The loss of approximately one-half of the lower jaw.

Trauma, such as gunshot wound's, infections and removal of oral tumors may lead to loss of the mandible.

Signs and symptoms of this condition may include: facial deformities, restrictions in opening the mouth, difficulty swallowing and chewing, malocclusion, loss of weight, and nutritional deficiencies. There may be limited or no temporomandibular articulation (see diagnostic code 9905 - Temporomandibular disorder (TMD)).

Visual inspection, physical examination, x-rays, and computed tomography (CT) scan are tests that may be used.

Reconstructive surgery and dental prosthetics (artificial teeth) to correct deformities, re-establishment of eating processes, and maintenance of nutritional status are treatment choices. Counseling may be needed for body image disturbance.

Alternative methods of eating, inadequate nutritional status, facial deformities, and psychological disturbance are potential long-term effects of the disorder.

• None.

• For VA compensation purposes, diagnostic imaging studies include, but are not limited to, conventional radiography (X-ray), computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), positron emission tomography (PET), radionuclide bone scanning, or ultrasonography.

• Separately evaluate loss of vocal articulation, loss of smell, loss of taste, neurological impairment, respiratory dysfunction, and other impairments under the appropriate diagnostic code and combine under 38 CFR 4.25 for each separately rated condition.