Hysterectomy (Complete — Uterus and Both Ovaries) — VA Rating (DC 7617)
Diagnostic Code 7617 · 38 CFR §4.116
What Is It?
DC 7617 covers the complete removal of the uterus and both ovaries. This is the most extensive gynecological surgery and results in immediate surgical menopause because both sources of ovarian hormones are removed. The VA provides a 100 percent rating for three months following the surgery to account for recovery, then assigns a permanent 50 percent rating. This differs from DC 7618, which covers removal of the uterus alone (without both ovaries). Veterans may require this procedure for endometriosis, cancer, fibroids, chronic pelvic pain, or heavy bleeding that does not respond to other treatments.
Rating Criteria
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 100% | Assigned for three months immediately following the complete removal of the uterus and both ovaries. This temporary rating covers the surgical recovery period. |
| 50% | Permanent rating assigned after the three-month convalescence period. This reflects the lasting impact of complete surgical menopause including hormonal changes, hot flashes, bone density concerns, and other long-term effects of losing both ovaries. |
Evidence Needed
Surgical records confirming the hysterectomy and specifying that both ovaries were removed are the primary evidence. The operative report should clearly state that a bilateral oophorectomy was performed along with the hysterectomy. If the procedure was performed to treat a service-connected condition (endometriosis, fibroids), include the records establishing that connection. Post-surgical treatment records showing ongoing hormone replacement therapy, management of menopausal symptoms, or complications from surgery support the claim. If the surgery was performed at a VA facility, those records should be readily available.
C&P Exam Tips
The exam is relatively straightforward since the surgical record establishes the key facts. The examiner needs to confirm what was removed and assess any ongoing residual effects. If you are experiencing menopausal symptoms (hot flashes, mood changes, sleep disruption, vaginal dryness, bone density concerns), describe them thoroughly. If you take hormone replacement therapy, describe its effectiveness and any side effects. If the surgery caused complications (adhesions, pelvic floor dysfunction, urinary incontinence), make sure those are documented as they may warrant separate ratings.
How to File
File on VA Form 21-526EZ. If the hysterectomy treated a service-connected condition, reference that condition and include the surgical records. If the hysterectomy itself occurred during service, your service treatment records are the foundation. Submit the operative report, post-surgical treatment records, and documentation of any ongoing symptoms. Consider filing secondary claims for conditions caused by the hysterectomy — depression, osteoporosis from hormone loss, or urinary incontinence from surgery. Also review eligibility for special monthly compensation for loss of a creative organ.
Common Mistakes
The most common mistake is not claiming the hysterectomy separately from the underlying condition that necessitated it. For example, if you are rated for endometriosis and later have a hysterectomy to treat it, the hysterectomy itself should be rated under DC 7617, which provides a 50 percent permanent rating. Another mistake is not claiming secondary conditions from the surgery — surgical menopause can cause depression, osteoporosis, cardiovascular changes, and other conditions that are each potentially ratable. Finally, make sure the operative report clearly documents that both ovaries were removed, as this is what distinguishes DC 7617 (50 percent) from DC 7618 (30 percent).
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I automatically get 100% after a hysterectomy with bilateral oophorectomy?
Yes, but temporarily. The VA assigns a 100 percent rating for three months following the surgery. After that, your permanent rating is 50 percent because both ovaries were removed, causing complete surgical menopause. This is higher than the 30 percent rating under DC 7618, which applies when the uterus is removed but ovaries are preserved.
Can I claim depression secondary to this surgery?
Yes. Surgical menopause caused by removal of both ovaries can cause significant mood changes, including depression. If you develop depression after a service-connected hysterectomy, you can claim it as a secondary condition with a mental health nexus opinion.
What if I had my hysterectomy years ago — can I still file?
Yes. There is no time limit for filing a VA disability claim. If your hysterectomy was related to a service-connected condition or was performed during service, you can file at any time. The effective date will typically be the date you file or the date of your Intent to File.