Diagnostic Code 5205 · 38 CFR §4.71a
Ankylosis of the elbow means the elbow joint is completely frozen or fused, with no bending or straightening movement possible. The position in which the elbow is fixed determines the rating level. A favorable angle is between 85 and 95 degrees of flexion, which allows you to bring your hand to your face. An intermediate angle is outside this range but still partially functional. An unfavorable angle, particularly full extension where the arm is straight, or extreme flexion where the forearm is against the upper arm, is most disabling. Veterans may develop elbow ankylosis from severe fractures, burns, blast injuries, or surgical fusion for instability or infection.
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 60% | |
| 50% | |
| 40% |
Imaging confirming complete fusion or absence of elbow motion, Range of motion testing showing zero active motion at the elbow, Documentation of the angle at which the elbow is fixed, Medical records linking the condition to service, Records showing dominant versus non-dominant arm