Cerebral infarction due to thrombosis of basilar artery

This code signifies a stroke resulting from a blood clot forming within the basilar artery, leading to a lack of blood flow and subsequent tissue death in the brainstem or posterior cerebral circulation. This type of infarction can cause severe neurological deficits due to its critical location.

Apply this code when documentation clearly states a cerebral infarction caused by thrombosis specifically affecting the basilar artery. Supporting documentation should include imaging reports (e.g., MRI, CT angiography) confirming basilar artery occlusion and clinical findings consistent with a posterior circulation stroke.

• Distinguish from embolism; this code is specific to thrombosis (in-situ clot formation).
• Ensure the documentation specifies the basilar artery as the affected vessel, not a more general cerebral artery.
• Sequence appropriately with any associated sequelae or underlying conditions contributing to the thrombosis.