Chronic Mesenteric Venous Thrombosis

DC 7323Digestive38 CFR 4.114, DC 7323

A blood clot in the veins that drain the intestines, which can damage bowel tissue and cause chronic pain, malabsorption, and bowel problems. Some veterans need long-term blood thinners or have had bowel removed. The VA rates it based on bowel function, nutrition, and treatment needs.

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 7323

Rating range

10% – 100%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.114, DC 7323. 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 total bowel dysfunction with severe malnutrition requiring IV nutrition, or you have had massive bowel resection causing short bowel syndrome. You cannot maintain adequate nutrition by mouth.

What the VA looks for

Short bowel syndrome from extensive resection
Total parenteral nutrition (TPN) dependence
Severe malnutrition and anemia
General debility and inability to work
Serious complications such as liver abscess or recurrent thrombosis

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not documenting the original thrombosis with imaging — CT angiography or MRI showing the mesenteric venous thrombosis is critical evidence. Keep copies of all imaging reports.
⚠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 tracking weight and nutritional labs over time — progressive weight loss and worsening lab values (albumin, prealbumin, vitamins) support a higher rating.
⚠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

View evidence checklist →See secondary conditions →

Condition Rating Guides

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

Chronic Mesenteric Venous Thrombosis

How the VA rates this condition

Diagnostic code

DC 7323

Rating range

10% – 100%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

What the VA looks for

Short bowel syndrome from extensive resection
Total parenteral nutrition (TPN) dependence
Severe malnutrition and anemia
General debility and inability to work
Serious complications such as liver abscess or recurrent thrombosis

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not documenting the original thrombosis with imaging — CT angiography or MRI showing the mesenteric venous thrombosis is critical evidence. Keep copies of all imaging reports.

⚠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 tracking weight and nutritional labs over time — progressive weight loss and worsening lab values (albumin, prealbumin, vitamins) support a higher rating.

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