Cerebral infarction due to unspecified occlusion or stenosis of left vertebral artery
ICD10CM code
Cerebral Infarction Due to Unspecified Occlusion or Stenosis of Left Vertebral Artery (ICD Code I63.212)
Name of the Condition
- Common Name: Stroke
- Technical Term: Cerebral Infarction due to Occlusion or Stenosis of an Artery
Summary
A cerebral infarction occurs when blood flow to a part of the brain is disrupted, leading to tissue damage. This specific condition involves a blockage or narrowing in the left vertebral artery, a crucial blood vessel supplying blood to the brain.
Causes
The primary cause is often atherosclerosis, where plaque builds up inside the arteries. Other potential causes include embolism, where a blood clot travels from another part of the body, or artery dissection, where a tear forms in the artery wall.
Risk Factors
- Age (incidence increases after 55 years)
- Family history of strokes
- Hypertension and high cholesterol
- Smoking and excessive alcohol use
- Medical conditions such as diabetes or atrial fibrillation
Symptoms
- Sudden numbness or weakness on one side of the body
- Difficulty speaking or understanding speech
- Sudden vision problems in one or both eyes
- Severe headache with no known cause
- Loss of balance or coordination
Diagnosis
- Physical and neurological examination
- Imaging tests such as MRI or CT scan
- Doppler ultrasound to assess blood flow
- Blood tests to identify clotting disorders or cholesterol levels
Treatment Options
- Medications like anticoagulants or thrombolytics to prevent or dissolve clots
- Surgical procedures such as endarterectomy to remove blockage
- Rehabilitation therapies to aid recovery of functions
- Lifestyle modifications to address risk factors and prevent future strokes
Prognosis and Follow-Up
Recovery varies; some may regain most functions, while others may face long-term disabilities. Regular monitoring and follow-up appointments are crucial for managing recovery and preventing recurrences.
Complications
- Long-term physical disability or cognitive impairment
- Increased risk of another stroke
- Emotional or psychological challenges such as depression
Lifestyle & Prevention
- Adopt a heart-healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables
- Engage in regular physical activity
- Avoid smoking and limit alcohol intake
- Maintain healthy blood pressure and cholesterol levels
When to Seek Professional Help
Seek immediate medical attention if symptoms of a stroke appear, such as sudden numbness, confusion, or speech difficulties. Prompt treatment is critical for the best outcomes.
Additional Resources
- American Stroke Association: stroke.org
- National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke: ninds.nih.gov
Tips for Medical Coders
- Ensure accurate documentation of the specific artery involved.
- Verify the documentation clarifies "left vertebral artery" to avoid miscoding.
- Double-check associated conditions like hypertension or cholesterol issues that may need separate coding.