A bulge in the wall of the aorta, the body's main artery, that may rupture.
For a pre-surgical 100% rating, medical records documenting the aneurysm's size are central. Imaging such as CT scans, MRI, or ultrasound reports that measure the aneurysm at five centimeters or larger in diameter directly address one criterion. Records showing symptoms that prevent exertion, or a physician's written recommendation for surgical correction, satisfy the other criteria.
For post-surgical ratings under the General Rating Formula, exercise stress test results that report the MET level at which heart failure symptoms appear are the key evidence. Echocardiogram, multigated acquisition scan, or MRI findings showing cardiac hypertrophy or dilatation support a 30% rating even without a MET finding. Prescription records showing continuous medication is required for control support a 10% rating. If exercise testing cannot be done for medical reasons, a medical examiner's written estimate of the MET level — supported by specific activity examples such as slow stair climbing — can be used instead. Statements from you or those who know you describing how symptoms affect physical activity and daily tasks can help show the level of exertion that triggers those symptoms.
Conditions that are often caused or made worse by this one. If you have any of these, they may be claimable as secondary service connection.
