The term anatomical refers to anatomy or structure. The anatomical loss of both eyes implies that the eyeball structure has been lost, resulting in complete blindness from an eye injury. Blindness is loss of vision sufficient to prevent one from being self-supporting in an occupation, making the individual dependent on other resources or devices in order to live.

Eye injuries may be caused by domestic accidents; assaults; explosions; sports-related activities; burns; and motorcycle or motor vehicle accidents. Eye injuries may result in rupture of the eyeball or eyeballs.

Loss of both eyes signifies complete blindness (the inability to see) since the organs of sight are lost.

Tests for sight include: visual acuity, visual fields, ophthalmoscopy, slit lamp and external examination.

Methods of prevention and early treatment of some diseases may prevent the occurrence of blindness.

A self-care deficit and body image disturbance are likely outcomes of the condition and counseling related to loss of sight will be needed. Since activities of daily living (ADL), many jobs, and driving depend on sight, early referral to rehabilitation agencies for training and re-education is essential. Possible use of guide dogs, mobility training, auditory aids, and learning Braille may be considered.

• May be entitled to special monthly compensation where the Veteran has a single service-connected disability rated as 100% with additional service-connected disability or disabilities independently ratable at 60% or more, which are separate and distinct from the 100% service-connected disability and involves different anatomical segments or bodily systems. See  38 CFR 3.350(i)(1) – Special Monthly Compensation (SMC).

• Consider entitlement to specially adapted housing under 38 U.S.C. 2101(a)(2)(A)(i) if there is visual impairment to the degree specified in 38 CFR 3.809(b)(2).

• The veteran, spouse, surviving spouse or parent will be considered in need of regular aid and attendance if he or she is blind or so nearly blind as to have corrected visual acuity of 5/200 or less, in both eyes, or concentric contraction of the visual field to 5 degrees or less (38 CFR 3.351(c)(1)).

• Consider entitlement to automobile allowance and/or automobile adaptive equipment if there is visual impairment to the degree specified in 38 CFR 3.808(b)(3).

• Consider entitlement to ancillary benefits if Veteran meets eligibility criteria (38 CFR 3.155(d)(2)).

• Review for entitlement to special monthly compensation under 38 CFR 3.350.

• For the purposes of evaluating visual impairment due to the particular condition, refer to 38 CFR 4.75, 38 CFR 4.76, 38 CFR 4.77, 38 CFR 4.78,  and  38 CFR 4.79, diagnostic codes 6061-6091.