Partial Hip Replacement

A partial hip replacement (hemiarthroplasty) will significantly impact your disability compensation, as it qualifies for the same minimum rating as a total hip replacement under 38 CFR § 4.71a, Diagnostic Code (DC) 5054 or 5055. This code mandates a **100% disability rating for one year following the prosthetic implantation surgery**, after which the VA must schedule a mandatory re-examination to assign a permanent rating. Your existing 20% bilateral rating for the other hip will remain separate and will combine with any new rating, not replace it. The permanent rating will be based on residual symptoms, most commonly painful motion or limited range of motion (ROM) under DC 5251 (hip, ankylosis), DC 5252 (hip, limitation of extension), or DC 5253 (hip, limitation of flexion), with ratings typically at 10%, 20%, or 30%. However, if you have severe chronic pain or functional loss not captured by ROM measurements, you can argue for a higher rating under *DeLuca v. Brown* (consideration of functional loss during flare-ups) and the principles of 38 CFR § 4.40 and § 4.45. Your actionable next steps are to: 1) Ensure your surgery and all related treatment records are submitted to the VA; 2) File for an increased evaluation if you haven't already; 3) Attend the post-operative re-examination and clearly describe your daily pain, instability, and functional limitations; and 4) Consider submitting a lay statement detailing your residual disability. **Disclaimer: This is educational information for claims preparation, not legal or medical advice; for personalized guidance, consult an accredited VA attorney or claims agent.**