ICD-10 Code I63.439 – Cerebral infarction due to embolism of unspecified posterior cerebral artery (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code I63.439 – Cerebral infarction due to embolism of unspecified posterior cerebral artery
What it is
This code identifies an ischemic stroke caused by an embolus blocking a posterior cerebral artery, but the affected side is not documented. It refers to infarction in the PCA territory, which can involve occipital or thalamic brain regions.
Clinical signs
Typical findings may include sudden visual field loss, visual disturbance, sensory changes, or confusion, depending on the infarct location. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use this code when the record documents cerebral infarction from embolism in a posterior cerebral artery and does not specify right or left. It is appropriate for confirmed ischemic stroke in the PCA distribution with embolic cause. If the side is documented, choose the laterality-specific code instead.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for hemorrhagic stroke, transient ischemic attack, or posterior circulation symptoms without confirmed infarction. If the embolic source or artery side is unclear, check documentation.
Coding tip
Verify both the embolic mechanism and the unspecified laterality before assigning I63.439.