Diagnostic Code 7516 · 38 CFR §§4.115a
DC 7516 covers bladder fistula — an abnormal connection between the urinary bladder and another organ or the skin surface. The CFR assigns a 100% rating for postoperative suprapubic cystotomy. Otherwise, bladder fistula is an abnormal connection between the urinary bladder and another organ or the skin surface. These openings allow urine to leak into areas where it does not belong, such as the intestines, vagina, or through the abdominal wall. In veterans, fistulas may develop from combat injuries, surgical complications, radiation treatment, or chronic infections. The condition often causes persistent urinary leakage, infections, and significant quality of life impacts. Treatment may involve surgical repair, though some fistulas recur or cannot be fully corrected.
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 100% | |
| 60% | |
| 40% | |
| 20% | |
| 10% | |
| 0% |
Imaging or cystoscopy reports confirming the presence and location of the fistula, Surgical records if repair has been attempted, Documentation of urinary leakage frequency and absorbent material usage, Records of recurrent infections attributable to the fistula, Medical records connecting the fistula to an in-service event or condition