In simple words: A stroke caused by a blockage or narrowing of arteries in the brain, where the exact location of the blockage isn't known.This kind of stroke leads to the death of brain tissue in the affected area.

Cerebral infarction resulting from the occlusion or stenosis of cerebral arteries, where the specific artery affected is not specified.This includes lacunar infarcts, which are caused by occlusion of the deep penetrating arteries of the brain.

Example 1: A patient presents with sudden onset of weakness on one side of the body and slurred speech. Imaging reveals a small area of dead brain tissue consistent with an infarct, but the specific occluded or stenosed artery is not identified. I63.5 is appropriate in this case., A patient with a history of hypertension experiences sudden dizziness and difficulty with balance. Diagnostic imaging shows multiple small lacunar infarcts deep within the brain. Since the specific affected arteries are not identified, I63.5 would be used., A patient is admitted to the hospital with symptoms of a stroke. Initial imaging suggests a possible blockage, but further diagnostic tests are inconclusive in identifying the specific artery. If the final diagnosis remains unspecified, I63.5 should be used for coding.

Documentation should include details of the clinical presentation, imaging findings (e.g., CT, MRI) confirming cerebral infarction, and any results of diagnostic tests performed to identify the cause of the stroke.Any associated conditions, such as hypertension, should also be documented.If documentation is conflicting, query the provider for clarification.

** Lacunar infarcts are specifically included in this code.