Diagnostic Code 6518 · 38 CFR §4.97
A total laryngectomy is the complete surgical removal of the larynx (voice box), typically performed to treat laryngeal cancer. After this surgery, the person breathes through a permanent stoma (opening) in the neck rather than through the nose and mouth, and loses their natural voice entirely. Veterans who develop laryngeal cancer related to military exposures such as asbestos, Agent Orange, burn pits, or other toxic substances may need this surgery. The VA automatically assigns a 100 percent disability rating for total laryngectomy.
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 100% |
Surgical operative report documenting the total laryngectomy, Pathology report confirming the reason for surgery (typically cancer), Evidence connecting the cancer to military service — toxic exposure records, deployment history, Post-surgical treatment records showing the permanent stoma and voice rehabilitation efforts