Facial weakness following cerebral infarction

This code indicates the presence of facial weakness, such as hemifacial paresis or paralysis, that persists as a sequela of a completed cerebral infarction (ischemic stroke). It signifies a long-term neurological deficit affecting facial muscle function due to prior brain tissue damage from lack of blood flow.

Use this code for patients presenting with chronic or residual facial weakness directly attributable to a past ischemic stroke. Documentation should clearly state a history of cerebral infarction and current facial weakness, often described as a "stroke-related deficit" or "post-stroke facial palsy."

• Always sequence this code after the appropriate code for the cerebral infarction (I69.3xx) if the infarction is still being treated or monitored.
• Ensure documentation specifies "facial weakness" and not just a general neurological deficit.
• Distinguish from acute facial weakness (e.g., Bell's Palsy, G51.0) which is not stroke-related.