Cerebral infarction due to thrombosis of left carotid artery

This code signifies an ischemic stroke resulting from a blood clot forming within the left carotid artery, leading to a lack of blood flow to a portion of the brain. This specific type of cerebral infarction is caused by a thrombotic event rather than an embolic one, impacting the left side of the brain.

Apply this code when documentation clearly states a cerebral infarction due to thrombosis of the left carotid artery. This is appropriate for acute or subacute ischemic strokes where the etiology is confirmed as a thrombotic occlusion of the left carotid. Supporting documentation should include imaging reports (e.g., MRI, CT angiography) confirming the infarction and the thrombotic nature of the left carotid occlusion.

• Differentiate from embolic strokes; this code is specific to thrombosis.
• Ensure laterality is explicitly documented as "left carotid artery."
• Do not use for transient ischemic attacks (TIAs) or completed strokes of unspecified etiology.