ICD-10 Code I63.533 – Cerebral infarction due to unspecified occlusion or stenosis of bilateral posterior cerebral arteries (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code I63.533 – Cerebral infarction due to unspecified occlusion or stenosis of bilateral posterior cerebral arteries
What it is
This code identifies an ischemic stroke affecting both posterior cerebral arteries when the blockage or narrowing is not further specified. It indicates brain tissue injury from reduced blood flow in the posterior circulation.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Common findings may include visual field loss, confusion, memory problems, or other occipital and temporal lobe deficits consistent with posterior circulation infarction.
When to use this code
Use this code when the record documents cerebral infarction involving both posterior cerebral arteries and does not specify the cause beyond occlusion or stenosis. It also fits when imaging or specialist notes confirm bilateral posterior cerebral artery territory stroke. If laterality or vessel detail is more specific, code that documented detail instead.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for hemorrhagic stroke, transient ischemic attack, or infarction limited to a different cerebral artery territory. Check documentation if the record does not clearly support bilateral posterior cerebral artery involvement.
Coding tip
Confirm both laterality and vessel territory in the provider note or imaging report before assigning I63.533.