Toxic embedded fragments from injuries in military service, possible health-related problems and VA benefits
An embedded fragment is a piece of metal or other material, such as plastic, that stays in the body after an injury. Another common term used for this material is shrapnel. The word “toxic” is used to describe the fragments because they may be made of harmful materials.
Some fragments may contain depleted uranium.
Learn about:
How Veterans May Have Toxic Embedded Fragments
Modern warfare has caused more Veterans to have shrapnel or retained fragment wounds from blast injuries.
Some Operation Enduring Freedom, Operation Iraqi Freedom, and Operation New Dawn Veterans injured by an improvised explosive device (IED) or other blast may have fragments left in their bodies.
Health Problems Associated with Toxic Embedded Fragments
Although health problems caused by toxic embedded fragments are not fully understood, fragments can cause harm in two ways:
- Injury at the site of the fragment
- Chemicals from the fragment that travel through the bloodstream and affect other parts of the body
If you are concerned about health problems associated with toxic embedded fragments, contact the Environmental Health Coordinator or Patient Care Advocate at your nearest VA health care facility.
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VA Benefits
Veterans who have toxic embedded fragments from injuries in military service may be eligible for:
- Health care benefits, including a Gulf War Registry health examination for Veterans of Operations Desert Shield, Desert Storm, Iraqi Freedom, or New Dawn
- Clinical care at the Toxic Embedded Fragment Surveillance Center at the Baltimore VA Medical Center for Operation Enduring Freedom, Operation Iraqi Freedom, and Operation New Dawn Veterans with embedded fragments
- Disability compensation benefits for disabilities that VA determines are associated with toxic embedded fragments from injuries during military service
- Other benefits, including home loans, vocational rehabilitation, and education
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