Brain, vessels, embolism of (DC 8007)

Body system: Neurological Conditions and Convulsive DisordersRegulation: 38 CFR § 4.124a

DC 8007 covers brain vessel embolism, a stroke caused when a clot or other material lodges in a brain artery and blocks blood flow. Per 38 CFR § 4.124a, the rating ladder under DCs 8007 through 8009 is: 100% for 6 months following the vascular event (active recovery), then 10% minimum thereafter rated on residuals. After the 6-month window, the rating shifts to whichever residual neurological deficits (motor, sensory, cognitive, speech, cranial-nerve, or peripheral-nerve impairment) are present, rated under their own diagnostic codes with the 10% minimum from DC 8007 preserved as a floor.

Rating levels

100% — For the first 6 months following the vascular event (brain, vessels, embolism of), the rating is 100%. This 6-month window covers acute recovery: hospitalization, post-stroke rehab, and the period during which residuals have not yet stabilized. The 100% runs from the date of the event, not from the date of claim.
10% — After the 6-month 100% window ends, the rating shifts to whatever residual neurological deficits remain (motor weakness or hemiplegia, sensory loss, cognitive impairment, aphasia or other speech deficit, cranial-nerve damage, peripheral-nerve damage), rated under their own diagnostic codes per 38 CFR § 4.124a. The 10% from this code is a minimum rating: even if the residuals would otherwise rate at 0%, the floor stays at 10% for life. If residuals rate higher than 10% on their own, the higher rating applies.

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.