Amputation of the upper arm above where the deltoid muscle attaches.
The most direct evidence for a rating under this code is documentation confirming that an amputation of the upper arm occurred above the insertion of the deltoid. Operative reports, surgical records, and imaging such as X-rays can establish the level of the amputation. A VA or private medical examination that identifies the exact anatomical site of the residual limb helps confirm whether the loss falls above that landmark.
Records also showing which arm was amputated are important, since major versus minor status determines the applicable percentage. Statements from you or your treating providers identifying your dominant hand, or records from before the injury noting hand dominance, can support that determination. If the amputation prevents the use of a prosthesis, that finding may also be relevant to separate provisions involving multiple limb losses. Medical records, prosthetic clinic notes, and statements describing how the loss affects your ability to work and carry out daily tasks can all help document the full picture of your disability.
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.
