their pain and not by limitation of function. The Board finds that a higher rating is not warranted as the evidence does not show more than one or two painful scars.,Prior to September 3, 2017, the Veteran did not meet criteria for a compensable initial evaluation due to lack of systemic therapy over the past year.,From September 3, 2017 to August 20, 2018, the Veteran's scar with abscess warranted a 10 percent rating based on intermittent systemic therapy less than six weeks over the prior year. The Board finds no basis for a higher rating as the scar did not meet criteria for more severe ratings.,From August 20, 2018 to present, the Veteran's scar with abscess does not warrant a compensable rating due to lack of systemic therapy and other factors.
The deciding factor: The evidence does not support higher ratings based on the nature or severity of the scars.
- Claimed conditions
- Painful scar, anterior trunk (appendectomy/inguinal hernia repair), Scar with abscess, anterior trunk (appendectomy/inguinal hernia repair)
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating
- Not verified here — check the original decision
- Decision date
- September 28, 2023
- Citation
- 23054045
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 23054045.
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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