VASRD 7509 · Genitourinary System

Hydronephrosis VA Disability Rating

Swelling of the kidney due to urine backup from obstruction.

VA Rating Tiers

RatingCriteria
10%Only occasional attacks of colic
30%Frequent attacks requiring catheter drainage
60%Frequent colic with infection and diet restriction
80%Persistent severe symptoms with impaired renal function

How the VA Evaluates Hydronephrosis

Imaging, urinalysis, and urology records.

Approval rate

Moderate

Annual service-connected

2,600 veterans

Average rating

30%

Best Evidence to Gather

  • •Ultrasound
  • •CT scan
  • •Nephrology/urology consults

Strategy Tips

  • •Include all imaging and catheter use
  • •Log flare-ups

C&P Exam Pitfalls

  • •Failure to document frequency
  • •Missing surgical records

Common Filing Mistakes

  • •No imaging proof
  • •Only symptom-based claims

Onset Patterns

  • •Post-surgical
  • •Related to kidney stones

Secondary Conditions

Conditions commonly linked to Hydronephrosis. Service-connecting a secondary condition can increase your combined rating.

Common questions about Hydronephrosis

Is Hydronephrosis a VA-rated disability?
Yes. The VA rates Hydronephrosis under VASRD diagnostic code 7509 (Genitourinary System). Swelling of the kidney due to urine backup from obstruction.
What VA disability rating can I get for Hydronephrosis?
Possible VA ratings for Hydronephrosis are 10%, 30%, 60%, 80%. Examples: 10% — Only occasional attacks of colic; 30% — Frequent attacks requiring catheter drainage; 60% — Frequent colic with infection and diet restriction.
What's the typical VA rating awarded for Hydronephrosis?
The average awarded rating for Hydronephrosis is 30%. Roughly 2,600 veterans are service-connected for Hydronephrosis each year. Typical approval likelihood: Moderate.
What evidence helps prove Hydronephrosis for VA disability?
Strong evidence for a Hydronephrosis claim includes: Ultrasound; CT scan; Nephrology/urology consults.
What mistakes should veterans avoid when claiming Hydronephrosis?
Common pitfalls when filing for Hydronephrosis: No imaging proof; Only symptom-based claims.
What conditions are commonly secondary to Hydronephrosis?
Conditions often service-connected as secondary to Hydronephrosis include: , , . Filing for secondary conditions can increase a veteran's combined VA rating.

Estimate your combined rating

See how Hydronephrosis combines with your other service-connected conditions using the official VA combined-ratings formula.

Open the calculator