Cereb infrc due to embolism of unsp middle cerebral artery

This diagnosis code signifies a stroke resulting from a blood clot originating elsewhere in the body (embolism) that has traveled to and blocked an unspecified segment of the middle cerebral artery, leading to brain tissue death. It indicates an acute ischemic event affecting the brain, specifically due to an embolic cause.

Apply this code when documentation clearly states a cerebral infarction (ischemic stroke) caused by an embolism, and the specific branch of the middle cerebral artery involved is not identified. Supporting documentation includes physician notes detailing the stroke etiology as embolic and imaging reports (e.g., MRI, CT) confirming infarction in the middle cerebral artery territory without further specification of the vessel segment.

• Ensure the documentation specifies "embolism" as the cause of the infarction, not "thrombosis" or "unspecified."
• Only use this code when the specific segment of the middle cerebral artery (e.g., M1, M2) is not documented. If specified, a more precise code should be used.
• Sequence this code as the principal diagnosis for an acute stroke admission, followed by any associated conditions or sequelae.