Urinary Diversion Residuals

DC 7518Genitourinary38 CFR 4.115a, DC 7518

Ongoing problems after surgery that reroutes your urine flow, such as an ileal conduit or neobladder. The VA rates urinary diversion residuals based on the type of management needed, complications, and kidney function.

How the VA rates this condition

The VA rates this condition based on the type and intensity of treatment you require. Higher ratings correspond to more aggressive treatment regimens, such as daily medication, insulin dependence, or the need for ongoing medical management.

Diagnostic code

DC 7518

Rating range

30% – 100%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.115a, DC 7518. 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

Your urinary diversion requires constant management and has caused kidney damage, or you need regular dialysis due to complications.

What the VA looks for

Constant management required for urinary diversion
Renal impairment from diversion complications
Regular dialysis required
BUN more than 80mg% or creatinine more than 8mg%
Markedly decreased kidney function
Precludes more than sedentary activity

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not documenting every infection, hospitalization, and complication — the VA needs a clear record of how often problems occur to determine the correct rating.
⚠Not reporting all the ways the diversion affects your daily life — skin breakdown around the stoma, appliance leaks, and limitations on physical activity all matter.
⚠Not filing for secondary conditions — urinary diversions can cause kidney damage, chronic skin conditions, depression, and sexual dysfunction that may each be rated separately.
⚠Not requesting re-evaluation when complications increase over time — urinary diversion residuals often worsen as you age.

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Kidney Conditions (Nephrology)

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 7518

Rating range

30% – 100%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

Your urinary diversion requires constant management and has caused kidney damage, or you need regular dialysis due to complications.

What the VA looks for

Constant management required for urinary diversion
Renal impairment from diversion complications
Regular dialysis required
BUN more than 80mg% or creatinine more than 8mg%
Markedly decreased kidney function
Precludes more than sedentary activity

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not documenting every infection, hospitalization, and complication — the VA needs a clear record of how often problems occur to determine the correct rating.

⚠Not reporting all the ways the diversion affects your daily life — skin breakdown around the stoma, appliance leaks, and limitations on physical activity all matter.

⚠Not filing for secondary conditions — urinary diversions can cause kidney damage, chronic skin conditions, depression, and sexual dysfunction that may each be rated separately.

⚠Not requesting re-evaluation when complications increase over time — urinary diversion residuals often worsen as you age.