ICD-10 Code I63.53 – Cerebral infarction due to unspecified occlusion or stenosis of posterior cerebral artery (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code I63.53 – Cerebral infarction due to unspecified occlusion or stenosis of posterior cerebral artery
What it is
This code identifies an ischemic stroke caused by reduced blood flow in a posterior cerebral artery, when the occlusion or stenosis is not further specified. It indicates cerebral infarction in the artery’s territory.
Clinical signs
Findings may include sudden visual field loss, visual disturbance, numbness, weakness, or language changes depending on the infarct location. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use this code when the provider documents a cerebral infarction linked to an unspecified occlusion or stenosis of the posterior cerebral artery. It fits confirmed ischemic stroke involving that vessel territory when no more specific cause or laterality is recorded.
Apply it only when the record supports infarction, not transient symptoms alone. If the artery is described as embolic, thrombotic, or otherwise specified, check documentation for a more precise code.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for transient ischemic attack, retinal ischemia, or strokes in other arterial territories. Check documentation if the cause is specified differently.
Coding tip
Confirm both the infarction and the posterior cerebral artery involvement before assigning I63.53.