Cerebral infarction due to embolism of unspecified cerebral artery
ICD-10 I63.40 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of cerebral infarction due to embolism of unspecified cerebral artery.
Cerebral infarction due to embolism of an unspecified cerebral artery occurs when a blood clot or other debris travels through the bloodstream and lodges in one of the arteries supplying blood to the brain, leading to a blockage. This interruption in blood flow can cause brain tissue to become ischemic, resulting in cell death and neurological deficits. Clinically, patients may present with sudden onset of symptoms such as weakness, numbness, difficulty speaking, or loss of coordination, depending on the area of the brain affected. The anatomy involved includes the cerebral arteries, which branch from the internal carotid and vertebral arteries. Disease progression can vary; some patients may experience transient ischemic attacks (TIAs) before a full-blown stroke, while others may have a sudden and severe onset. Diagnostic considerations include neuroimaging (CT or MRI) to confirm the presence of an infarct and to rule out hemorrhagic stroke. Additional tests may include echocardiography or vascular imaging to identify the source of the embolism.
Standard ICD-10-CM documentation requirements apply
Various clinical presentations within this specialty area
Follow specialty-specific billing guidelines
Standard ICD-10-CM documentation requirements apply
Various clinical presentations within this specialty area
Follow specialty-specific billing guidelines
I63.40 covers cerebral infarctions specifically due to embolism from an unspecified source. This includes cases where the embolism may originate from the heart or other vascular structures but is not clearly identified.
I63.40 should be used when the cerebral infarction is confirmed to be due to embolism and the specific artery involved is not documented. If the artery is specified or if the infarction is due to thrombosis, other codes should be considered.
Documentation should include clinical findings of stroke symptoms, results from neuroimaging that confirm cerebral infarction, and any relevant history that may indicate embolic sources, such as atrial fibrillation.
