Knee, resurfacing or replacement (prosthesis)

DC 5055 Knee & Leg

Knee, resurfacing or replacement (prosthesis) is a VA-ratable condition under diagnostic code 5055 in the Knee & Leg category. Maximum rating: 100%.

Rating Criteria

Rating Criteria
100% For 1 year following prosthetic implant (mandatory minimum rating)
60% Chronic residuals consisting of severe painful motion or weakness in the affected extremity
30% Minimum rating with prosthetic replacement. Intermediate degrees of residual weakness, pain, or limitation of motion

Important Notes

100% rating is mandatory for 1 year following prosthetic implant. After 1 year, rate on residuals with a minimum of 30%. Intermediate ratings (between 30% and 60%) are assigned for intermediate degrees of residual weakness, pain, or limitation of motion.

Filing Tips

Pro Tip: The VA won't connect the dots for you. That's your job. Build the paper trail before you file.

Gather medical evidence showing a current diagnosis of this condition.

Document in-service events, injuries, or exposures that caused or aggravated this condition.

Consider a nexus letter from a medical professional linking your condition to service.

Review the rating criteria for DC 5055 to understand what symptoms warrant higher ratings.