Name of the Condition

• Cerebral infarction due to thrombosis of left vertebral artery
• Also known as "stroke due to blood clot in the left vertebral artery."

Summary

• This condition occurs when a blood clot (thrombosis) blocks the left vertebral artery, leading to a stroke. This blockage prevents blood from reaching parts of the brain, causing brain tissue damage or death.

Causes

• Atherosclerosis (buildup of plaques in arteries)
• Blood clotting disorders
• Heart disease
• Injury to the artery

Risk Factors

• Advanced age
• High blood pressure
• High cholesterol
• Smoking
• Diabetes
• Obesity
• Sedentary lifestyle
• Family history of stroke or cardiovascular disease

Symptoms

• Sudden weakness or numbness in the face, arm, or leg, particularly on one side of the body
• Difficulty speaking or understanding speech
• Sudden vision problems in one or both eyes
• Loss of balance or coordination
• Sudden severe headache with no known cause

Diagnosis

• CT scan or MRI of the brain to identify areas affected by stroke
• Doppler ultrasound or angiography to view blood flow in the vertebral artery
• Blood tests to assess clotting tendency and other stroke risk factors

Treatment Options

• Antiplatelet or anticoagulant medications to prevent further clotting
• Thrombolytic therapy to dissolve clots (usually administered within hours of stroke onset)
• Endovascular procedures, such as thrombectomy, to remove the clot
• Physical, occupational, or speech therapy in recovery to regain function

Prognosis and Follow-Up

• Outcome varies; depends on the size, location of the infarction, and promptness of treatment.
• Regular follow-up is crucial for managing risk factors and preventing future strokes.

Complications

• Permanent neurological deficits
• Increased risk of subsequent strokes
• Cognitive impairment
• Physical disability

Lifestyle & Prevention

• Maintain a healthy diet and exercise regularly
• Control blood pressure and cholesterol levels
• Avoid smoking and limit alcohol consumption
• Manage diabetes effectively
• Take prescribed medications as advised

When to Seek Professional Help

• Immediate medical attention is required if any symptoms of a stroke appear, as early treatment can significantly improve outcomes.

Additional Resources

• American Stroke Association stroke.org
• National Stroke Association [stroke.org]

Tips for Medical Coders

• Ensure accurate documentation of the specific artery involved (left vertebral artery) when coding.
• Be precise in distinguishing between thrombosis and other types of vessel occlusions (e.g., embolism).