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Needle electromyography (EMG) is a diagnostic procedure utilized to assess the functionality of muscles and nerves that are innervated by cranial nerves. This procedure specifically targets cranial nerve supplied muscles, which include a variety of cranial nerves such as CN III (Oculomotor), CN IV (Trochlear), CN V (Trigeminal), CN VI (Abducens), CN VII (Facial), CN IX (Glossopharyngeal), CN X (Vagus), CN XI (Spinal), and CN XII (Hypoglossal). During the EMG, a specialized needle electrode is carefully inserted through the skin and into the muscle that is being evaluated. This allows for the recording of electrical activity and responses from the muscle, which are crucial for determining the health and function of both the muscle and the associated nerve. After the procedure, the physician analyzes the recorded data and compiles a comprehensive written report detailing the findings. It is important to note that CPT® Code 95867 is specifically designated for use when the EMG is conducted on one of the paired cranial nerves on a single side of the body, while CPT® Code 95868 should be used when both paired cranial nerves are assessed.
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