Thoracic Aortic Aneurysm

DC 7110Cardiovascular38 CFR 4.104, DC 7110

An abnormal bulging or enlargement of the aorta in the chest. Can result from hypertension, connective tissue disorders, or trauma sustained during military service. The VA rates thoracic aortic aneurysm based on size, whether surgical repair has been performed, and residual cardiac or vascular dysfunction.

How the VA rates this condition

The VA rates this condition based on objective clinical measurements and test results. The examiner will use standardized tests or lab values to determine the severity of your condition rather than relying primarily on subjective symptom reports.

Diagnostic code

DC 7110

Rating range

0% – 100%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.104, DC 7110. 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 a thoracic aortic aneurysm 5 centimeters or larger in diameter, or you have had a surgical repair and have chronic congestive heart failure, workload of 3 METs or less, or ejection fraction less than 30 percent.

What the VA looks for

CT angiogram showing aneurysm 5 cm or larger
Symptomatic aneurysm requiring surgical intervention
Hospital admission for surgical correction
Post-operative cardiac function assessment
Chronic congestive heart failure from aortic disease

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not getting regular surveillance imaging — CT angiography or MRA documenting the size and progression of the aneurysm is essential for establishing and increasing the rating.
⚠Not connecting the aneurysm to service-connected hypertension — long-standing high blood pressure is a leading cause of aortic aneurysm and supports secondary service connection.
⚠Not claiming residual complications after surgical repair — endovascular or open repair can leave residual vascular dysfunction, pain, or cardiac impairment that should be rated separately.
⚠Not documenting exercise restrictions imposed by physicians — the 60% rating requires evidence that the aneurysm precludes exertion, so physician-directed activity limitations must be in the record.

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Artery and Vein Conditions

View evidence checklist →See secondary conditions →

Condition Rating Guides

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Thoracic Aortic Aneurysm

How the VA rates this condition

Diagnostic code

DC 7110

Rating range

0% – 100%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

What the VA looks for

CT angiogram showing aneurysm 5 cm or larger
Symptomatic aneurysm requiring surgical intervention
Hospital admission for surgical correction
Post-operative cardiac function assessment
Chronic congestive heart failure from aortic disease

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not getting regular surveillance imaging — CT angiography or MRA documenting the size and progression of the aneurysm is essential for establishing and increasing the rating.

⚠Not connecting the aneurysm to service-connected hypertension — long-standing high blood pressure is a leading cause of aortic aneurysm and supports secondary service connection.

⚠Not claiming residual complications after surgical repair — endovascular or open repair can leave residual vascular dysfunction, pain, or cardiac impairment that should be rated separately.

⚠Not documenting exercise restrictions imposed by physicians — the 60% rating requires evidence that the aneurysm precludes exertion, so physician-directed activity limitations must be in the record.