Spleen Rupture Without Splenectomy — VA Rating (DC 7707)
Diagnostic Code 7707 · 38 CFR §4.117
What Is It?
Rupture of the spleen without splenectomy occurs when the spleen is damaged but not completely removed. Modern trauma medicine sometimes allows for splenic salvage through non-operative management or partial splenectomy, preserving some splenic function. Veterans may experience splenic rupture from combat injuries, training accidents, or vehicle crashes during service. While preserving the spleen is preferable to removal, the injured spleen may not function as effectively, and there may be residual pain, increased infection risk, or need for activity restrictions to prevent re-injury.
Rating Criteria
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 20% | Healed splenic rupture with ongoing symptoms requiring significant activity restrictions or evidence of compromised splenic function. |
| 10% | Healed splenic rupture with mild residual symptoms such as occasional pain or minor activity restrictions. |
| 0% | History of splenic rupture that has healed with no residual symptoms or functional limitation. |
Evidence Needed
Hospital records documenting the splenic injury and treatment decision (non-operative management or partial splenectomy) are needed. Imaging showing the status of the spleen post-injury is important. Service treatment records establishing the in-service cause of the rupture are essential. Follow-up records documenting any functional compromise or activity restrictions are helpful.
C&P Exam Tips
Describe the original injury and treatment. Explain any ongoing symptoms: pain in the left upper abdomen, activity restrictions to prevent re-injury, and any increased frequency of infections. If imaging has shown a healed but altered spleen, reference those results.
How to File
File on VA Form 21-526EZ with DC 7707. Submit hospital records from the splenic injury, imaging studies, and service treatment records. If the condition later requires splenectomy, update the claim to DC 7706.
Common Mistakes
Not filing because the spleen was not removed is a mistake — residual effects from a ruptured spleen are compensable. Not monitoring for long-term complications and documenting them creates gaps in the record.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I later need my spleen removed?
If a previously ruptured spleen later requires removal, you can file for an increased rating under DC 7706, which provides a fixed 20% rating for splenectomy. The existing service connection for the splenic injury makes this straightforward.