Dissection of vertebral artery

This code signifies a tear in the inner lining of the vertebral artery, allowing blood to flow between the layers of the vessel wall. This dissection can lead to narrowing or occlusion of the artery, potentially causing stroke or other neurological deficits due to compromised blood flow to the brain.

Apply this code when documentation explicitly states a dissection of the vertebral artery. This typically occurs following trauma (e.g., whiplash, chiropractic manipulation) or spontaneously. Supporting documentation includes imaging reports (e.g., CTA, MRA, angiography) confirming the dissection.

• Differentiate from vertebral artery aneurysm (I72.6), which is an abnormal ballooning, not a tear.
• Ensure the documentation specifies "dissection" of the vertebral artery, not just a general cerebrovascular event.
• Consider sequencing this code as a primary diagnosis if it is the reason for the encounter, or as a secondary diagnosis if it is a co-morbidity impacting treatment.