Knee, resurfacing or replacement (prosthesis) DC 5055
VA rates it under diagnostic code 5055 in 38 CFR 4.71a. Body system: Legs & feet.
Also searched as: knee replacement, TKR, total knee replacement.
How VA rates it
The schedule allows 8 rating levels for this code: 30%, 40%, 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, 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).
Source: 38 CFR 4.71a on eCFR. Read the full criteria there before you file.
Rating levels and criteria
The schedule rates this as DC 5256 (Knee, ankylosis of) or DC 5261 (Leg, limitation of extension of) or DC 5262 (Tibia and fibula, impairment of).
| Rating | What the schedule says |
|---|---|
| 100% | For 4 months following implantation of prosthesis or resurfacing |
| 60% | Prosthetic replacement of knee joint:With chronic residuals consisting of severe painful motion or weakness in the affected extremity |
| 30% | Prosthetic replacement of knee joint:Minimum evaluation, total replacement only |
Criteria text from 38 CFR 4.71a, eCFR as of November 10, 2026. The eCFR is the official source if anything here differs.
With intermediate degrees of residual weakness, pain or limitation of motion rate by analogy to diagnostic codes 5256, 5261, or 5262.
Notes in the schedule (1)
Note: At the conclusion of the 100 percent evaluation period, evaluate resurfacing under diagnostic codes 5256 through 5262; there is no minimum evaluation for resurfacing.
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Rating schedule data as of November 10, 2026. Secondary and presumptive links checked November 13, 2026.
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