Vertebral artery syndrome

Vertebral artery syndrome, also known as vertebrobasilar insufficiency, refers to a collection of symptoms caused by reduced blood flow through the vertebral and basilar arteries to the brainstem and cerebellum. This diminished blood supply can lead to neurological deficits such as dizziness, vertigo, visual disturbances, and ataxia.

Use this code when documentation clearly indicates symptoms attributable to compromised blood flow in the vertebrobasilar arterial system. This often includes transient ischemic attacks (TIAs) in the posterior circulation or chronic symptoms of vertebrobasilar insufficiency. Supporting documentation may include findings from Doppler ultrasound, MRA, or angiogram confirming arterial stenosis or occlusion.

• Differentiate from other causes of dizziness or vertigo; ensure documentation specifies a vascular etiology.
• Consider sequencing with codes for underlying conditions contributing to the syndrome, such as atherosclerosis (e.g., 437.0).
• If the vertebral artery syndrome is due to an injury, ensure appropriate trauma codes are also assigned.