Malignant tumor of the colon (large intestine)
Operative reports and pathology records are central to this rating. They show whether you had a partial or total colectomy, whether a permanent colostomy or ileostomy was created, whether the ileocecal valve was removed, and whether reanastomosis was performed. These records directly determine which rating level applies.
For the 20% level, medical records documenting recurrent diarrhea — specifically more than three episodes per day — help establish that criterion. Gastroenterology notes, primary care visit records, and bowel-function logs or diaries you keep can all reflect the frequency of diarrhea.
For the 100% level, records showing an ileostomy with high-output syndrome are needed, along with hospital or urgent-care records confirming at least three hospitalizations or treatment visits for intravenous hydration within the past 12 months. Lab results showing electrolyte abnormalities can support the picture of dehydration.
At any level, statements from you or people who live with you describing how symptoms — such as frequent bowel urgency, output management, or dehydration episodes — affect your work, daily activities, and routine can help VA understand the full impact of your condition.
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.
