CPT® Code 95911

Nerve conduction studies (NCS) are diagnostic tests utilized to assess the functionality of peripheral nerves. These studies are particularly important for identifying nerve damage and various nerve disorders, including conditions such as carpal tunnel syndrome. Patients may present with symptoms like numbness, tingling, or other abnormal sensations, which can indicate underlying nerve issues. During the procedure, several flat metal disc electrodes are affixed to the skin using paste or tape to ensure proper contact. A shock-emitting electrode is strategically placed over the nerve being evaluated, while a recording electrode is positioned over the muscles that the nerve innervates. When electrical pulses are transmitted through the shock-emitting electrode, the conduction time is measured, which is the duration it takes for the muscle to contract in response to the electrical stimulus. Additionally, the amplitude, or strength of the muscle response, along with the speed of the response, is recorded, reflecting both latency and velocity. After the completion of the studies, the physician analyzes the recorded data and generates a comprehensive written report detailing the findings. This procedure is categorized under CPT® Code 95911, which specifically pertains to the performance of 9-10 nerve conduction studies, and is part of a broader coding system that includes various codes for different quantities of studies performed.