ICD-10 Coding for Acute Ischemic Left MCA Stroke(I63.312, I63.512)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Acute Ischemic Left MCA Stroke. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Acute Ischemic Left MCA Stroke
I63.30-I63.39Primary Range
Cerebral infarction due to thrombosis of cerebral arteries
This range includes codes for cerebral infarction due to thrombosis, specifically affecting the left MCA.
Cerebral infarction due to embolism of cerebral arteries
This range includes codes for cerebral infarction due to embolism, which may affect the left MCA.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| I63.312 | Cerebral infarction due to thrombosis of left middle cerebral artery | Use when imaging confirms thrombosis in the left MCA. |
|
| I63.512 | Cerebral infarction due to embolism of left middle cerebral artery | Use when an embolic source is identified and confirmed by imaging. |
|
Clinical Decision Support
Always review the patient's clinical documentation thoroughly. When in doubt, choose the more specific code and ensure documentation supports it.
Key Information: ICD-10 code for acute ischemic left MCA stroke
Essential facts and insights about Acute Ischemic Left MCA Stroke
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for acute ischemic left mca stroke
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Imaging confirms thrombosis in left MCA.
documentation Criteria
- Provider notes specify 'thrombosis' and 'left MCA'.
Applicable To
- Thrombosis of left MCA
Excludes
- Embolism of left MCA (I63.512)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- CT/MRI showing left MCA thrombosis
- Clinical symptoms of right-sided weakness or aphasia
Code-Specific Risks
- Misclassification if etiology is not specified
Coding Notes
- Ensure documentation specifies thrombosis and left MCA involvement.
I63.512 - Cerebral infarction due to embolism of left middle cerebral artery
Use when an embolic source is identified and confirmed by imaging.
Applicable To
- Embolism of left MCA
Excludes
- Thrombosis of left MCA (I63.312)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Echocardiogram showing embolic source
- CT/MRI confirming embolism in left MCA
Coding Notes
Ensure documentation specifies embolism and left MCA involvement.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Hemiplegia/hemiparesis following cerebral infarction affecting right dominant side
I69.351Differential Codes
Alternative codes to consider when ruling out similar conditions to the primary diagnosis.
Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Acute Ischemic Left MCA Stroke to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code I63.312.
Impact
Clinical: May lead to inappropriate treatment decisions., Regulatory: Increases risk of coding audits., Financial: Potential for reduced reimbursement.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure imaging results are reviewed and documented., Use standardized templates for stroke documentation.
Impact
Reimbursement: May lead to lower reimbursement due to lack of specificity., Compliance: Increases risk of audits and denials., Data Quality: Reduces accuracy of clinical data.
Mitigation Strategy
Query for specific etiology and laterality to use specific codes like I63.312 or I63.512.
Impact
High risk of audits when unspecified codes are used despite available specific information.
Mitigation Strategy
Always query for specific etiology and laterality when not documented.
Documentation errors, coding pitfalls, and audit risks are interconnected aspects of medical coding and billing. Addressing all three areas helps ensure accurate coding, optimal reimbursement, and regulatory compliance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about ICD-10 coding for Acute Ischemic Left MCA Stroke, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Acute Ischemic Left MCA Stroke
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Acute Ischemic Left MCA Stroke. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Acute ischemic stroke with thrombosis
Specialty: NeurologyRequired Elements
- Patient demographics
- Onset of symptoms
- Imaging results
- NIHSS score
- Etiology and vessel involved
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
Need help with ICD-10 coding for Acute Ischemic Left MCA Stroke? Ask your questions below.