ICD-10 Code I63.519 – Cerebral infarction due to unspecified occlusion or stenosis of unspecified middle cerebral artery (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code I63.519 – Cerebral infarction due to unspecified occlusion or stenosis of unspecified middle cerebral artery
What it is
This code identifies an ischemic stroke affecting the middle cerebral artery when the blockage or narrowing is not further specified. Use it when documentation confirms cerebral infarction but does not name the exact side or vessel detail.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include sudden focal neurologic deficits such as weakness, speech disturbance, facial droop, or sensory loss. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation and imaging or provider assessment supporting middle cerebral artery territory infarction.
When to use this code
Use I63.519 when the record states cerebral infarction due to occlusion or stenosis of the middle cerebral artery, but the documentation does not specify whether it is left or right, or whether the occlusion is partial or complete. It also fits when laterality is not documented.
Choose this code only after confirming the stroke is ischemic and linked to the middle cerebral artery territory. If the provider specifies a more exact MCA site or side, code that specific option instead.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for hemorrhagic stroke, transient ischemic attack, or cerebral infarction from another artery. Do not use it when the chart clearly identifies a more specific MCA occlusion or stenosis code.
Coding tip
If the artery side or occlusion detail is missing, code the unspecified option only after checking the documentation.