Loss of the coronoid process (located at the upper end of the mandible where the temporalis muscle attaches to assist closing the jaw) results in minimal functional impairment. Loss of one or both sides of the coronoid process makes it difficult to open and close your mouth, chew food or move the jaw side to side.

Loss of the coronoid process may result from trauma, infection, pathology such as cysts or tumors, or deliberate surgical removal.

There may be limited jaw opening after coronoid loss related to injury and scarring of adjacent tissues.

Clinical examination and facial x-rays, or computed tomography (CT) scan give evidence of the deformity.

Loss of the coronoid process normally requires no treatment because of the lack of functional or esthetic impairment or both.

Residual effects of scarring or functional impairment are most likely to result from associated conditions such as trauma or surgery involving adjacent structures rather than the coronoid process itself.

• 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.