How To Use CPT Code 95905

CPT 95905 describes the diagnostic test known as motor and/or sensory nerve conduction studies. This article will cover the description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information, similar codes and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 95905?

CPT 95905 can be used to describe a diagnostic test that measures the speed of conduction of an electrical impulse through a peripheral nerve. This test, also known as a nerve conduction velocity study, helps determine the site of nerve damage and destruction. The provider performs motor and/or sensory nerve conduction studies using a preconfigured electrode array to assess the function of the motor and sensory nerves. The code includes an F-wave study when performed and requires interpretation and report by the provider.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 95905 is: ‘Motor and/or sensory nerve conduction, using preconfigured electrode array(s), amplitude and latency/velocity study, each limb, includes F-wave study when performed, with interpretation and report.’

3. Procedure

1. The provider prepares the patient for the nerve conduction study.
2. A preconfigured electrode array is placed on the patient to record the electrical activity of the nerves.
3. The provider performs motor and/or sensory nerve conduction studies, analyzing specific parameters such as latency, conduction velocity, and amplitude.
4. If necessary, an F-wave study is conducted to assess the motor axons.
5. The electrical activity is recorded as a waveform on a computer and analyzed by the provider.
6. After testing, the provider creates a formal interpretation and report of the results.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 95905 is used for patients who require motor and/or sensory nerve conduction studies to evaluate the function of their peripheral nerves. The test is performed using a preconfigured electrode array, and the provider interprets and reports the results. It is important to note that CPT 95905 should not be reported in conjunction with codes 95885, 95886, 95907-95913.

5. When to use CPT code 95905

CPT code 95905 should be used when a provider performs motor and/or sensory nerve conduction studies using a preconfigured electrode array. This code is appropriate for each limb studied, and only one unit of service should be reported per extremity, regardless of the number of studies performed. Modifier 26 should be appended if reporting only the professional component, and modifier TC should be appended if reporting only the technical component, unless the hospital provided the technical component.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 95905, the provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis and the need for motor and/or sensory nerve conduction studies
• Details of the preconfigured electrode array used
• Date of the study and the specific limbs studied
• Results of the motor and/or sensory nerve conduction studies, including latency, conduction velocity, and amplitude
• Results of the F-wave study, if performed
• Formal interpretation and report of the results

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 95905, ensure that the provider performs motor and/or sensory nerve conduction studies using a preconfigured electrode array. Do not report CPT 95905 in conjunction with codes 95885, 95886, 95907-95913. Modifier 26 should be appended if reporting only the professional component, and modifier TC should be appended if reporting only the technical component, unless the hospital provided the technical component.

8. Historical information

CPT 95905 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 2010. There have been no updates to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A neurologist performing motor and sensory nerve conduction studies on a patient’s upper and lower limbs to evaluate peripheral nerve function.
2. An orthopedic surgeon conducting a nerve conduction study on a patient’s arm to assess nerve damage after an injury.
3. A physical therapist performing motor and sensory nerve conduction studies on a patient’s leg to evaluate nerve function following a surgery.
4. An occupational therapist conducting a nerve conduction study on a patient’s hand to assess nerve compression in carpal tunnel syndrome.
5. A neurologist performing motor and sensory nerve conduction studies on a patient’s face to evaluate facial nerve function.
6. A podiatrist conducting a nerve conduction study on a patient’s foot to assess nerve damage in diabetic neuropathy.
7. A physiatrist performing motor and sensory nerve conduction studies on a patient’s back to evaluate nerve function in radiculopathy.
8. An anesthesiologist conducting a nerve conduction study on a patient’s chest to assess nerve function before a surgical procedure.
9. A rheumatologist performing motor and sensory nerve conduction studies on a patient’s hands and feet to evaluate peripheral neuropathy.
10. A neurosurgeon conducting a nerve conduction study on a patient’s spine to assess nerve function in spinal cord injuries.