Ventricular Arrhythmia

DC 7011Cardiovascular38 CFR 4.104, DC 7011

Abnormal heart rhythms originating in the lower chambers (ventricles) of the heart, which can be life-threatening. The VA rates based on the frequency of episodes and whether an implantable defibrillator (ICD) is needed.

Rating Levels

For an indefinite period from the date of the last episode of sustained ventricular arrhythmia or the date of ICD implant. Evaluated under cardiac condition criteria based on METs and symptoms if appropriate.

What the VA looks for

Sustained ventricular arrhythmia requiring hospitalization
Implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD/AICD) in place
Hospital admission records for sustained ventricular arrhythmia
Ventricular aneurysmectomy surgical records
Workload of 3 METs or less with symptoms if applicable

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not documenting each episode with ECG or Holter monitor evidence — the VA requires objective documentation of arrhythmia episodes, not just self-reported symptoms.
⚠Not filing for the temporary 100% rating after ICD implantation — an AICD/ICD in place warrants an indefinite 100% rating until re-evaluation.
⚠Not reporting all symptoms associated with episodes such as syncope, near-syncope, and palpitations — these details matter for the functional impact assessment.
⚠Not filing for secondary conditions like anxiety disorder related to living with a life-threatening arrhythmia — the psychological impact of ICD shocks and the fear of sudden cardiac death are separately ratable.

Related DBQ Forms

DBQ Heart Conditions

View evidence checklist →See secondary conditions →

Condition Rating Guides

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

Rating Levels

What the VA looks for

Sustained ventricular arrhythmia requiring hospitalization
Implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD/AICD) in place
Hospital admission records for sustained ventricular arrhythmia
Ventricular aneurysmectomy surgical records
Workload of 3 METs or less with symptoms if applicable

Common Pitfalls

⚠Not documenting each episode with ECG or Holter monitor evidence — the VA requires objective documentation of arrhythmia episodes, not just self-reported symptoms.

⚠Not filing for the temporary 100% rating after ICD implantation — an AICD/ICD in place warrants an indefinite 100% rating until re-evaluation.

⚠Not reporting all symptoms associated with episodes such as syncope, near-syncope, and palpitations — these details matter for the functional impact assessment.

⚠Not filing for secondary conditions like anxiety disorder related to living with a life-threatening arrhythmia — the psychological impact of ICD shocks and the fear of sudden cardiac death are separately ratable.