ICD-10 Code I60.51 – Nontraumatic subarachnoid hemorrhage from right vertebral artery (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code I60.51 – Nontraumatic subarachnoid hemorrhage from right vertebral artery
What it is
This code identifies a nontraumatic subarachnoid hemorrhage caused by bleeding from the right vertebral artery. Use it when the record clearly links the hemorrhage to that specific artery and no trauma is documented.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include sudden severe headache, neck pain, nausea, vomiting, photophobia, or altered mental status. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation, imaging, and provider assessment for the source of bleeding.
When to use this code
Assign this code when the provider documents a spontaneous subarachnoid hemorrhage and specifies the right vertebral artery as the bleeding source. It may be supported by CT, angiography, or operative notes identifying the vessel. If the laterality or artery is not stated, check documentation before coding.
Do not use for
Do not use it for traumatic subarachnoid hemorrhage or for hemorrhage from another intracranial vessel. If the chart only says subarachnoid hemorrhage without a right vertebral artery source, this code is not supported.
Coding tip
Code the exact artery and laterality only when the provider documents both; otherwise, query or code to the most specific confirmed site.