W6523: Primary open reduction of dislocation of large 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 | Listed | Listed by Vitality |
| WPA | Listed | Listed by WPA |
Codes that can't be billed with W6523
Neither code can be billed with the other
AXA Health also lists these codes as unacceptable combinations (7)
- W6703: Secondary open reduction of dislocation of large joint
- W9240: Examination/ manipulation of joint under general anaesthetic +/- injection +/- arthrogram (as sole procedure)
- W9030: Injection(s) +/- aspiration, into joint, cyst, bursa with image guidance - unilateral
- W9020: Dynamic arthrogram of joint
- W6522: Primary open reduction of dislocation of small joint
- W9040: Injection(s) +/- aspiration, into joint, cyst, bursa - unilateral
- W9112: Manipulation of joint (including intra-articular injection) for Frozen Shoulder" (as sole procedure)"
Related codes
- W6703: Secondary open reduction of dislocation of large joint
- W6522: Primary open reduction of dislocation of small joint
- W6702: Secondary open reduction of dislocation of small 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 large joint?
The procedure code is W6523: Primary open reduction of dislocation of large joint.
Which insurers list W6523?
W6523 is listed by Bupa, AXA Health, Vitality and WPA. Always confirm the code and cover with your insurer.
Can W6523 be billed with other procedures?
The coding rules say W6523 cannot be billed together with 4 other codes, including W6703 (Secondary open reduction of dislocation of large joint), W6522 (Primary 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