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Evidence checklist

Ventral Hernia (Incisional)

DC 733838 CFR § 4.114Digestive

Evidence strength

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

Target
Saved locally
01

Specialist opinion

Highest value0 of 3 collected
Physical examination documenting hernia type, size, and reducibilityCritical

Clinical examination documenting ventral hernia classification (umbilical, epigastric, incisional), defect dimensions, reducibility, and symptoms including pain with activity, Valsalva, or palpation.

Private provider · independent opinion
CT abdomen documenting hernia defect, contents, and defect sizeCritical

CT scan of the abdomen documenting the hernia defect dimensions, herniated contents (omentum, bowel), and any complications (incarceration, bowel dilation) — standard pre-operative assessment.

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

A medical opinion connecting the ventral hernia to in-service abdominal surgery incision (incisional hernia), abdominal trauma, prolonged heavy lifting during service, or service-connected wound.

Private provider · independent opinion
02

Treatment records

0 of 2 collected
Surgical records from prior abdominal surgery and hernia repair

Operative reports from original abdominal surgery (creating the incisional hernia) and any hernia repair procedures, including mesh type, technique, recurrence history, and complications.

VA or private records · written request
Hernia recurrence documentation

Records documenting recurrence after prior repair, size progression on imaging, and escalating symptoms — recurrent or large hernias support higher ratings.

VA or private records · written request
03

Lay statements

0 of 3 collected
Symptom documentation (pain, limitation of activity, bowel complications)

Medical records documenting pain pattern, activity restrictions from hernia discomfort, episodes of incarceration or strangulation, and impact on daily function.

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

Standardized form capturing ventral hernia type, defect size, reducibility, repair history, recurrence, and functional limitations.

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
Condition guideRating criteria and what VA looks forBuddy statement builderGuided VA Form 21-10210

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