ICD-10 Code I60.5 – Nontraumatic subarachnoid hemorrhage from vertebral artery (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code I60.5 – Nontraumatic subarachnoid hemorrhage from vertebral artery
What it is
This code identifies a spontaneous subarachnoid hemorrhage caused by bleeding from the vertebral artery. It is used when the source is nontraumatic and specifically documented as vertebral artery.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include sudden severe headache, neck pain, nausea, vomiting, and possible neurologic deficits. Imaging or clinical documentation should support subarachnoid hemorrhage and the vertebral artery source.
When to use this code
Use I60.5 when the record clearly states a nontraumatic subarachnoid hemorrhage originating from the vertebral artery. You should also use it when the provider documents vertebral artery aneurysmal rupture or other vertebral artery bleeding as the cause. Check documentation if the vessel source is not explicit.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for traumatic subarachnoid hemorrhage or hemorrhage from another intracranial artery. If the documentation only says subarachnoid hemorrhage without a vertebral artery source, check documentation.
Coding tip
Assign I60.5 only when the vertebral artery is named as the bleeding source in the final diagnosis.