Diagnostic Code 7617 · 38 CFR §4.116
DC 7617 covers the complete removal of the uterus and both ovaries. This is the most extensive gynecological surgery and results in immediate surgical menopause because both sources of ovarian hormones are removed. The VA provides a 100 percent rating for three months following the surgery to account for recovery, then assigns a permanent 50 percent rating. This differs from DC 7618, which covers removal of the uterus alone (without both ovaries). Veterans may require this procedure for endometriosis, cancer, fibroids, chronic pelvic pain, or heavy bleeding that does not respond to other treatments.
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 100% | Assigned for three months immediately following the complete removal of the uterus and both ovaries. This temporary rating covers the surgical recovery period. |
| 50% | Permanent rating assigned after the three-month convalescence period. This reflects the lasting impact of complete surgical menopause including hormonal changes, hot flashes, bone density concerns, and other long-term effects of losing both ovaries. |
Surgical records confirming the hysterectomy and specifying that both ovaries were removed are the primary evidence. The operative report should clearly state that a bilateral oophorectomy was performed along with the hysterectomy. If the procedure was performed to treat a service-connected condition (endometriosis, fibroids), include the records establishing that connection. Post-surgical treatment records showing ongoing hormone replacement therapy, management of menopausal symptoms, or complications from surgery support the claim. If the surgery was performed at a VA facility, those records should be readily available.
Yes, but temporarily. The VA assigns a 100 percent rating for three months following the surgery. After that, your permanent rating is 50 percent because both ovaries were removed, causing complete surgical menopause. This is higher than the 30 percent rating under DC 7618, which applies when the uterus is removed but ovaries are preserved.
Yes. Surgical menopause caused by removal of both ovaries can cause significant mood changes, including depression. If you develop depression after a service-connected hysterectomy, you can claim it as a secondary condition with a mental health nexus opinion.
Yes. There is no time limit for filing a VA disability claim. If your hysterectomy was related to a service-connected condition or was performed during service, you can file at any time. The effective date will typically be the date you file or the date of your Intent to File.