Nerve Conduction Studies and Electromyography

Nerve conduction studies (NCS) and electromyography (EMG) are covered when clinically indicated for localization and diagnosis of peripheral nerve and neuromuscular disorders (eg, focal compressive neuropathies, traumatic nerve lesions, generalized neuropathies, radiculopathies, myopathies, and neuromuscular junction disorders), with both modalities usually required to establish diagnosis. Providers must document clinical history, focused exam, real-time data acquisition and interpretation, and appropriate provider credentialing; routine surveillance testing for diabetic or ESRD polyneuropathy and certain automated or non–real-time testing modalities are not covered. Specific frequency limits include one NC-stat service per arm for high pre-test probability carpal tunnel syndrome and one EMG study per anatomic site when used to localize Botulinum toxin injections.

"Nerve conduction studies (NCS) are indicated for localization of focal neuropathies or compressive lesions such as carpal tunnel syndrome, ulnar neuropathies, and nerve root lesions."