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Cholecystectomy (gallbladder removal), complications of (such as strictures and biliary leaks)
Diagnostic code 7318 · Digestive system · 38 CFR 4.114
Rating criteria: the exact regulation text
Quoted from 38 CFR 4.114. The "Rating" column is the percentage VA assigns for that level.
| Criteria | Rating |
|---|---|
| 7318 Cholecystectomy (gallbladder removal), complications of (such as strictures and biliary leaks): | |
| With recurrent abdominal pain (post-prandial or nocturnal); and chronic diarrhea characterized by three or more watery bowel movements per day | 30 |
| With intermittent abdominal pain; and diarrhea characterized by one to two watery bowel movements per day | 10 |
| Asymptomatic | 0 |
Where else the regulation mentions this code
These lines appear under other codes or headings in the schedule and name this code.
Rate as adhesions of the peritoneum due to surgery, trauma, disease, or infection (DC 7301); or chronic gallbladder and biliary tract disease (DC 7314), or cholecystectomy (gallbladder removal), complications of (such as strictures and biliary leaks) (DC 7318), depending on the predominant disability.
Notes for the whole table
Do not combine ratings under diagnostic codes 7301 through 7329 inclusive, 7331, 7342, 7345 through 7350 inclusive, 7352, and 7355 through 7357 inclusive, with each other. Instead, when more than one rating is warranted under those diagnostic codes, assign a single evaluation under the diagnostic code that reflects the predominant disability picture, and elevate it to the next higher evaluation if warranted by the severity of the overall disability.
Related codes in the regulation
- 7317 Gallbladder, injury ofMentioned together
The VA exam form for this condition
VA examiners record their findings on a Disability Benefits Questionnaire (DBQ). Reading it shows you what the exam will measure and ask.
Rules that apply to this body system
Where this comes from
38 CFR 4.114, VA's Schedule for Rating Disabilities, from the official eCFR.
Regulation text current as of October 16, 2026.
Change history for this code (38 CFR Part 4, Appendix A): Title, evaluation, and criterion May 19, 2024.
Read it on eCFR.govInformation, not advice
This page shows the text of VA's rating regulation for information. It is not a rating estimate, and it is not legal or medical advice. VA decides every rating on the evidence in your file.
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