Septic arterial embolism

This code describes an arterial occlusion caused by an infected thrombus or vegetation that has dislodged from its primary site and traveled through the arterial system. This embolic event leads to ischemia and potential infarction of the affected tissue, with the added complication of infection.

Use this code when documentation clearly indicates an arterial embolism with a stated or implied infectious origin, such as from endocarditis, an infected aneurysm, or a septic thrombophlebitis. Supporting documentation should specify both the embolic event and the septic nature.

• Always code the underlying cause of the septic embolism, such as infective endocarditis, first.
• Specify the anatomical site of the arterial embolism with an additional code if known.
• Distinguish from non-septic arterial embolisms (e.g., 444.2x, 444.8x) which lack the infectious component.