ICD-10 Code I63.313 – Cerebral infarction due to thrombosis of bilateral middle cerebral arteries (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code I63.313 – Cerebral infarction due to thrombosis of bilateral middle cerebral arteries
What it is
This code identifies an ischemic stroke caused by a thrombus blocking both middle cerebral arteries. Use it when documentation specifies bilateral MCA thrombosis as the cause of cerebral infarction.
Clinical signs
Findings may include sudden focal neurologic deficits such as weakness, speech disturbance, sensory loss, or altered consciousness. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation and imaging confirmation when available.
When to use this code
Use this code when the provider documents cerebral infarction due to thrombosis affecting both middle cerebral arteries. It fits acute or established infarction when the bilateral arterial thrombosis is clearly stated. If the record only says ischemic stroke or MCA infarction without bilateral thrombosis, check documentation.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for embolic stroke, hemorrhagic stroke, or infarction involving only one middle cerebral artery. If laterality or mechanism is unclear, check documentation before assigning this code.
Coding tip
Code the documented mechanism and vessel location exactly; bilateral involvement matters here.