Central retinal artery occlusion, unspecified eye

This code signifies a sudden, severe loss of vision in one eye due to a blockage in the central retinal artery. This blockage prevents blood flow to the retina, leading to retinal ischemia and potential permanent vision loss. It represents an acute ocular emergency.

Use this code when the medical record documents a central retinal artery occlusion (CRAO) and the specific eye affected is not specified. Documentation should clearly state the diagnosis of CRAO without laterality. This code is appropriate when the provider has not indicated whether the right or left eye is involved.

• Do not use this code if the medical record specifies laterality (e.g., right eye, left eye).
• Always query the provider for laterality if not documented to allow for more specific coding (H34.11- or H34.12-).
• Consider co-morbidities such as atherosclerosis, hypertension, or diabetes, which are often associated with CRAO.