Cerebral infrc due to unsp occls or stenosis of r verteb art

This code signifies a stroke resulting from a blockage or narrowing in the right vertebral artery, where the specific nature of the obstruction (e.g., thrombus, embolus) is not documented. It indicates a focal neurological deficit caused by ischemia in the brain tissue supplied by this artery.

Apply this code when documentation clearly states a cerebral infarction due to an occlusion or stenosis of the right vertebral artery, but the physician has not specified the type of occlusion (e.g., thrombotic, embolic). This code is appropriate when the laterality of the affected vertebral artery is explicitly right-sided.

• Ensure documentation specifies "right vertebral artery" and "unspecified occlusion or stenosis."
• Do not use if the type of occlusion (e.g., thrombosis, embolism) is identified; instead, use a more specific code from the I63.0-I63.1 series.
• Sequence this code as the primary diagnosis when it is the reason for the encounter.