ICD-10 Code I97.81 – Intraoperative cerebrovascular infarction (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code I97.81 – Intraoperative cerebrovascular infarction
What it is
This code identifies a cerebrovascular infarction that occurs during surgery. It reflects a stroke-like brain injury linked to the operative period, not a preexisting cerebrovascular disease.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Typical findings may include new focal neurologic deficits, altered speech, weakness, or other acute neurologic changes recognized during or immediately after surgery.
When to use this code
Use this code when the record clearly states an intraoperative cerebrovascular infarction or a stroke occurring during the procedure. It is appropriate when the provider links the neurologic event to the surgery itself. Check documentation for timing and causality if the note is unclear.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for a prior stroke, postoperative neurologic deficit without confirmed infarction, or nonspecific encephalopathy. If the documentation does not confirm an intraoperative infarction, check documentation.
Coding tip
Assign this code only when the operative record or provider documentation explicitly identifies an intraoperative cerebrovascular infarction.