Diagnostic Code 7318 · 38 CFR §4.114
This code covers the lasting effects of having your gallbladder surgically removed (cholecystectomy). Without a gallbladder, bile flows continuously into the small intestine rather than being stored and released on demand. This can cause chronic diarrhea — especially after fatty meals — bloating, abdominal cramping, and a condition called bile acid malabsorption. Many veterans need gallbladder removal during or after service due to gallstones, gallbladder inflammation, or abdominal trauma. While doctors often say you can live fine without a gallbladder, many veterans experience ongoing digestive problems for years afterward.
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 30% | |
| 10% |
Surgical records documenting the cholecystectomy procedure, Post-operative treatment records showing ongoing digestive symptoms, Records of medications prescribed for post-removal symptoms (bile acid sequestrants, anti-diarrheal medications), Documentation of dietary modifications required since the surgery, Lab results if bile acid malabsorption testing has been done, Records showing how frequently diarrhea and other symptoms occur