ICD-10 Code I65.01 – Occlusion and stenosis of right vertebral artery (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code I65.01 – Occlusion and stenosis of right vertebral artery
What it is
I65.01 identifies narrowing or blockage of the right vertebral artery, one of the arteries that supplies blood to the brain. Use it when the right-sided vessel is specifically documented as stenosed or occluded.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Patients may have findings related to reduced posterior circulation blood flow, but the record should clearly support right vertebral artery stenosis or occlusion.
When to use this code
Use this code when imaging, specialist notes, or discharge documentation states occlusion or stenosis of the right vertebral artery. It is appropriate for known chronic disease and for evaluated vascular narrowing when the right side is specified.
If the provider documents vertebral artery disease without laterality, check the chart for the exact vessel and side before coding. Code only when the right vertebral artery is explicitly identified.
Do not use for
Do not use I65.01 for left, bilateral, or unspecified vertebral artery disease. Do not use it when the note describes symptoms alone or another cerebrovascular condition without documented right vertebral artery involvement.
Coding tip
Verify laterality from the imaging report or assessment note; right-sided documentation is required for I65.01.