Billing and Coding: Nerve Conduction Studies and Electromyography

This billing and coding guidance ties EMG and nerve conduction study coverage to clinical indications such as carpal tunnel, radiculopathy, mononeuropathy, polyneuropathy, myopathy, motor neuropathy, plexopathy, NMJ disorders, tarsal tunnel, focal/generalized weakness, and focal/bilateral sensory symptoms, with specific CPT coding rules. The policy specifies documentation requirements (referral clinical history, numeric NCS data, code‑specific reporting), enumerates common reasons for denial (missing data, surface/macro EMG, unsupported repeat testing), and provides typical maximum numbers of limbs/muscles and nerves studied per diagnosis; testing beyond those numbers requires supplementary justification.

"Electrodiagnostic testing (EMG and/or nerve conduction studies) is indicated for evaluation of suspected carpal tunnel syndrome."

Sign up to see full coverage criteria, indications, and limitations.