ICD-10 Code I63.119 – Cerebral infarction due to embolism of unspecified vertebral artery (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code I63.119 – Cerebral infarction due to embolism of unspecified vertebral artery
What it is
This code identifies an ischemic stroke caused by an embolus blocking a vertebral artery, but the side is not documented. It applies when the infarction is in the brain and the vertebral artery is the source vessel.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Common stroke findings may include sudden neurologic deficits such as dizziness, imbalance, weakness, speech changes, or visual disturbance, depending on the affected brain region.
When to use this code
Use I63.119 when the record documents cerebral infarction due to embolism of a vertebral artery and does not specify right or left. It is appropriate for acute ischemic stroke cases with imaging, provider assessment, or discharge diagnosis supporting embolic origin. Check documentation if the artery side is later clarified.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for hemorrhagic stroke, transient ischemic attack, or infarction from non-embolic causes. If the vertebral artery side is specified, use the more precise code instead.
Coding tip
Look for the provider’s final stroke diagnosis and laterality; if the side is missing, I63.119 is the unspecified vertebral artery option.