ICD-10 Code I63.512 – Cerebral infarction due to unspecified occlusion or stenosis of left middle cerebral artery (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code I63.512 – Cerebral infarction due to unspecified occlusion or stenosis of left middle cerebral artery
What it is
This code identifies an ischemic stroke caused by reduced blood flow in the left middle cerebral artery. Use it when the record specifies infarction in that artery but does not name the exact cause of the blockage.
Clinical signs
Findings often include sudden neurologic deficits such as right-sided weakness, speech or language problems, and facial droop. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation and imaging when available.
When to use this code
Use this code when the provider documents cerebral infarction involving the left middle cerebral artery and describes the occlusion or stenosis as unspecified. It fits acute stroke encounters and follow-up notes that still identify the infarct site. Make sure the documentation supports an ischemic infarction, not a transient ischemic attack or hemorrhage.
Do not use for
Do not use this code if the chart identifies a different artery, a hemorrhagic stroke, or only symptoms without confirmed infarction. Check documentation when the side, vessel, or mechanism is unclear.
Coding tip
Verify that both the infarction and the left middle cerebral artery are documented before assigning I63.512.