Diagnostic Code 6027 · 38 CFR §4.79
A cataract is a clouding of the eye's natural lens that causes blurred vision, glare sensitivity, faded colors, and difficulty seeing in low light. Cataracts are most commonly age-related but can also result from eye trauma, radiation exposure, prolonged use of corticosteroid medications, or diabetes, all of which are relevant to veterans. Under the CFR, preoperative cataracts are evaluated under the General Rating Formula for Diseases of the Eye. Postoperative cataracts with a replacement lens (pseudophakia) are also evaluated under the General Rating Formula. If there is no replacement lens (aphakia), the condition is evaluated under DC 6029, which provides a minimum 30% rating.
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 60% | Preoperative or postoperative (with lens implant): seven or more incapacitating episodes requiring treatment visits during the past 12 months, or visual impairment equivalent to this level. |
| 40% | At least five but fewer than seven treatment visits for incapacitating episodes during the past 12 months. |
| 20% | At least three but fewer than five treatment visits for incapacitating episodes during the past 12 months. |
| 10% | At least one but fewer than three treatment visits, or mild visual impairment from cataracts. |
A diagnosis from an ophthalmologist documenting the cataracts and their impact on vision is required. If claiming traumatic cataracts from an in-service injury, include service treatment records. If cataracts developed secondary to diabetes or long-term steroid medication for a service-connected condition, a nexus opinion is needed. Post-surgical records showing complications, residual visual deficits, or the need for special corrective lenses are important.
Yes. Post-surgical cataract ratings depend on whether a replacement lens was implanted. With a lens implant (pseudophakia), the VA rates based on residual visual impairment under the General Rating Formula. Without a replacement lens (aphakia), a minimum 30% rating applies under DC 6029.
Yes. Traumatic cataracts from blasts, shrapnel, or direct eye injury during military service are directly service-connectable with documentation of the in-service event.