ICD-10 Code I65.29 – Occlusion and stenosis of unspecified carotid artery (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code I65.29 – Occlusion and stenosis of unspecified carotid artery
What it is
I65.29 identifies narrowing or blockage of a carotid artery when the side is not specified. Use it for documented carotid disease affecting blood flow to the brain, but only when the record does not name the left or right artery.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Patients may have carotid bruits, transient neurologic symptoms, or imaging showing stenosis or occlusion, but the chart must support the diagnosis.
When to use this code
Use this code when the provider documents carotid occlusion or stenosis and does not identify the affected side. It also fits imaging or specialist notes that confirm carotid narrowing without laterality. If the record names a specific carotid artery, choose the more precise code instead.
Do not use for
Do not use it for carotid disease with documented left or right laterality, or for conditions outside the carotid arteries. Check documentation if the note only mentions a bruit or suspected disease without confirmed stenosis or occlusion.
Coding tip
Before assigning I65.29, verify that laterality is truly unspecified and that the diagnosis is confirmed, not merely suspected.