Vertebrobasilar artery syndrome

This code signifies a constellation of neurological symptoms resulting from insufficient blood flow through the vertebrobasilar arterial system, which supplies the brainstem, cerebellum, and posterior cerebrum. Symptoms often include dizziness, vertigo, visual disturbances, ataxia, and cranial nerve deficits.

Apply this code when documentation clearly indicates a diagnosis of vertebrobasilar insufficiency or syndrome, often presenting with transient ischemic attacks (TIAs) in the posterior circulation. Supporting documentation should detail the specific neurological symptoms attributable to compromised blood flow in the vertebrobasilar system, often confirmed by imaging studies like MRA or CTA.

• Ensure documentation specifies "syndrome" or "insufficiency" of the vertebrobasilar artery, not just a general cerebrovascular event.
• Differentiate from other causes of vertigo or dizziness; the documentation must link symptoms to vertebrobasilar compromise.
• Consider sequencing with codes for underlying conditions contributing to the insufficiency, such as atherosclerosis (e.g., 437.0).