Total Uterus Removal (Hysterectomy)

DC 7617Gynecological/Breast38 CFR 4.116, DC 7617

Surgical removal of the entire uterus (total hysterectomy), which may be performed for fibroids, cancer, endometriosis, or other uterine conditions. The VA provides a fixed 30% rating for three months after surgery to allow recovery. After the initial three-month period, the rating is based on any remaining symptoms or complications.

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 7617

Rating range

30% – 100%

Rating levels

Rating criteria are defined in 38 CFR 4.116, DC 7617. 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 had a total hysterectomy with severe complications such as post-surgical fistula, chronic infections, severe adhesive disease requiring repeat surgery, or devastating hormonal effects not responsive to treatment.

What the VA looks for

Post-surgical fistula (vesicovaginal or rectovaginal)
Chronic post-surgical infections
Severe adhesive disease requiring reoperation
Severe premature menopause unresponsive to HRT
Complete disability from surgical complications

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not applying for Special Monthly Compensation (SMC-K) for loss of a creative organ — every veteran who has a hysterectomy is entitled to this additional monthly payment, but it must be specifically claimed.
⚠Not filing for the temporary 100% convalescent rating under 38 CFR 4.30 for the surgical recovery period — this provides full compensation while you recover.
⚠Overlooking secondary conditions from hormone loss if ovaries were also removed — osteoporosis, cardiovascular changes, depression, and sexual dysfunction are all separately ratable.
⚠Not connecting the uterine condition to service — fibroids, endometriosis, and uterine cancer can be linked to toxic exposures, physical demands, or delayed diagnosis during military service.

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Gynecological Conditions and Disorders of the Breast

View evidence checklist →See secondary conditions →

Condition Rating Guides

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Total Uterus Removal (Hysterectomy)

How the VA rates this condition

Diagnostic code

DC 7617

Rating range

30% – 100%

Rating levels

Rating Levels

What the VA looks for

Post-surgical fistula (vesicovaginal or rectovaginal)
Chronic post-surgical infections
Severe adhesive disease requiring reoperation
Severe premature menopause unresponsive to HRT
Complete disability from surgical complications

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not applying for Special Monthly Compensation (SMC-K) for loss of a creative organ — every veteran who has a hysterectomy is entitled to this additional monthly payment, but it must be specifically claimed.

⚠Not filing for the temporary 100% convalescent rating under 38 CFR 4.30 for the surgical recovery period — this provides full compensation while you recover.

⚠Overlooking secondary conditions from hormone loss if ovaries were also removed — osteoporosis, cardiovascular changes, depression, and sexual dysfunction are all separately ratable.

⚠Not connecting the uterine condition to service — fibroids, endometriosis, and uterine cancer can be linked to toxic exposures, physical demands, or delayed diagnosis during military service.