Amputation of the thumb at any level.
Medical records documenting the amputation are central to your claim. The records should clearly show the anatomical level of the amputation — specifically whether it involved metacarpal resection, reached the metacarpophalangeal joint or proximal phalanx, or was limited to the distal joint or distal phalanx. Operative reports, pathology notes, and imaging such as X-rays can establish that level precisely.
Records that identify which hand is your dominant hand help VA determine whether the Major or Minor rating applies. A note from any treating provider stating your handedness supports this.
If other digits of the same hand are also affected by amputation, ankylosis, or limited motion, records documenting those conditions matter as well, because VA considers the combined picture when rating multiple affected digits on one hand. Statements from you or people who know you describing how the loss of your thumb affects work tasks, grip, and daily activities can help show the full functional impact at the level documented in your medical records.
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.
