ICD-10 Code I63.00 – Cerebral infarction due to thrombosis of unspecified precerebral artery (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code I63.00 – Cerebral infarction due to thrombosis of unspecified precerebral artery
What it is
This code identifies an ischemic stroke caused by a blood clot in a precerebral artery, but the exact artery is not specified. Use it when the record confirms thrombosis and cerebral infarction without naming the vessel.
Clinical signs
Findings typically reflect an acute stroke syndrome, such as sudden focal neurologic deficits, speech difficulty, facial droop, or unilateral weakness. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use I63.00 when the provider documents cerebral infarction due to thrombosis of a precerebral artery and does not identify the specific artery involved. It may also fit discharge summaries, imaging reports, or consult notes that support ischemic infarction from thrombosis. If the documentation names a specific vessel, code that more precise option instead.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for hemorrhagic stroke, transient ischemic attack, or infarction from embolism or arterial dissection. Check documentation if the cause or vessel is unclear.
Coding tip
Look for the words “thrombosis,” “cerebral infarction,” and “unspecified precerebral artery” together before assigning this code.