VA Disability Rating for Large Intestine Resection (DC 7329)
Diagnostic Code 7329 · 38 CFR §4.114
What Is It?
Large intestine resection (colectomy) means having a portion of the colon surgically removed. Veterans may need this surgery due to combat injuries to the abdomen, severe colitis, diverticulitis complications, colon cancer, or traumatic bowel perforation. The colon primarily absorbs water and electrolytes, so removing a section leads to more frequent and looser bowel movements. The impact varies based on how much colon was removed and which section — some veterans adapt well while others face chronic diarrhea and urgency that significantly affects daily life.
Rating Criteria
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 40% | Extensive resection causing severe symptoms including chronic diarrhea, frequent urgent bowel movements, dehydration risk, and significant impact on daily activities and work capacity. |
| 20% | Moderate resection with ongoing bowel changes including more frequent stools, occasional urgency, and need for dietary management. Symptoms are disruptive but partially manageable. |
| 10% | Limited resection with mild changes in bowel habits, slightly more frequent stools, and minimal disruption to daily routine. |
Evidence Needed
- Surgical records documenting the colectomy including which section and how much was removed
- Post-operative records showing recovery and any complications
- Current treatment records for ongoing bowel symptoms
- Documentation of bowel movement frequency and consistency
- Records of any electrolyte imbalances or dehydration episodes
- Records of medications used to manage bowel symptoms
C&P Exam Tips
- Report how many bowel movements you have per day and their consistency
- Describe any urgency — how quickly you need to reach a bathroom after the urge hits
- Explain any episodes of incontinence, even minor ones
- Report if you have had any subsequent surgeries or complications since the original resection
- Describe how the bowel changes affect your ability to work, travel, and participate in activities
- Bring documentation showing which section of colon was removed and approximately how much
How to File
File under DC 7329 for resection of the large intestine. Include your surgical records specifying the extent of the resection and all follow-up treatment records. If the surgery resulted from a service-connected condition or injury, clearly establish that connection with medical evidence.
Common Mistakes
Minimizing changes in bowel habits Not distinguishing from small bowel resection Forgetting to document urgency and accidents
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the VA rate differently based on which part of the colon was removed?
The VA rates based on overall symptoms rather than the specific section removed. However, removal of different sections causes different problems. Losing the right side tends to cause more diarrhea, while losing the left side or rectum tends to cause more urgency and frequency issues. Describe your specific symptoms accurately regardless of which section was removed.
What if I have a colostomy bag?
If your resection resulted in a colostomy, you would be rated under the criteria for colostomy rather than just the resection. A colostomy generally results in a higher rating due to the significant impact on daily life.