The Veteran's initial ratings for right and left total knee replacements have been denied as the evidence does not support a rating in excess of 30 percent from August 1, 2020.
The deciding factor: The VA examiner found that the residuals of the Veteran's bilateral total knee joint replacement consisted solely of pain, which is rated under the analogous Diagnostic Code for total knee replacements (DC 5055). The evidence does not support a higher rating based on functional loss or other criteria.
- Claimed conditions
- Right Total Knee Replacement, Left Total Knee Replacement
- How they argued it
- Direct service connection
- Exposure basis
- None
- Rating assigned
- 30%
- Decision date
- January 5, 2026
- Citation
- 26000008
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 26000008.
What this means for you
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What you can do next
Related decisions
Other Board decisions on a similar condition or argued the same way.
- Granted
The Veteran's left total knee replacement with left knee arthritis and scar, status post left knee arthroscopy, are granted a disability rating of 60 percent effective February 28, 2025.
- Remanded (sent back)
The Veteran's appeal for higher ratings for his right knee disability is remanded due to the need for additional medical evidence and consideration of medication effects.
- Granted
The Veteran's right knee disability was granted an increased rating to 60% effective June 1, 2018. Attorney fees are eligible based on past-due benefits awarded in the December 2019 rating decision.
- Remanded (sent back)
The Board has decided to remand the claims for right knee disability and TDIU prior to March 22, 2021 due to duty to assist errors. The appellant's representative withdrew his request for a hearing.
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