Post-Phlebitic Syndrome

DC 7123Cardiovascular38 CFR 4.104, DC 7123

A chronic condition that develops after deep vein thrombosis (DVT), causing persistent swelling, pain, skin changes, and potentially ulceration in the affected leg. Also known as post-thrombotic syndrome. The VA rates each affected extremity separately based on the severity of edema, stasis dermatitis, and ulceration.

How the VA rates this condition

The VA rates this condition based on the type, severity, and frequency of your symptoms. The examiner will evaluate your specific symptoms and how they affect your daily life and ability to work.

Diagnostic code

DC 7123

Rating range

10% – 100%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.104, DC 7123. 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 massive board-like edema with constant pain at rest. Your condition is so severe that it essentially precludes ambulation or functional use of the affected extremity.

What the VA looks for

Massive board-like edema of affected extremity
Constant pain at rest documented
Severely limited ambulation
Extensive skin breakdown and tissue damage
Inability to use affected extremity functionally

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not documenting the original DVT event — service treatment records or records of DVT during or related to service are essential for establishing the connection between the DVT and the current post-phlebitic syndrome.
⚠Not photographing skin changes and ulcerations — stasis pigmentation, eczema, and ulcers may not be at their worst during a C&P exam. Time-stamped photographs showing progression over weeks and months are powerful evidence.
⚠Not filing for bilateral ratings if both legs are affected — each extremity is rated separately, so document symptoms in each leg independently.
⚠Not reporting the functional impact on employment — describe how leg swelling, pain, and skin breakdown limit your ability to stand, walk, or sit for extended periods at work.

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…

Post-Phlebitic Syndrome

How the VA rates this condition

The VA rates this condition based on the type, severity, and frequency of your symptoms. The examiner will evaluate your specific symptoms and how they affect your daily life and ability to work.

Diagnostic code

DC 7123

Rating range

10% – 100%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

You have massive board-like edema with constant pain at rest. Your condition is so severe that it essentially precludes ambulation or functional use of the affected extremity.

What the VA looks for

Massive board-like edema of affected extremity
Constant pain at rest documented
Severely limited ambulation
Extensive skin breakdown and tissue damage
Inability to use affected extremity functionally

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not documenting the original DVT event — service treatment records or records of DVT during or related to service are essential for establishing the connection between the DVT and the current post-phlebitic syndrome.

⚠Not photographing skin changes and ulcerations — stasis pigmentation, eczema, and ulcers may not be at their worst during a C&P exam. Time-stamped photographs showing progression over weeks and months are powerful evidence.

⚠Not filing for bilateral ratings if both legs are affected — each extremity is rated separately, so document symptoms in each leg independently.

⚠Not reporting the functional impact on employment — describe how leg swelling, pain, and skin breakdown limit your ability to stand, walk, or sit for extended periods at work.