VA Diagnostic Code 5152Thumb, amputation of:
Rated from 20% to 40% under § 4.71a. Here is what the VA requires at each level.
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What each rating requires
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- 40%30% non-dominant
With metacarpal resection
- 30%20% non-dominant
At metacarpophalangeal joint or through proximal phalanx
- 20%20% non-dominant
At distal joint or through distal phalanx
Notes on this code
These notes are part of the regulation. They change how the levels above are applied.
- Note: The single finger amputation ratings are the only applicable ratings for amputations of whole or part of single fingers.
Thumb Amputation (VA Diagnostic Code 5152)
Musculoskeletal System · 38 CFR § 4.71a
Understanding This Rating
Diagnostic Code 5152 covers the amputation of the thumb, whether that involves the whole thumb or a part of it. Because the thumb plays a central role in hand function, the VA rates it based on how much of the thumb is affected and which hand is involved.
An important detail: the VA distinguishes between your dominant (major) and non-dominant (minor) extremity. The same level of amputation may carry a different rating depending on whether it affects your dominant or non-dominant hand.
Available Rating Levels
| Rating (Dominant Hand) | Rating (Non-Dominant Hand) | What It Reflects |
|---|---|---|
| 40% | 30% | Amputation with metacarpal resection |
| 30% | 20% | Amputation at the metacarpophalangeal joint or through the proximal phalanx |
| 20% | 20% | Amputation at the distal joint or through the distal phalanx |
What the VA Looks For
When rating a thumb amputation, the VA focuses on:
- The level of the amputation — how much of the thumb has been removed, ranging from the distal (outer) joint up through the metacarpal (the bone connecting the thumb to the wrist).
- Whether a metacarpal resection is involved — amputation accompanied by metacarpal resection is rated at the highest level for this code.
- Which hand is affected — the dominant (major) extremity may be rated higher than the non-dominant (minor) extremity for the same level of amputation.
Important Note
Per VA guidance, the single finger amputation ratings are the only applicable ratings for amputations of whole or part of single fingers.
This information is drawn directly from the VA rating schedule under 38 CFR § 4.71a. It is provided for general educational purposes and does not guarantee any particular rating or outcome.
These criteria are a rendering of § 4.71a, diagnostic code 5152. The official version is the one that governs your rating.
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