Musculoskeletal System§ 4.71aUpdated
Rating criteria

VA Diagnostic Code 5274Astragalectomy

A single 20% rating under § 4.71a. Here is what the VA requires for it.

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  1. 20%

    Astragalectomy

Astragalectomy (VA Diagnostic Code 5274)

Understanding This Rating

Body System: Musculoskeletal System Diagnostic Code: 5274 Regulation: 38 CFR § 4.71a

What This Condition Is

An astragalectomy is the surgical removal of the astragalus (also known as the talus), one of the bones that make up the ankle joint. Because this bone plays an important role in how the foot and ankle move and bear weight, its removal can affect mobility and function.

The VA evaluates this condition under Diagnostic Code 5274, which falls within the schedule of ratings for the musculoskeletal system.

Available Rating Level

Under this diagnostic code, there is a single rating level:

RatingCriteria
20%Astragalectomy

What the VA Looks For

When evaluating a claim under Diagnostic Code 5274, the VA looks for whether an astragalectomy has been performed. This diagnostic code assigns a 20% rating for the condition.


This information is provided for general educational purposes and reflects the rating criteria found in 38 CFR § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code 5274. It is not legal advice, and individual claim outcomes depend on your specific medical records and circumstances.

These criteria are a rendering of § 4.71a, diagnostic code 5274. The official version is the one that governs your rating.

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What next

How to claim this

Knowing the criteria is the first half. Getting your file to show them is the second.

  1. Find your level in the stack

    Read each rung against what your medical records already say. The level your records document today is the one the VA can support today.

  2. Name the gap

    Look at the rung above yours and write down exactly what it asks for that your file does not show yet — a diagnosis, a measurement, a prescribed brace, a doctor’s opinion linking it to service.

  3. Claim it by code

    File under diagnostic code 5274 and attach the evidence for the level you are asking for. Other Musculoskeletal System codes may cover your secondary conditions.

Find out which rating your evidence supports.

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