Iliac Artery Aneurysm

DC 7111Cardiovascular38 CFR 4.104, DC 7111

A weakening and bulging of the iliac artery in the pelvis. Small aneurysms may be watched with regular imaging, while larger ones may need surgical repair. The VA rates iliac artery aneurysm based on symptoms, size, and whether surgery was needed.

How the VA rates this condition

The VA rates this condition based on how much it affects your ability to work and carry out daily activities. The examiner will focus on the functional limitations your condition causes, not just the diagnosis itself.

Diagnostic code

DC 7111

Rating range

0% – 100%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.104, DC 7111. 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 aneurysm has caused critical limb ischemia, rest pain, or life-threatening complications. You have ischemic ulcers or gangrene, or the aneurysm ruptured requiring emergency repair.

What the VA looks for

Rest pain in lower extremities
Deep ischemic ulcers documented
Ankle-brachial index of 0.4 or less
Emergency surgical repair records
Critical limb ischemia documented

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not getting regular CT angiography or duplex ultrasound to document aneurysm size and growth over time — the VA needs serial imaging to evaluate severity and progression.
⚠Not documenting leg symptoms such as claudication, numbness, or coldness — even a 0% rated aneurysm establishes service connection and may qualify for monitoring and treatment.
⚠Not connecting the iliac aneurysm to other vascular conditions — iliac aneurysms often occur alongside abdominal aortic aneurysms and peripheral artery disease, which may warrant separate ratings.
⚠Not filing for surgical residuals separately — scarring, nerve damage, and chronic pain from aneurysm repair surgery may each qualify for additional ratings.

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Artery and Vein 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 7111

Rating range

0% – 100%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

Your aneurysm has caused critical limb ischemia, rest pain, or life-threatening complications. You have ischemic ulcers or gangrene, or the aneurysm ruptured requiring emergency repair.

What the VA looks for

Rest pain in lower extremities
Deep ischemic ulcers documented
Ankle-brachial index of 0.4 or less
Emergency surgical repair records
Critical limb ischemia documented

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not getting regular CT angiography or duplex ultrasound to document aneurysm size and growth over time — the VA needs serial imaging to evaluate severity and progression.

⚠Not documenting leg symptoms such as claudication, numbness, or coldness — even a 0% rated aneurysm establishes service connection and may qualify for monitoring and treatment.

⚠Not connecting the iliac aneurysm to other vascular conditions — iliac aneurysms often occur alongside abdominal aortic aneurysms and peripheral artery disease, which may warrant separate ratings.

⚠Not filing for surgical residuals separately — scarring, nerve damage, and chronic pain from aneurysm repair surgery may each qualify for additional ratings.