VA Disability Rating for Laryngectomy, total (DC 6518)

Body system: Respiratory SystemRegulation: 38 CFR § 4.97DBQ: DBQ ENT Sinusitis, Rhinitis and Other Conditions of the Nose, Throat, Larynx and Pharynx

A total laryngectomy means the entire voice box (larynx) has been surgically removed, usually because of cancer or severe injury. The VA rates total laryngectomy at 100% under this code, and the rating schedule flags it for review for special monthly compensation. If only part of the larynx was removed (a partial laryngectomy), the lasting effects are rated instead as chronic laryngitis (DC 6516), loss of voice (DC 6519), or narrowing of the larynx (DC 6520).

Rating levels

  • 100% — You receive this rating if you have had your entire voice box (larynx) surgically removed. This operation, called a total laryngectomy, is usually done to treat throat cancer and results in permanent loss of your natural voice and changes to how you breathe and swallow.

Disclaimer: This tool is for informational purposes only and is not legal or medical advice. Always consult with your VSO representative or a qualified veterans benefits attorney for guidance on your specific claim.

Septum, nasal, deviation of (DC 6502)
The plain-English rating criteria and Board decision data for DC 6502.
Nose, loss of part of, or scars (DC 6504)
The plain-English rating criteria and Board decision data for DC 6504.
Sinusitis, pansinusitis, chronic (DC 6510)
The plain-English rating criteria and Board decision data for DC 6510.
Sinusitis, ethmoid, chronic (DC 6511)
The plain-English rating criteria and Board decision data for DC 6511.
Sinusitis, frontal, chronic (DC 6512)
The plain-English rating criteria and Board decision data for DC 6512.