VA Disability Rating for Residuals of Vagotomy (DC 7348)
Diagnostic Code 7348 · 38 CFR §4.114
What Is It?
A vagotomy is a surgical procedure that cuts branches of the vagus nerve to reduce stomach acid production. This surgery was commonly performed to treat severe peptic ulcers, particularly before modern acid-reducing medications became available. Many veterans underwent vagotomy during or after their service for ulcers that developed from the stress and conditions of military life. While the surgery addresses the ulcer problem, cutting the vagus nerve affects stomach motility and emptying, often causing chronic side effects including dumping syndrome, diarrhea, and difficulty digesting food properly.
Rating Criteria
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 40% | Severe residuals with chronic diarrhea, dumping syndrome after most meals, significant weight loss, and symptoms that substantially interfere with daily life and work capacity. |
| 30% | Moderately severe residuals with regular episodes of diarrhea or dumping symptoms, some weight loss, and need for significant dietary modifications. |
| 20% | Moderate residuals with recurring symptoms after meals, need for small frequent meals, and periodic digestive disturbances. |
| 10% | Mild residuals with occasional post-meal symptoms, minor dietary adjustments, and symptoms that are generally manageable. |
Evidence Needed
- Surgical records documenting the vagotomy procedure
- Post-operative records showing the development of residual symptoms
- Gastric emptying study results if dumping syndrome is present
- Documentation of ongoing diarrhea frequency and severity
- Weight records showing any loss or difficulty maintaining weight
- Records of dietary modifications and any nutritional supplements needed
C&P Exam Tips
- Describe exactly what happens after you eat — timing, symptoms, and how long they last
- Report how many meals per day you eat and how large they can be
- Describe the frequency and urgency of diarrhea episodes
- Bring weight records showing any changes since the surgery
- List all foods you must avoid and explain what happens if you eat them
- Explain how meal-related symptoms limit your ability to work and socialize
How to File
File under DC 7348 for residuals of vagotomy with pyloroplasty or gastroenterostomy. Include surgical records, post-operative treatment notes, and documentation of ongoing residual symptoms. The original ulcer condition that required the surgery should also be service-connected if it is not already.
Common Mistakes
Not connecting the vagotomy to the original service-connected ulcer Not getting a gastric emptying study Accepting a rating that only covers the ulcer
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a vagotomy?
A vagotomy involves surgically cutting branches of the vagus nerve that stimulate acid production in the stomach. It was a common treatment for severe peptic ulcers before effective acid-suppressing medications became available. The surgery often included a pyloroplasty (widening the stomach outlet) or gastroenterostomy (creating a new connection between the stomach and intestine).
Are vagotomies still performed today?
Rarely. Modern acid-suppressing medications have largely replaced vagotomy for ulcer treatment. However, many veterans had the surgery decades ago when it was the standard of care, and they continue to live with its side effects. The VA rates based on your current symptoms regardless of when the surgery was performed.