Diagnostic Code 7113 · 38 CFR §4.104
An arteriovenous (AV) fistula is an abnormal connection between an artery and a vein that allows blood to bypass the capillaries and flow directly from the artery to the vein. Traumatic AV fistulas commonly occur from penetrating injuries such as gunshot wounds, shrapnel, or stab wounds — making them particularly relevant for veterans. Congenital AV fistulas may also be service-aggravated. Large or symptomatic AV fistulas can cause high-output heart failure, swelling, pain, and impaired blood flow to the affected area.
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 100% | |
| 60% | |
| 40% | |
| 0% |
Imaging confirming the AV fistula — duplex ultrasound, CT angiography, or conventional angiography, Records of the original injury that caused the fistula (for traumatic cases), Echocardiogram to assess cardiac output and whether heart failure is developing, Documentation of symptoms — swelling, pain, warmth, bruit, skin changes, Vascular surgery records if repair was attempted, Functional assessment of the affected limb