ICD-10 Code I63.1 – Cerebral infarction due to embolism of precerebral arteries (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code I63.1 – Cerebral infarction due to embolism of precerebral arteries
What it is
This code identifies an ischemic stroke caused by an embolus blocking a precerebral artery, such as the carotid or vertebral circulation. The blockage reduces blood flow to brain tissue and leads to infarction.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Typical findings include sudden focal neurologic deficits such as weakness, speech disturbance, vision loss, or facial droop consistent with an acute cerebral infarction.
When to use this code
Use I63.1 when the provider documents cerebral infarction due to embolism affecting a precerebral artery. It is appropriate when imaging or clinical assessment supports an acute ischemic stroke and the embolic source is in the precerebral circulation. Check documentation for laterality, acuity, and any associated deficits.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for hemorrhagic stroke, transient ischemic attack, or infarction caused by thrombosis rather than embolism. If the artery involved is not precerebral, check documentation for a more specific code.
Coding tip
Code the documented stroke mechanism and vessel location exactly as stated; if embolic source is unclear, check documentation before assigning I63.1.