ICD-10 Code I67.81 – Acute cerebrovascular insufficiency (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code I67.81 – Acute cerebrovascular insufficiency
What it is
Acute cerebrovascular insufficiency means a sudden reduction in blood flow to the brain. It is used when the record describes transient or acute cerebral hypoperfusion, not a completed stroke.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. You may see abrupt neurologic symptoms such as dizziness, confusion, weakness, or speech difficulty, with findings suggesting reduced brain perfusion rather than infarction.
When to use this code
Use I67.81 when the provider documents acute cerebrovascular insufficiency, acute cerebral ischemia, or similar wording tied to insufficient cerebral blood flow. Code it when the note supports a cerebrovascular process but does not document an acute infarct or hemorrhage.
Review the assessment, imaging, and discharge summary for the final diagnosis. If the record instead supports TIA, stroke, or another cerebrovascular condition, choose the documented condition.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for confirmed cerebral infarction, intracranial hemorrhage, or nonspecific dizziness without a documented cerebrovascular cause. Check documentation if the diagnosis is unclear.
Coding tip
Match the code to the provider’s final diagnosis and avoid assuming stroke when the chart only documents transient or acute insufficiency.