Complete Amputation of the Lower Extremity (Hip Disarticulation or Trans-Pelvic) VA Disability Rating

VA Rating Tiers

How the VA Evaluates Complete Amputation of the Lower Extremity (Hip Disarticulation or Trans-Pelvic)

Requires operative records identifying which level was performed: trans-pelvic amputation (complete removal of the femur and intrinsic pelvic musculature along with any portion of the pelvic bones) is evaluated at the higher level, and disarticulation (complete removal of the femur and intrinsic pelvic musculature only) at the lower one. DC 5160 also carries a note directing that residuals involving other body systems — for example bowel impairment or bladder impairment — be separately evaluated under the appropriate diagnostic code.

Vetrify editorial estimates informed by VA published claims data (VBA Annual Benefits Report) and the VA rating schedule — not official VA statistics.

Secondary Conditions

Conditions commonly linked to Complete Amputation of the Lower Extremity (Hip Disarticulation or Trans-Pelvic). Service-connecting a secondary condition can increase your combined rating.

• Severe Balance Impairment

  Loss of entire leg affects gait and balance severely

• Chronic Skin Breakdown

  Wheelchair use and prosthetic attempts can cause sores

Common questions about Complete Amputation of the Lower Extremity (Hip Disarticulation or Trans-Pelvic)

Is Complete Amputation of the Lower Extremity (Hip Disarticulation or Trans-Pelvic) a VA-rated disability?

Yes. The VA rates Complete Amputation of the Lower Extremity (Hip Disarticulation or Trans-Pelvic) under VASRD diagnostic code 5160 (Musculoskeletal System). Complete amputation of the leg at the hip. The schedule sets two levels: disarticulation, which removes the femur and the intrinsic pelvic musculature only, and…

What VA disability rating can I get for Complete Amputation of the Lower Extremity (Hip Disarticulation or Trans-Pelvic)?

Possible VA ratings for Complete Amputation of the Lower Extremity (Hip Disarticulation or Trans-Pelvic) are 100%, 90%. Examples: 100%: The entire leg was removed along with part of the pelvic bone.; 90%: The whole leg was removed at the hip — the thigh bone and the hip muscles only..

What's the typical VA rating awarded for Complete Amputation of the Lower Extremity (Hip Disarticulation or Trans-Pelvic)?

Vetrify estimates the typical rating awarded for Complete Amputation of the Lower Extremity (Hip Disarticulation or Trans-Pelvic) at around 90%, based on VA claims data and the rating schedule. An estimated 500 veterans are service-connected for Complete Amputation of the Lower Extremity (Hip Disarticulation or Trans-…

What evidence helps prove Complete Amputation of the Lower Extremity (Hip Disarticulation or Trans-Pelvic) for VA disability?

Strong evidence for a Complete Amputation of the Lower Extremity (Hip Disarticulation or Trans-Pelvic) claim includes: Surgical report of hip disarticulation; Photos or medical imaging of the area; PT records showing inability to ambulate.

What mistakes should veterans avoid when claiming Complete Amputation of the Lower Extremity (Hip Disarticulation or Trans-Pelvic)?

Common pitfalls when filing for Complete Amputation of the Lower Extremity (Hip Disarticulation or Trans-Pelvic): Not providing complete surgical or post-op rehab records; Not documenting current limitations like wheelchair dependence.

What conditions are commonly secondary to Complete Amputation of the Lower Extremity (Hip Disarticulation or Trans-Pelvic)?

Conditions often service-connected as secondary to Complete Amputation of the Lower Extremity (Hip Disarticulation or Trans-Pelvic) include: Severe Balance Impairment, Chronic Skin Breakdown. Filing for secondary conditions can increase a veteran's combined VA rating.

Official sources

1. 38 CFR § 4.71a — Schedule of ratings — musculoskeletal system (Diagnostic Code 5160)

Rating criteria on this page are an educational summary of the cited regulation — the eCFR text is authoritative. See how Vetrify derives its numbers.