Systemic paediatrics mnemonic

Acyanotic left-to-right shunts

The mnemonic

VSD ASD PDA

What each word stands for

  • VSDVentricular septal defect
  • ASDAtrial septal defect
  • PDAPatent ductus arteriosus

Why it matters clinically

Left-to-right shunts increase pulmonary flow and can lead to Eisenmenger syndrome.

Where it stops being reliable

Atrioventricular septal defect is another shunt not captured.

Teaching aid, still awaiting independent review. Confirm facts in a standard source.

More mnemonics

Common questions

What is the Systemic paediatrics mnemonic?

VSD ASD PDA. It helps you recall: Acyanotic left-to-right shunts.

What does "VSD" stand for?

Ventricular septal defect

What does "ASD" stand for?

Atrial septal defect

What does "PDA" stand for?

Patent ductus arteriosus

What are all the parts of the VSD ASD PDA mnemonic?

VSD: Ventricular septal defect; ASD: Atrial septal defect; PDA: Patent ductus arteriosus.

Which topic does this mnemonic belong to?

It belongs to Systemic paediatrics in Pediatrics.

Where does this mnemonic stop being reliable?

Atrioventricular septal defect is another shunt not captured.

How is this useful clinically?

Left-to-right shunts increase pulmonary flow and can lead to Eisenmenger syndrome.

How do I make this mnemonic stick?

Say it aloud, write it from memory tomorrow, then again in a week. Then test yourself on a Pediatrics question about Systemic paediatrics.

Is this a standard mnemonic?

It is a teaching aid written or adapted by our team. Some resemble ones students share informally. Check any fact that matters in a standard source.