Amputation of the index and middle fingers on one hand.
To support a rating under this code, your records should document the nature of the loss of both the index and long fingers on the affected hand. Medical records showing surgical reports, amputation notes, or pathology findings help establish that both fingers are involved. VA examination findings that confirm the extent of loss — whether anatomical amputation or functional loss equivalent to amputation — are central to the rating decision.
Records should also clearly identify which hand is your major hand and which is your minor hand, since that distinction separates the 40% rating from the 30% rating. A statement from you or a treating provider confirming your dominant hand is useful. If the loss results from ankylosis or limited motion rather than amputation, examination findings should document joint positions, the gap between fingertips and the proximal transverse crease of the palm, and whether any ankylosis is in a favorable or unfavorable position. Statements describing how the loss affects your work tasks and daily activities can help VA understand the functional impact.
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.
