Aortic Aneurysm

DC 7110Cardiovascular38 CFR 4.104, DC 7110

A bulge in the wall of the aorta, the body's main artery. The VA rates aortic aneurysm based on the size of the aneurysm, whether surgery was performed, and how much it limits your physical activity.

Rating Levels

Your aortic aneurysm is 5 cm or larger in diameter, or it is symptomatic, or it requires regular monitoring following surgery with residuals.

What the VA looks for

Aneurysm 5 cm or larger on imaging
Symptomatic aneurysm (pain, tenderness)
Post-surgical residuals requiring ongoing monitoring
CT or ultrasound documenting aneurysm size
Surgical graft in place

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not maintaining regular imaging (CT or ultrasound) to document aneurysm size — the 100% rating applies to aneurysms 5 cm or larger.
⚠Not connecting the aneurysm to service-connected hypertension or atherosclerosis as a secondary condition.
⚠If you had surgery, a minimum 30% rating applies for 5 years post-surgery — make sure the VA does not reduce before that period expires.
⚠Not documenting activity restrictions imposed by your doctor.

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Artery and Vein Conditions
DBQ Heart Conditions

View evidence checklist →See secondary conditions →

Condition Rating Guides

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