---
title: "DC 6518 - Laryngectomy, total."
diagnostic_code: "6518"
body_system: "Respiratory System"
cfr_section: "§ 4.97"
canonical: "https://veteranai.co/va-rating-schedule/respiratory/6518-laryngectomy-total"
source: "https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-38/section-4.97"
updated: "2026-07-21T20:33:37.456295Z"
---

# DC 6518 - Laryngectomy, total.

Rated under § 4.97. Body system: Respiratory System.

Rate the residuals of partial laryngectomy as laryngitis (DC 6516), aphonia (DC 6519), or stenosis of larynx (DC 6520).

## Rating criteria

| Rating | Criteria |
| --- | --- |
| 100% | Laryngectomy, total. |

# Total Laryngectomy (VA Diagnostic Code 6518)

## Understanding This Condition

A **total laryngectomy** is the complete surgical removal of the larynx (voice box). Because this is a significant change to the respiratory system, the VA addresses it under **Diagnostic Code 6518**, found in **38 CFR § 4.97**, which covers conditions of the Respiratory System.

## Available Rating Level

Under Diagnostic Code 6518, there is a single rating level:

| Rating | Criteria |
|--------|----------|
| **100%** | Total laryngectomy |

A total laryngectomy is assigned a **100% disability rating**.

## What the VA Looks For

- **Total laryngectomy** is rated at **100%** under Diagnostic Code 6518.
- The **residuals of a *partial* laryngectomy** are rated differently. Rather than using this code, the VA evaluates those residuals as one of the following, depending on how the condition presents:
  - **Laryngitis** — Diagnostic Code 6516
  - **Aphonia** (loss of voice) — Diagnostic Code 6519
  - **Stenosis of the larynx** (narrowing) — Diagnostic Code 6520

In short, the distinction the VA makes is between a **total** laryngectomy (rated at 100% under DC 6518) and a **partial** laryngectomy (rated according to its specific residuals under the codes listed above).

Source: https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-38/section-4.97