Diagnostic Code 7706 · 38 CFR §4.117
Splenectomy is the surgical removal of the spleen. The spleen plays a key role in filtering blood and fighting certain infections, so its removal permanently increases susceptibility to specific bacterial infections, particularly pneumococcal and meningococcal bacteria. Veterans commonly undergo splenectomy due to abdominal trauma from combat injuries, vehicle accidents, or training incidents that rupture the spleen. It can also result from treatment for blood disorders such as immune thrombocytopenic purpura. The VA assigns a fixed 20 percent rating for splenectomy, recognizing the permanent immune system compromise.
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 20% | Splenectomy. This is a fixed rating assigned for removal of the spleen regardless of current symptoms. The rating reflects the permanent increased susceptibility to infection. Complications such as recurrent infections may be rated separately. |
Surgical records documenting the splenectomy are the primary evidence. Service treatment records showing the in-service injury or condition that required the surgery establish nexus. Records of post-splenectomy vaccination requirements (pneumococcal, meningococcal) and any infections since surgery support the claim. Current medical records showing ongoing monitoring and preventive care are helpful.
Yes. DC 7706 provides a fixed 20% rating for spleen removal. However, if you experience complications such as recurrent infections, those may be rated separately under the appropriate diagnostic codes.
Yes. Recurrent infections, anemia, or other blood conditions that develop because of the absent spleen can be claimed as secondary to the service-connected splenectomy.