Arm Amputation Above Deltoid Insertion

DC 5121Musculoskeletal38 CFR 4.71a, DC 5121

Amputation of the arm above the point where the deltoid muscle inserts into the humerus, removing nearly the entire arm while leaving only a very short humeral stump. This high-level amputation significantly limits prosthetic options and results in near-total loss of arm function. The VA assigns a fixed rating based on whether the amputation is on the dominant or non-dominant side.

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 5121

Rating range

80% – 90%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.71a, DC 5121. 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 amputation above the deltoid insertion on your dominant (major) side. This high-level amputation of the dominant arm causes profound functional impairment for virtually all activities.

What the VA looks for

Surgical or trauma records confirming amputation above deltoid insertion
Dominant arm confirmed in medical records
Minimal residual stump limiting prosthetic function
Severe impact on daily activities and employment documented
Prosthetic evaluation records
Special monthly compensation eligibility documented

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not documenting dominant vs non-dominant arm — the rating differs by 10 percent (90% dominant vs 80% non-dominant). Medical records must clearly state hand dominance.
⚠Not claiming special monthly compensation (SMC) — this high-level amputation qualifies for SMC-k and potentially higher levels. Ensure the VA adjudicates all applicable SMC entitlements.
⚠Not filing phantom limb pain as a separate secondary claim — phantom pain in the missing arm is a neurological condition that can receive its own compensable rating.
⚠Not documenting prosthetic fit issues — the very short stump makes prosthetic fitting difficult, and skin breakdown, socket problems, and suspension issues should all be documented.

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Amputations

View evidence checklist →See secondary conditions →

Condition Rating Guides

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

Arm Amputation Above Deltoid Insertion

How the VA rates this condition

Diagnostic code

DC 5121

Rating range

80% – 90%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

You have amputation above the deltoid insertion on your dominant (major) side. This high-level amputation of the dominant arm causes profound functional impairment for virtually all activities.

What the VA looks for

Surgical or trauma records confirming amputation above deltoid insertion
Dominant arm confirmed in medical records
Minimal residual stump limiting prosthetic function
Severe impact on daily activities and employment documented
Prosthetic evaluation records
Special monthly compensation eligibility documented

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not documenting dominant vs non-dominant arm — the rating differs by 10 percent (90% dominant vs 80% non-dominant). Medical records must clearly state hand dominance.

⚠Not claiming special monthly compensation (SMC) — this high-level amputation qualifies for SMC-k and potentially higher levels. Ensure the VA adjudicates all applicable SMC entitlements.

⚠Not filing phantom limb pain as a separate secondary claim — phantom pain in the missing arm is a neurological condition that can receive its own compensable rating.

⚠Not documenting prosthetic fit issues — the very short stump makes prosthetic fitting difficult, and skin breakdown, socket problems, and suspension issues should all be documented.