ICD-10 Code G45.0 – Vertebro-basilar artery syndrome (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code G45.0 – Vertebro-basilar artery syndrome
What it is
G45.0 identifies a transient ischemic attack involving the vertebrobasilar circulation, which supplies the brainstem, cerebellum, and occipital lobes. It is used when symptoms are brief and related to temporary reduced blood flow in this artery territory.
Clinical signs
Clinical features may include dizziness, vertigo, double vision, unsteady gait, dysarthria, or other posterior circulation neurologic symptoms. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use G45.0 when the provider documents vertebrobasilar artery syndrome, vertebrobasilar insufficiency, or a posterior circulation TIA affecting this vascular territory. Code it when the episode is transient and the record supports an ischemic neurologic event rather than a completed stroke. Check documentation if laterality or acuity is unclear.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for confirmed cerebral infarction, chronic dizziness without ischemic evidence, or nonspecific syncope. If the documentation does not support a vertebrobasilar ischemic event, check documentation.
Coding tip
Base assignment on the provider’s documented diagnosis and vascular territory, not on symptoms alone.