---
title: "DC 5165 - At a lower level, permitting prosthesis"
diagnostic_code: "5165"
body_system: "Musculoskeletal System"
cfr_section: "§ 4.71a"
canonical: "https://veteranai.co/va-rating-schedule/musculoskeletal/5165-at-a-lower-level-permitting-prosthesis"
source: "https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-38/section-4.71a"
updated: "2026-07-21T19:40:06.052818Z"
---

# DC 5165 - At a lower level, permitting prosthesis

Rated under § 4.71a. Body system: Musculoskeletal System.

## Rating criteria

| Rating | Criteria |
| --- | --- |
| 40% | At a lower level, permitting prosthesis |

## Notes

- 2 Also entitled to special monthly compensation.

# VA Disability Rating: Amputation of the Leg (Diagnostic Code 5165)

## Understanding This Rating

Diagnostic Code **5165** falls under the **Musculoskeletal System** and is governed by **38 CFR § 4.71a**. It addresses an amputation of the leg **"at a lower level, permitting prosthesis."** In plain terms, this rating applies when the leg has been amputated at a level low enough that the residual limb can support and accommodate a prosthetic device.

## Available Rating Level

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

| Rating | Criteria |
|--------|----------|
| **40%** | At a lower level, permitting prosthesis |

## What the VA Looks For

When evaluating a claim under Diagnostic Code 5165, the VA considers whether the amputation is **at a lower level that permits the use of a prosthesis**. Meeting this description corresponds to the **40%** rating shown above.

## Additional Note

- Veterans rated under this code may **also be entitled to special monthly compensation (SMC)**. Special monthly compensation is an additional benefit that may apply in certain circumstances involving amputation and related conditions.

---

*This information is drawn directly from the VA rating schedule under 38 CFR § 4.71a. Individual ratings are determined by the VA based on the specific facts of each case.*

Source: https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-38/section-4.71a