Neonatal cerebral infarction, bilateral

This code signifies brain tissue death in a newborn due to impaired blood flow, affecting both cerebral hemispheres. It represents an ischemic stroke occurring in the neonatal period, resulting in permanent neurological damage.

Apply this code when documentation clearly indicates an infarction (ischemic stroke) in the brain of a neonate, and imaging studies (e.g., MRI, CT) confirm involvement of both sides of the cerebrum. This diagnosis is typically made based on clinical signs of neurological deficit and confirmed by neuroimaging.

• Ensure documentation specifies "bilateral" involvement; otherwise, a unilateral code may be more appropriate.
• Distinguish from other neonatal cerebral injuries like hemorrhage (P52.-) or anoxic brain damage (P91.6-).
• Sequence this code as a principal diagnosis when it is the primary reason for admission or encounter, or as a secondary diagnosis if it's a co-morbidity.