ICD-10 Code I63.132 – Cerebral infarction due to embolism of left carotid artery (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code I63.132 – Cerebral infarction due to embolism of left carotid artery
What it is
This code identifies an ischemic stroke caused by an embolus blocking the left carotid artery and leading to brain tissue infarction. Use it when documentation clearly links the cerebral infarction to embolism in the left carotid artery.
Clinical signs
Findings usually reflect an acute focal neurologic deficit, such as unilateral weakness, speech disturbance, facial droop, or visual field loss. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use I63.132 when the provider documents cerebral infarction due to embolism of the left carotid artery, including confirmed stroke or infarct attributed to that vessel. Code it from the final diagnosis, discharge summary, or imaging-supported assessment when the cause and side are specified.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for hemorrhagic stroke, transient ischemic attack, or infarction without documented carotid embolic cause. Check documentation if the side, vessel, or mechanism is unclear.
Coding tip
Verify both the embolic mechanism and the left carotid location before assigning this code.