Colostomy / Ileostomy

DC 7329Digestive38 CFR 4.114, DC 7329

A surgical opening in the abdomen where part of the intestine is brought to the surface to allow waste to leave the body into an external bag. The VA rates based on how well the colostomy or ileostomy is controlled.

Rating Levels

Your colostomy produces copious, frequent, or involuntary fecal discharge that is not controlled.

What the VA looks for

Copious or frequent fecal discharge documented
Involuntary discharge not controlled by appliance
Frequent appliance failures or bag changes
Significant impact on employment and daily functioning
Ongoing surgical or ostomy clinic treatment records

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not documenting the frequency of bag changes and any leakage problems.
⚠Not reporting skin irritation, infection, or breakdown around the stoma site.
⚠Not filing separately for the underlying condition that required the colostomy.
⚠Not claiming secondary conditions like depression or social anxiety related to living with an ostomy.

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Intestinal Conditions (Other Than Surgical or Infectious)

View evidence checklist →See secondary conditions →

Condition Rating Guides

Understand what the VA looks for at each rating level — loading conditions…