Bladder Fistula

DC 7516Genitourinary38 CFR 4.115a-4.115b, DC 7516

An abnormal opening between the bladder and another organ (such as the bowel or skin), causing leakage of urine. The VA rates bladder fistula based on voiding dysfunction criteria, specifically how often you need to change absorbent materials or use an appliance.

How the VA rates this condition

The VA rates this condition based on the type and intensity of treatment you require. Higher ratings correspond to more aggressive treatment regimens, such as daily medication, insulin dependence, or the need for ongoing medical management.

Diagnostic code

DC 7516

Rating range

20% – 60%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.115a-4.115b, DC 7516. 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 bladder fistula causes severe urinary leakage requiring the use of an appliance or absorbent materials that must be changed more than 4 times per day.

What the VA looks for

Severe bladder fistula documented
Appliance or catheter required for management
Absorbent materials changed more than 4 times per day
Surgical repair attempted or deemed not feasible
Severe impact on all daily activities and employment

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not accurately tracking and reporting how many times per day you change absorbent materials — the rating levels are specifically based on this number.
⚠Not connecting the fistula to in-service causes such as pelvic trauma, surgical complications, radiation treatment, or combat injuries that damaged the bladder.
⚠Not filing for secondary conditions like chronic skin breakdown, recurrent urinary tract infections, or depression caused by the ongoing leakage and its impact on quality of life.
⚠Accepting a lower rating after surgical repair without documenting residual leakage or voiding dysfunction — many fistula repairs result in ongoing symptoms.

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Kidney and Urinary Tract Conditions

View evidence checklist →See secondary conditions →

Condition Rating Guides

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

Bladder Fistula

How the VA rates this condition

Diagnostic code

DC 7516

Rating range

20% – 60%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

Your bladder fistula causes severe urinary leakage requiring the use of an appliance or absorbent materials that must be changed more than 4 times per day.

What the VA looks for

Severe bladder fistula documented
Appliance or catheter required for management
Absorbent materials changed more than 4 times per day
Surgical repair attempted or deemed not feasible
Severe impact on all daily activities and employment

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not accurately tracking and reporting how many times per day you change absorbent materials — the rating levels are specifically based on this number.

⚠Not connecting the fistula to in-service causes such as pelvic trauma, surgical complications, radiation treatment, or combat injuries that damaged the bladder.

⚠Not filing for secondary conditions like chronic skin breakdown, recurrent urinary tract infections, or depression caused by the ongoing leakage and its impact on quality of life.

⚠Accepting a lower rating after surgical repair without documenting residual leakage or voiding dysfunction — many fistula repairs result in ongoing symptoms.