Chronic Mesenteric Ischemia

DC 7328Digestive38 CFR 4.114, DC 7328

Reduced blood flow to the intestines caused by narrowing of the mesenteric arteries, leading to severe abdominal pain after eating, weight loss, and fear of eating. As of May 19, 2024, mesenteric ischemic thrombosis is rated under DC 7328 (resection of the small intestine, which also covers short bowel syndrome), based on the intestinal consequences — episodes of diarrhea per day, undernutrition and anemia, and the level of nutritional support required. The criteria below apply when the ischemia has caused bowel damage or resection; ischemia managed without resection is evaluated on its residual GI symptoms. For claims pending before May 19, 2024, the VA must apply whichever is more favorable.

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 7328

Rating range

0% – 80%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.114, DC 7328. 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 are status post intestinal resection with undernutrition and anemia, requiring total parenteral nutrition (TPN).

What the VA looks for

Undernutrition and anemia
Complete dependence on total parenteral nutrition (TPN)

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not getting CT angiography or MR angiography to document the mesenteric artery blockages — imaging evidence is essential for establishing the diagnosis and its connection to any bowel resection.
⚠Not documenting the intestinal consequences — under DC 7328 the rating depends on episodes of diarrhea per day, undernutrition and anemia, and whether you require oral supplementation, continuous medication, or total parenteral nutrition (TPN).
⚠Not connecting mesenteric ischemia to atherosclerosis risk factors that may be service-connected — hypertension, diabetes, and high cholesterol from service can cause mesenteric artery disease as a secondary condition.
⚠If your ischemia is managed without bowel resection, ask how it should be evaluated on its residual GI symptoms; if your claim was pending before May 19, 2024, the old criteria may also apply.

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Intestinal Conditions (Other Than Surgical or Infectious)

See secondary conditions →

Related Conditions

Conditions commonly associated with Chronic Mesenteric Ischemia or rated under the same body system.

GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease)

DC 7206·Digestive

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

Hepatitis C

Crohn's Disease

Hemorrhoids

Ulcerative Colitis

Hiatal Hernia

Liver Cirrhosis

Condition Rating Guides

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

Chronic Mesenteric Ischemia

How the VA rates this condition

Diagnostic code

DC 7328

Rating range

0% – 80%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

You are status post intestinal resection with undernutrition and anemia, requiring total parenteral nutrition (TPN).

What the VA looks for

Undernutrition and anemia
Complete dependence on total parenteral nutrition (TPN)

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not getting CT angiography or MR angiography to document the mesenteric artery blockages — imaging evidence is essential for establishing the diagnosis and its connection to any bowel resection.

⚠Not documenting the intestinal consequences — under DC 7328 the rating depends on episodes of diarrhea per day, undernutrition and anemia, and whether you require oral supplementation, continuous medication, or total parenteral nutrition (TPN).

⚠Not connecting mesenteric ischemia to atherosclerosis risk factors that may be service-connected — hypertension, diabetes, and high cholesterol from service can cause mesenteric artery disease as a secondary condition.

⚠If your ischemia is managed without bowel resection, ask how it should be evaluated on its residual GI symptoms; if your claim was pending before May 19, 2024, the old criteria may also apply.