Evidence Checklist: Peripheral Vascular Disease

Ankle/brachial index (ABI) testing at rest and post-exerciseCritical

ABI results quantify the severity of peripheral arterial disease. Resting ABI below 0.9 indicates disease; post-exercise ABI drop confirms hemodynamic significance.

Vascular specialist evaluation documenting claudication and trophic changesCritical

A vascular surgeon or specialist evaluation documenting claudication distance, skin changes (hair loss, thickened nails, trophic ulcers), and pulses in the affected extremities.

Nexus opinion linking PVD to service ("at least as likely as not")Critical

A medical opinion connecting PVD to service-connected diabetes, hypertension, smoking-related causes, or other in-service factors. Agent Orange veterans may have a presumptive basis.

Arterial duplex ultrasound or CT angiography

Imaging documenting arterial stenosis location and severity, which guides treatment planning and documents objective disease extent.

Wound care records for ischemic ulcers (if applicable)

Records documenting non-healing ischemic ulcers, debridement, revascularization procedures, or amputation — all support the highest rating levels.

Claudication distance log

A personal or medical log documenting how far you can walk before leg pain forces you to stop. Claudication at less than 100 yards supports higher ratings.

Buddy statement from spouse, family, or fellow service member

A written statement from someone who can describe observable symptoms and how your condition affects daily life.

Completed DBQ Artery and Vein ConditionsCritical

Standardized form capturing ABI results, claudication assessment, trophic changes, and functional limitations from peripheral vascular disease.

Service treatment records (STRs)Critical

Military medical records showing in-service treatment, complaints, or injuries related to this condition.