Chronic Mesenteric Venous Thrombosis

DC 7328Digestive38 CFR 4.114, DC 7328

A blood clot in the veins that drain the intestines, which can damage bowel tissue and cause chronic pain, malabsorption, and bowel problems. 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 thrombosis has caused bowel damage or resection; thrombosis managed with anticoagulation alone is evaluated on its residual GI symptoms (and any anticoagulation side effects are rated separately). 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) — for example, short bowel syndrome from extensive resection.

What the VA looks for

Short bowel syndrome / extensive resection
Undernutrition and anemia
Complete dependence on total parenteral nutrition (TPN)

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not documenting the original thrombosis with imaging — CT angiography or MRI showing the mesenteric venous thrombosis is critical evidence, especially to connect it 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 the condition to a service-related cause — common links include hypercoagulability from in-service trauma, immobilization during deployment, or medication-induced clotting disorders.
⚠Not claiming anticoagulation side effects separately — if your blood thinner causes bleeding complications, bruising, or activity limitations, document these as additional impairments.

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Intestinal Conditions

See secondary conditions →

Related Conditions

Conditions commonly associated with Chronic Mesenteric Venous Thrombosis 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

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Chronic Mesenteric Venous Thrombosis

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) — for example, short bowel syndrome from extensive resection.

What the VA looks for

Short bowel syndrome / extensive resection
Undernutrition and anemia
Complete dependence on total parenteral nutrition (TPN)

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not documenting the original thrombosis with imaging — CT angiography or MRI showing the mesenteric venous thrombosis is critical evidence, especially to connect it 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 the condition to a service-related cause — common links include hypercoagulability from in-service trauma, immobilization during deployment, or medication-induced clotting disorders.

⚠Not claiming anticoagulation side effects separately — if your blood thinner causes bleeding complications, bruising, or activity limitations, document these as additional impairments.