ICD-10 Code I65.02 – Occlusion and stenosis of left vertebral artery (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code I65.02 – Occlusion and stenosis of left vertebral artery
What it is
I65.02 identifies narrowing or blockage of the left vertebral artery, one of the vessels supplying blood to the posterior brain. Use it when documentation specifies the left side and an occlusive or stenotic process.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Patients may have posterior circulation ischemic symptoms such as dizziness, vertigo, imbalance, visual disturbance, or other neurologic deficits, depending on severity and acuity.
When to use this code
Use this code when the provider documents left vertebral artery stenosis or occlusion, with or without symptoms. It may appear in imaging reports, vascular assessments, or discharge diagnoses when the left vertebral artery is specifically identified. Check documentation if the record does not clearly state laterality or whether the lesion is occlusive.
Do not use for
Do not use I65.02 for right, bilateral, or unspecified vertebral artery disease. Do not use it when the record describes vertebral artery dissection, embolism, or another vascular disorder instead.
Coding tip
Always confirm laterality and whether the finding is stenosis, occlusion, or another vertebral artery condition before assigning I65.02.