W8170: Biodegradable subacromial spacer insertion for rotator cuff tears
For guidance only. Always check the code and obtain authorisation from your insurer before treatment. Other insurers may use different codes and coding rules.
Also known as
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 | Not listed | Not on the AXA Health procedure list |
| Vitality | Not routinely covered | Not routinely covered by Vitality |
| WPA | Check cover | Listed by WPA: check cover at pre-authorisation |
Codes that can't be billed with W8170
Neither code can be billed with the other
Related codes
- T7982: Arthroscopic subacromial decompression and rotator cuff repair (including arthroscopic procedures in glenohumeral joint)
- W7717: Open superior capsule reconstruction for irreparable rotator cuff tears +/- decompression (including graft)
- W7716: Arthroscopic superior capsule reconstruction for irreparable rotator cuff tears +/- decompression (including graft)
- T7918: Arthroscopic rotator cuff repair using a biodegradable collagen based scaffold
- T7910: Open subacromial decompression and rotator cuff repair +/- excision of distal clavicle
- T7915: Arthroscopic rotator cuff repair greater than 2cm
Frequently asked questions
What is the procedure code for biodegradable subacromial spacer insertion for rotator cuff tears?
The procedure code is W8170: Biodegradable subacromial spacer insertion for rotator cuff tears.
Which insurers list W8170?
W8170 is listed by Bupa. WPA lists it, but you should check cover before treatment. Vitality does not routinely cover it. It is not on the AXA Health procedure list. Always confirm the code and cover with your insurer.
Can W8170 be billed with other procedures?
The coding rules say W8170 cannot be billed together with 1 other code, including T7918 (Arthroscopic rotator cuff repair using a biodegradable collagen based scaffold). 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