W6522: Primary open reduction of dislocation of small joint
For guidance only. Always check the code and obtain authorisation from your insurer before treatment. Other insurers may use different codes and coding rules.
For guidance only. Procedure codes and descriptions on this site are provided for general guidance only and are not a guarantee of insurance cover or payment. Always check the correct code with your surgeon's secretary and obtain authorisation from your insurer before treatment. Insurers shown are examples only. Other insurers are available, and each may use the same, similar or different codes and coding rules.
Insurer listing
| Insurer | Status | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Bupa | Listed | Listed by Bupa |
| AXA Health | Listed | Listed by AXA Health |
| Vitality | Check cover | Listed by Vitality: check cover at pre-authorisation |
| WPA | Listed | Listed by WPA |
Codes that can't be billed with W6522
Neither code can be billed with the other
AXA Health also lists these codes as unacceptable combinations (6)
- W9040: Injection(s) +/- aspiration, into joint, cyst, bursa - unilateral
- W9020: Dynamic arthrogram of joint
- W6702: Secondary open reduction of dislocation of small joint
- S5210: Injection into subcutaneous tissue/painful trigger point under local anaesthetic
- W6523: Primary open reduction of dislocation of large joint
- W9030: Injection(s) +/- aspiration, into joint, cyst, bursa with image guidance - unilateral
Related codes
- W6702: Secondary open reduction of dislocation of small joint
- W6523: Primary open reduction of dislocation of large joint
- W6703: Secondary open reduction of dislocation of large joint
- W6630: Primary closed reduction of fracture or dislocation of joint, +/- fixation (including cast application)
- W1940: Primary open reduction of short bone with fixation (including intra-articular)
- W1920: Primary open reduction of long bone with fixation
Frequently asked questions
What is the procedure code for primary open reduction of dislocation of small joint?
The procedure code is W6522: Primary open reduction of dislocation of small joint.
Which insurers list W6522?
W6522 is listed by Bupa, AXA Health and WPA. Vitality lists it, but you should check cover before treatment. Always confirm the code and cover with your insurer.
Can W6522 be billed with other procedures?
The coding rules say W6522 cannot be billed together with 4 other codes, including W6523 (Primary open reduction of dislocation of large joint), W6702 (Secondary open reduction of dislocation of small joint), W9040 (Injection(s) +/- aspiration, into joint, cyst, bursa - unilateral). See the full list above.
What does my procedure code mean?
For guidance only. Procedure codes and descriptions on this site are provided for general guidance only and are not a guarantee of insurance cover or payment. Always check the correct code with your surgeon's secretary and obtain authorisation from your insurer before treatment. Insurers shown are examples only. Other insurers are available, and each may use the same, similar or different codes and coding rules.
Codes and descriptions are for guidance only. Insurer listing and cover information is taken from each insurer's published schedule and is for guidance only: always confirm the code and cover with the insurer before treatment. This site is not affiliated with CCSD or any insurer. No fees are shown.
Last checked: 2026-10-01