Skull, loss of part of, both inner and outer tables DC 5296
VA rates it under diagnostic code 5296 in 38 CFR 4.71a. Body system: Head & nerves.
How VA rates it
The schedule allows 4 rating levels for this code: 10%, 30%, 50%, and 80%. VA picks the level whose criteria best match your symptoms and records.
Source: 38 CFR 4.71a on eCFR. Read the full criteria there before you file.
Rating levels and criteria
| Rating | What the schedule says |
|---|---|
| 80% | With brain hernia |
| 50% | Without brain hernia:Area larger than size of a 50-cent piece or 1.140 in (7.355 cm) |
| 30% | Without brain hernia:Area intermediate |
| 10% | Without brain hernia:Area smaller than the size of a 25-cent piece or 0.716 in (4.619 cm) |
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: Rate separately for intracranial complications.
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Rating schedule data as of November 10, 2026. Secondary and presumptive links checked November 13, 2026.
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