Cerebrovascular Coding in ICD-10-CM

Description

Cerebrovascular Accident, Infarction, Thrombosis, Embolus or Stroke and Sequelae Coding is an online, self-paced course for inpatient, outpatient, and professional fee coders who need a clear understanding of how ICD-10-CM classifies acute cerebrovascular events and their residual effects. This module reviews key clinical distinctions among infarction, thrombosis, embolus, and stroke, along with documentation elements that determine accurate code selection. Coders will also learn how to apply sequencing rules and assign codes for stroke sequelae based on provider documentation. The course includes 1 AHIMA CEU and helps coders improve accuracy and consistency when coding cerebrovascular conditions.

Included Lessons:

What Is a “Cerebrovascular Accident” Or “Stroke”?
Diagnosing a Stroke
Treatment Of Stroke
Current Stroke/Cerebral Infarctions
Residuals And Sequelae Of Stroke
Coding The Residuals Of Acute Stroke And Sequelae Of Stroke
Related Official Coding Guidelines And Coding Clinics

Key Takeaways

Understanding Acute Cerebral Infarction: Gain a clear and concise understanding of acute cerebral infarction and its various terminologies such as CVA, thrombosis, embolus, and stroke, ensuring a strong foundation for accurate medical coding.
Treatment Modalities: Learn about the common treatment options for cerebral infarction. This knowledge will be essential for coding various treatment approaches accurately and comprehensively.
Sequelae Coding: Develop the expertise to accurately assign sequelae codes related to cerebral infarction, understanding precisely when it is appropriate to use these codes and when it’s not.
Mastering Sequencing: Improve your skills in sequencing codes, with a special focus on determining the principal diagnosis. This is crucial for enhancing the accuracy of medical coding and billing processes.
Practical Application: Build confidence in applying the acquired knowledge practically, ensuring that you can navigate the real-world challenges of medical coding related to cerebral infarction with precision and reliability.
Enhanced Accuracy: Aim to enhance the accuracy in medical coding practices, ensuring that every code assigned is as precise and reflective of the patient’s medical condition and treatment as possible.

What will I learn about coding cerebrovascular accidents (CVA) and cerebral infarctions in ICD-10-CM?

This course explains how to accurately code cerebrovascular accidents and cerebral infarctions using ICD-10-CM, including how infarction type, affected vessel, and clinical presentation influence code selection. You’ll learn how to interpret provider documentation and apply guideline-driven logic to ensure the correct codes are assigned for acute stroke events.

How does the course help coders distinguish between thrombosis, embolus, and infarction for accurate code assignment?

The course breaks down the clinical and coding differences between thrombosis, embolus, and infarction and explains how ICD-10-CM classifies each condition. You’ll learn how documentation terminology and diagnostic findings guide code selection, helping you avoid misclassification and improve consistency in stroke-related coding.

Will this course improve my ability to code stroke sequelae and late effects correctly?

Yes. The course explains how to identify and code sequelae of cerebrovascular disease, including residual deficits and ongoing neurologic impairments. You’ll learn how to apply sequencing rules and select appropriate combination codes so stroke aftereffects are accurately and compliantly reported.

About Our Medical Coding Courses

HIAlearn, powered by Health Information Associates (HIA)—a leader in medical coding and auditing for more than three decades—offers a flexible, online education platform designed for today’s coders. With a growing catalog of AHIMA and AAPC-approved coding courses, HIAlearn supports both beginners and experienced coders looking to build confidence, accuracy, and CEU credits.

Courses are available across various coding types including CPT, E/M, ICD-10-CM, and ICD-10-PCS, and are designed for multiple specialties including inpatient, outpatient, profee, and CDI.

To stay up to date, coders can explore our Coding Updates hub for the latest ICD-10-CM, ICD-10-PCS, CPT, and IPPS changes. HIAlearn also supports organizations with group discounts and scalable team access, promoting accuracy, compliance, and continuous professional development across departments.