Summary & Overview
CPT 95905: Motor and Sensory Nerve Conduction Studies
CPT code 95905 represents motor and/or sensory nerve conduction studies performed with a preconfigured electrode array, often including an F–wave study and requiring provider interpretation and a formal report. These electrodiagnostic tests are central to diagnosing peripheral neuropathies, entrapment neuropathies, and other neuromuscular disorders, and they inform clinical management and eligibility for interventions. Nationally, accurate coding and documentation for 95905 affect clinical workflows, utilization tracking, and payment consistency across payers.
Key payers addressed in this analysis include Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna Health, UnitedHealthcare, and Medicare. Readers will find a concise overview of the clinical context for nerve conduction studies, typical sites of service, and the elements required for reporting. The publication outlines common modifier usage and payer coverage patterns where available, national benchmarking considerations, and recent policy clarifications that affect coding and claims processing. Practical takeaways include what constitutes the service, billing expectations for inclusion of F–wave studies, and items commonly audited on claims for electrodiagnostic testing. Data not available in the input will be noted where relevant.
Billing Code Overview
CPT code 95905 describes motor and/or sensory nerve conduction studies performed using a preconfigured electrode array. These diagnostic procedures evaluate the electrical conduction and functional integrity of peripheral motor and sensory nerves. The code specifically includes an F–wave study when performed and requires the provider's interpretation and report.
Service type: Electrodiagnostic diagnostic testing (nerve conduction studies)
Typical site of service: Outpatient clinic, neurology or physiatry clinic, or hospital outpatient department
Clinical & Coding Specifications
Clinical Context
A 52-year-old patient presents to an outpatient neurology or electrodiagnostic clinic with progressive numbness and tingling in the right hand and intermittent weakness affecting grip. The referring neurologist requests evaluation to differentiate focal median neuropathy (carpal tunnel) from a polyneuropathy. The patient completes a focused history and neurologic examination. The provider explains the diagnostic plan and assesses for contraindications (e.g., skin infection at electrode sites, implanted cardiac devices as applicable). Using a preconfigured electrode array, the clinician performs 95905 motor and/or sensory nerve conduction studies, including F‑wave testing if indicated. The technologist or clinician places stimulating and recording electrodes, delivers controlled electrical stimuli, and records latencies, amplitudes, and conduction velocities. The physician interprets the tracings, documents findings, and generates a signed report including comparison to normative values, technical parameters, and clinical correlation. Typical sites of service include outpatient hospital-based electrodiagnostic laboratories, independent ambulatory electrodiagnostic clinics, and physician offices equipped for nerve conduction studies. The service is diagnostic and requires direct interpretation and report by the provider.
Coding Specifications
| Modifier | Description | When to Use |
|---|---|---|
26 | Professional component |