Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

DC 7112Cardiovascular38 CFR 4.104, DC 7112

An enlargement or bulging of the abdominal aorta, the main blood vessel that runs through the abdomen. The VA rates abdominal aortic aneurysm based on the size of the aneurysm, whether it has been surgically repaired, and whether you have residual symptoms.

How the VA rates this condition

The VA rates this condition based on the type, severity, and frequency of your symptoms. The examiner will evaluate your specific symptoms and how they affect your daily life and ability to work.

Diagnostic code

DC 7112

Rating range

0% – 100%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.104, DC 7112. This guide presents a plain-language summary and is not a substitute for the full regulatory text. Always consult a VSO or VA-accredited attorney for case-specific advice.

Rating Levels

Your aneurysm has ruptured, required emergency repair, or is inoperable. You have severe residual symptoms and are precluded from more than sedentary activity. This includes cases with graft complications, recurrent aneurysm formation, or chronic aortic insufficiency.

What the VA looks for

History of ruptured aneurysm or emergency repair
Inoperable aneurysm documented by vascular surgery
Graft complications (endoleak, infection, occlusion)
Inability to perform more than sedentary activity
Severe chronic pain or organ perfusion deficits

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not getting regular surveillance imaging — serial CT or ultrasound measurements showing growth rate are essential for demonstrating worsening and appropriate rating level.
⚠Not documenting all symptoms beyond the aneurysm itself — back pain, abdominal discomfort, and reduced activity tolerance caused by the aneurysm all factor into the rating.
⚠Not filing for secondary conditions — renal artery stenosis, lower extremity ischemia, and bowel ischemia can result from the aneurysm or its repair.
⚠Not connecting the aneurysm to service — risk factors include in-service hypertension, atherosclerosis, or exposure to certain toxins (Agent Orange). Document the nexus clearly.

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Artery and Vein Conditions

View evidence checklist →See secondary conditions →

Condition Rating Guides

Understand what the VA looks for at each rating level — loading conditions…

How the VA rates this condition

The VA rates this condition based on the type, severity, and frequency of your symptoms. The examiner will evaluate your specific symptoms and how they affect your daily life and ability to work.

Diagnostic code

DC 7112

Rating range

0% – 100%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

What the VA looks for

History of ruptured aneurysm or emergency repair
Inoperable aneurysm documented by vascular surgery
Graft complications (endoleak, infection, occlusion)
Inability to perform more than sedentary activity
Severe chronic pain or organ perfusion deficits

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not getting regular surveillance imaging — serial CT or ultrasound measurements showing growth rate are essential for demonstrating worsening and appropriate rating level.

⚠Not documenting all symptoms beyond the aneurysm itself — back pain, abdominal discomfort, and reduced activity tolerance caused by the aneurysm all factor into the rating.

⚠Not filing for secondary conditions — renal artery stenosis, lower extremity ischemia, and bowel ischemia can result from the aneurysm or its repair.

⚠Not connecting the aneurysm to service — risk factors include in-service hypertension, atherosclerosis, or exposure to certain toxins (Agent Orange). Document the nexus clearly.