Complete amputation, lower extremity DC 5160
VA rates it under diagnostic code 5160 in 38 CFR 4.71a. Body system: Legs & feet.
How VA rates it
The schedule allows 2 rating levels for this code: 90%, and 100%. VA picks the level whose criteria best match your symptoms and records.
It affects one leg, so each side is rated on its own. When both sides are rated, VA adds the bilateral factor (38 CFR 4.26).
The schedule marks this code for special monthly compensation (SMC-K), which is paid on top of your combined rating.
Source: 38 CFR 4.71a on eCFR. Read the full criteria there before you file.
Rating levels and criteria
| Rating | What the schedule says |
|---|---|
| 100% | Trans-pelvic amputation (involving complete removal of the femur and intrinsic pelvic musculature along with any portion of the pelvic bones) |
| 90% | Disarticulation (involving complete removal of the femur and intrinsic pelvic musculature only) |
Criteria text from 38 CFR 4.71a, eCFR as of November 10, 2026. The eCFR is the official source if anything here differs.
Notes in the schedule (1)
Note: Separately evaluate residuals involving other body systems (e.g., bowel impairment, bladder impairment) under the appropriate diagnostic code.
Conditions it can lead to
If this condition is service connected, these conditions are often claimed as secondary to it (38 CFR 3.310). Each one still needs its own diagnosis.
Arteriosclerotic heart disease (coronary artery disease) DC 7005 Established link
VA's own rule says heart disease that develops after a service-connected leg amputation at or above the knee is caused by the amputation.
What to gather: A diagnosis of coronary artery disease or other heart disease. No nexus opinion is needed under 38 CFR 3.310(c), unless there is clear evidence against it.
Sources: 38 CFR 3.310(c) (heart disease after leg amputation)
Hypertension DC 7101 Established link
VA's rule covers "other cardiovascular disease" after a service-connected leg amputation at or above the knee, which includes high blood pressure.
What to gather: A hypertension diagnosis with blood pressure readings taken on at least three different days.
Sources: 38 CFR 3.310(c) (heart disease after leg amputation); 38 CFR 4.104
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Rating schedule data as of November 10, 2026. Secondary and presumptive links checked November 13, 2026.
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