Peritoneal Adhesions

DC 7301Digestive38 CFR 4.114, DC 7301

Bands of scar tissue that form between abdominal organs and tissues, usually after surgery. The VA rates peritoneal adhesions based on the severity of symptoms such as pulling pain, bloating, and episodes of obstruction.

How the VA rates this condition

The VA rates this condition based on how often symptoms occur and how severe each episode is. The examiner will ask about the frequency, duration, and intensity of your episodes, as well as how they affect your ability to work.

Diagnostic code

DC 7301

Rating range

0% – 50%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.114, DC 7301. 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 severe peritoneal adhesions with definite partial obstruction shown by X-ray, with frequent and prolonged episodes of severe colic, distension, nausea, or vomiting, following severe peritonitis, ruptured appendix, perforated ulcer, or surgery with drainage.

What the VA looks for

Definite partial obstruction confirmed by X-ray or CT
Frequent and prolonged episodes of severe colic distension
Severe nausea and vomiting requiring medical intervention
History of severe peritonitis or surgical complication
Significant impact on employment and daily activities

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not connecting adhesions to in-service abdominal surgery — adhesions are a well-documented complication of any abdominal surgery performed during military service.
⚠Not getting imaging during symptomatic episodes — the higher ratings require X-ray or CT evidence of partial obstruction, and imaging during flare-ups captures this evidence.
⚠Not documenting the frequency and duration of colic episodes — the distinction between moderate and severe ratings depends on how often these episodes occur and how long they last.

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…

How the VA rates this condition

Diagnostic code

DC 7301

Rating range

0% – 50%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

What the VA looks for

Definite partial obstruction confirmed by X-ray or CT
Frequent and prolonged episodes of severe colic distension
Severe nausea and vomiting requiring medical intervention
History of severe peritonitis or surgical complication
Significant impact on employment and daily activities

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not connecting adhesions to in-service abdominal surgery — adhesions are a well-documented complication of any abdominal surgery performed during military service.

⚠Not getting imaging during symptomatic episodes — the higher ratings require X-ray or CT evidence of partial obstruction, and imaging during flare-ups captures this evidence.

⚠Not documenting the frequency and duration of colic episodes — the distinction between moderate and severe ratings depends on how often these episodes occur and how long they last.