---
title: "DC 7333 - Rectum and anus, stricture of"
diagnostic_code: "7333"
body_system: "Digestive System"
cfr_section: "§ 4.114"
canonical: "https://veteranai.co/va-rating-schedule/digestive/7333-rectum-and-anus-stricture-of"
source: "https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-38/section-4.114"
updated: "2026-07-21T04:16:19.387170Z"
---

# DC 7333 - Rectum and anus, stricture of

Rated under § 4.114. Body system: Digestive System.

## Rating criteria

| Rating | Criteria |
| --- | --- |
| 100% | Inability to open the anus with inability to expel solid feces |
| 60% | Reduction of the lumen 50% or more, with pain and straining during defecation |
| 30% | Reduction of the lumen by less than 50%, with straining during defecation |
| 10% | Luminal narrowing with or without straining, managed by dietary intervention |

## Notes

- Note (1): Conditions rated under this code include dyssynergic defecation (levator ani) and anismus (functional constipation).
- Note (2): Evaluate an ostomy as Intestine, large, resection of (DC 7329).

# Stricture of the Rectum and Anus (VA Diagnostic Code 7333)

## Understanding This Condition

A stricture of the rectum and anus is a narrowing of the passage (the "lumen") through which stool travels. This narrowing can make bowel movements difficult, often requiring straining, and in more severe cases can significantly interfere with the ability to pass stool.

This condition is part of the **Digestive System** and is rated under **§ 4.114**, Diagnostic Code **7333**.

**Related conditions rated under this code include:**
- **Dyssynergic defecation** (levator ani)
- **Anismus** (functional constipation)

---

## How the VA Rates This Condition

The VA assigns a disability rating based on the severity of the narrowing and the symptoms it causes. The available rating levels are:

| Rating | What It Reflects |
|--------|------------------|
| **100%** | Inability to open the anus, with inability to expel solid feces |
| **60%** | Reduction of the lumen 50% or more, with pain and straining during defecation |
| **30%** | Reduction of the lumen by less than 50%, with straining during defecation |
| **10%** | Luminal narrowing, with or without straining, managed by dietary intervention |

---

## What the VA Looks For

When evaluating a stricture of the rectum and anus, the VA focuses on:

- **The degree of narrowing (lumen reduction):** Whether the passage is reduced by 50% or more, by less than 50%, or shows luminal narrowing without a defined percentage.
- **Symptoms during defecation:** The presence of straining, pain, or an inability to expel solid feces.
- **Management of the condition:** For example, whether the narrowing is managed through dietary intervention.
- **The most severe cases:** An inability to open the anus paired with an inability to expel solid feces.

---

## Additional Note

If the condition involves an **ostomy**, the VA evaluates it under **Intestine, large, resection of (Diagnostic Code 7329)** rather than under this code.

Source: https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-38/section-4.114