What you have to prove
Show short bowel syndrome due to surgical resection of more than one-half of the small intestine, with dependence on daily supplemental parenteral nutrition via a central venous catheter.
Medical evidence SSA expects
Operative records documenting resection, nutrition support records (TPN orders), metabolic labs, and GI specialist notes.
Common misconceptions
Oral supplementation alone doesn't qualify — the listing specifically requires central venous TPN. Many short bowel patients adapt over time and wean off TPN, making this listing time-limited for them.
Didn't meet the listing? You can still qualify via a Medical-Vocational
Allowance — SSA's determination that your residual functional capacity, combined with
your age, education, and work history, leaves no jobs you can do. See our
appeals guide for what to do after an initial denial.