Secondary Condition Claim · VASRD 7332
A condition caused or aggravated by an already service-connected disability can be granted its own service connection as a secondary condition under 38 CFR § 3.310. Here's how that works for Rectum and Anus, Impairment of Sphincter Control when it develops after Rectum and Anus, Fistula-in-Ano.
Muscle damage from repeated infections
Primary condition · VASRD 7336
Rectum and Anus, Fistula-in-Ano
An abnormal tunnel between the rectum and skin near the anus, often from infection or abscess.
Secondary condition · VASRD 7332
Rectum and Anus, Impairment of Sphincter Control
Loss of control over bowel movements, possibly causing leakage or incontinence.
The VA rates Rectum and Anus, Impairment of Sphincter Control the same way whether it's claimed directly or as secondary to Rectum and Anus, Fistula-in-Ano — severity of Rectum and Anus, Impairment of Sphincter Control itself determines the percentage.
Example combined rating
30% Rectum and Anus, Fistula-in-Ano + 30% Rectum and Anus, Impairment of Sphincter Control = 51%
The VA combines ratings with Table I of 38 CFR 4.25, not simple addition — 30% and 30% combine to 51%, not 60%. These figures are illustrative; your actual rating for each condition depends on your own evaluation.
Primary condition
Full Rectum and Anus, Fistula-in-Ano guide
Secondary condition
Full Rectum and Anus, Impairment of Sphincter Control guide
See how Rectum and Anus, Fistula-in-Ano and Rectum and Anus, Impairment of Sphincter Control combine with the rest of your service-connected conditions using the official VA combined-ratings formula.
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