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Evidence checklist

Pneumothorax Residuals

DC 684338 CFR § 4.97Respiratory

Evidence strength

Mark what you already have below and your evidence strength appears here.

Target
Saved locally
01

Specialist opinion

Highest value0 of 2 collected
Pulmonary function tests (PFTs) documenting residual impairmentCritical

Spirometry and DLCO documenting any persistent restrictive or obstructive impairment or reduced diffusing capacity resulting from the pneumothorax and any surgical intervention.

Private provider · independent opinion
Nexus opinion linking pneumothorax to service ("at least as likely as not")Critical

A medical opinion connecting the pneumothorax to an in-service event such as trauma, blast injury, surgical procedure, positive pressure ventilation during service, or service-connected lung disease.

Private provider · independent opinion
02

Treatment records

0 of 3 collected
Chest imaging confirming pneumothorax history and residual pleural changesCritical

Chest X-ray or CT scan from the acute event and current imaging documenting any residual pleural thickening, blebs, bullae, or pleural fibrosis following the pneumothorax.

VA or private records · written request
Surgical records (chest tube, pleurodesis, or thoracoscopic surgery)

Operative and procedural records documenting any chest tube placement, chemical or mechanical pleurodesis, or video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) performed to treat the pneumothorax.

VA or private records · written request
Documentation of recurrent pneumothorax episodes

Medical records documenting multiple pneumothorax events, which increase recurrence risk and may support a continuous or higher rating.

VA or private records · written request
03

Lay statements

0 of 2 collected
Buddy statement from spouse, family, or fellow service member

A written statement from someone who can describe observable symptoms and how your condition affects daily life.

You or a witness · VA Form 21-4138 or 21-10210How to get this →
Personal statement describing symptoms and functional impact

Your own written account of how this condition affects your daily activities, work, and relationships. Describe your worst days.

You or a witness · VA Form 21-4138 or 21-10210How to get this →
04

Benefits questionnaire

0 of 1 collected
Completed DBQ Respiratory ConditionsCritical

Standardized form capturing PFT results, imaging findings, and functional impact of pneumothorax residuals.

Provider-completed · VA DBQ formHow to get this →
05

Service records

0 of 1 collected
Service treatment records (STRs)Critical

Military medical records showing in-service treatment, complaints, or injuries related to this condition.

NPRC / milConnect · SF-180

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