Three-Part Segmental Notation for Congenital Heart Disease

A practical radiology review of Three-Part Segmental Notation for Congenital Heart Disease, focused on imaging findings, differential diagnosis, reporting points, and high-yield teaching pearls.

Concept Overview

• Systematic way to describe congenital heart anatomy
• Uses Van Praagh 3-part notation → {,, }

1. Visceroatrial situs (atrial sidedness & organ position)

2. Ventricular loop orientation (embryologic folding)

3. Great vessel position & relation

• Radiologists use this to structure cardiac interpretation (Echo, CT, MRI) and communicate precisely.

The Three-Part Code Explained

• Example: {S, D, S} = Normal
• Situs solitus (S): RA + liver right, LA + stomach + spleen left