Thigh Amputation, Middle/Lower Third

DC 5162Musculoskeletal38 CFR 4.71a, DC 5162

Amputation of the thigh at the middle or lower third of the femur. This above-knee amputation preserves enough femoral stump length for effective prosthetic fitting and use. The longer stump provides better leverage and control over a prosthetic knee and leg. The VA assigns a fixed 60 percent schedular rating.

How the VA rates this condition

This condition has a fixed rating under VA regulations. Unlike most conditions, the rating does not vary based on severity. If the VA grants service connection, the rating percentage is set by regulation.

Diagnostic code

DC 5162

Rating range

60% – 60%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.71a, DC 5162. 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 amputation of the thigh at the middle or lower third of the femur. The residual stump is long enough for effective prosthetic fitting, and you can typically use a prosthetic leg for walking, though endurance and terrain navigation are limited.

What the VA looks for

Surgical or trauma records of middle or lower-third thigh amputation
Stump length measurement confirming middle/lower-third level
Prosthetic fitting and functional assessment records
Gait analysis with prosthesis documented
Mobility limitations despite prosthetic use documented
Special monthly compensation eligibility assessed

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not documenting the exact stump length — the distinction between upper-third (80%) and middle/lower-third (60%) depends on precise measurement from the perineum. If your stump is borderline, ensure accurate measurement to receive the correct rating.
⚠Not claiming special monthly compensation (SMC) — thigh amputation qualifies for SMC-k at minimum. Ensure all applicable SMC entitlements are adjudicated.
⚠Not filing phantom limb pain as a separate secondary claim — chronic phantom leg pain, tingling, or burning should be documented and claimed separately as a neurological condition.
⚠Not documenting prosthetic fit issues — socket problems, skin breakdown, and prosthetic knee malfunction should be documented to support the disability picture.
⚠Not claiming secondary conditions — compensatory low back pain, contralateral knee/hip problems, and upper extremity overuse from crutches or cane should be claimed as secondary conditions.

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Amputations

View evidence checklist →See secondary conditions →

Condition Rating Guides

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

Thigh Amputation, Middle/Lower Third

How the VA rates this condition

Diagnostic code

DC 5162

Rating range

60% – 60%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

What the VA looks for

Surgical or trauma records of middle or lower-third thigh amputation
Stump length measurement confirming middle/lower-third level
Prosthetic fitting and functional assessment records
Gait analysis with prosthesis documented
Mobility limitations despite prosthetic use documented
Special monthly compensation eligibility assessed

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not documenting the exact stump length — the distinction between upper-third (80%) and middle/lower-third (60%) depends on precise measurement from the perineum. If your stump is borderline, ensure accurate measurement to receive the correct rating.

⚠Not claiming special monthly compensation (SMC) — thigh amputation qualifies for SMC-k at minimum. Ensure all applicable SMC entitlements are adjudicated.

⚠Not filing phantom limb pain as a separate secondary claim — chronic phantom leg pain, tingling, or burning should be documented and claimed separately as a neurological condition.

⚠Not documenting prosthetic fit issues — socket problems, skin breakdown, and prosthetic knee malfunction should be documented to support the disability picture.

⚠Not claiming secondary conditions — compensatory low back pain, contralateral knee/hip problems, and upper extremity overuse from crutches or cane should be claimed as secondary conditions.