Above-Knee Amputation

DC 5162Musculoskeletal38 CFR 4.71a, DC 5162

Amputation of the leg above the knee joint. The VA rates above-knee amputation based on the level of amputation within the thigh. Higher ratings are assigned for amputations closer to the hip or when the remaining stump is defective.

How the VA rates this condition

The VA rates this condition based on objective clinical measurements and test results. The examiner will use standardized tests or lab values to determine the severity of your condition rather than relying primarily on subjective symptom reports.

Diagnostic code

DC 5162

Rating range

60% – 90%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.71a, DC 5162. 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

You have an above-knee amputation with a defective stump at the upper third of the thigh, or your stump is so short or problematic that a hip disarticulation amputation is recommended or has been performed.

What the VA looks for

Defective stump documented (skin breakdown, bone spur, neuroma)
Stump too short for reliable prosthetic use
Recommendation for revision amputation or hip disarticulation
Inability to use prosthetic limb
Wheelchair-dependent mobility

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not documenting the exact level of amputation — the rating changes significantly depending on whether the amputation is at the lower, middle, or upper third of the thigh, so precise surgical and radiographic records are essential.
⚠Not claiming secondary conditions — above-knee amputees commonly develop low back pain, hip arthritis on the amputated side, and knee problems on the remaining leg from compensatory gait patterns, all of which should be filed as secondary claims.
⚠Not documenting stump complications — phantom pain, neuroma formation, skin breakdown, and bone spurs at the stump can support a higher rating or additional ratings.
⚠Failing to apply for Special Monthly Compensation (SMC) — loss of use of a leg qualifies for SMC at the "k" level at minimum, and additional SMC may apply for loss of use combined with other disabilities.

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Musculoskeletal 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

Diagnostic code

DC 5162

Rating range

60% – 90%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

What the VA looks for

Defective stump documented (skin breakdown, bone spur, neuroma)
Stump too short for reliable prosthetic use
Recommendation for revision amputation or hip disarticulation
Inability to use prosthetic limb
Wheelchair-dependent mobility

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not documenting the exact level of amputation — the rating changes significantly depending on whether the amputation is at the lower, middle, or upper third of the thigh, so precise surgical and radiographic records are essential.

⚠Not claiming secondary conditions — above-knee amputees commonly develop low back pain, hip arthritis on the amputated side, and knee problems on the remaining leg from compensatory gait patterns, all of which should be filed as secondary claims.

⚠Not documenting stump complications — phantom pain, neuroma formation, skin breakdown, and bone spurs at the stump can support a higher rating or additional ratings.

⚠Failing to apply for Special Monthly Compensation (SMC) — loss of use of a leg qualifies for SMC at the "k" level at minimum, and additional SMC may apply for loss of use combined with other disabilities.