Name of the Condition

• Cerebral infarction due to embolism of unspecified cerebral artery
• Often referred to as an embolic stroke.

Summary

• A cerebral infarction occurs when blood flow to a part of the brain is disrupted, leading to tissue damage. In this case, the disruption is due to an embolism—a clot or other blockage that originates elsewhere in the body and travels to the brain, affecting an unspecified cerebral artery.

Causes

• The primary cause is an embolism, which often originates from the heart or large arteries. Conditions such as atrial fibrillation, heart valve disease, or recent heart surgery can lead to emboli formation.

Risk Factors

• High blood pressure, atrial fibrillation, heart disease, previous strokes or transient ischemic attacks (TIAs), smoking, high cholesterol, diabetes, and genetic predisposition can all increase the risk.

Symptoms

• Sudden weakness or numbness, especially on one side of the body, confusion, difficulty speaking or understanding speech, sudden vision problems, dizziness, loss of balance or coordination, and sudden severe headache.

Diagnosis

• Diagnosis typically involves imaging tests like CT scans or MRIs, and might also include ultrasound of the carotid arteries and echocardiograms to identify the source of the embolism.

Treatment Options

• Immediate treatments may include intravenous thrombolytics (clot busters) or surgical interventions like mechanical thrombectomy. Long-term management includes antiplatelet or anticoagulant medications, managing underlying conditions like hypertension or atrial fibrillation, and lifestyle changes to prevent future strokes.

Prognosis and Follow-Up

• Prognosis varies depending on the size and location of the infarction and the time to treatment. Rehabilitation and physical therapy may be necessary. Regular medical follow-up is crucial to manage risk factors and prevent recurrent strokes.

Complications

• Potential complications include permanent paralysis, difficulty speaking or swallowing, cognitive impairments, and increased risk for subsequent strokes.

Lifestyle & Prevention

• A healthy lifestyle—such as maintaining a balanced diet, regular exercise, not smoking, and managing stress—can help reduce the risk. Regular medical care to control underlying conditions like hypertension and diabetes is essential.

When to Seek Professional Help

• Immediate medical attention is necessary at the first sign of stroke symptoms, such as facial drooping, arm weakness, and speech difficulties.

Additional Resources

• American Stroke Association (www.stroke.org)
• National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (www.ninds.nih.gov)

Tips for Medical Coders

• Double-check the unspecified nature of the cerebral artery affected to ensure accuracy.
• Be aware of distinctions between embolic, thrombotic, and other types of strokes to avoid coding errors.