One-capsule methods

Question

HelloA friend ask me which is of the following is correct:one-capsule methods or one capsule methodsI think they are both OK. But I have a feeling the first is better from a grammar point of view.Can anybody help me give him the right answerThanksPaul

Mister Micawber · Accepted Answer

Yes, use the first of the two.  However, I  think 'single-capsule method' is more natural.

Anonymous · Answer

Hi Thanks for your reply.

Can I just ask you one more point

It involves one capsule endoscope instead of 2, so would using 2 capsules be a double-capsule method with a hypen?or in that case would it be better to write, a method using 2 capsules?

Thanks and I very much appreciate your help

Paul

Mister Micawber · Answer

Double-capsule method seems fine to me, but if you are writing for laymen, perhaps it would be wiser to use method using 2 capsules.

JohnParis · Answer

It is important to distinguish between the act, "capsule endoscopy", and the device "a capsule endocsope."

John

Anonymous · Answer

Hi

Sorry to bother you again.

Sorry I've got a bit confiused by the act and device answer. Instead of using 2 separate capsules to examine the whole of the gut they use one, so would single-capsule method and double-capsule method still be OK?

Thanks again

Paul

JohnParis · Answer

Paul

I am concerned that you are not clear on what you are writing about. Capsule endoscopy is a technology that uses a swallowed video capsule to take photographs of the inside of the esophagus, stomach, and small intestine. A large capsule is swallowed by the patient. The capsule contains one or two video chips (cameras), a light bulb, a battery, and a radio transmitter. As the capsule travels through the esophagus, stomach, and small intestine, it takes photographs rapidly. The photographs are transmitted by the radio transmitter to a small receiver that is worn on the waist of the patient who is undergoing the capsule endoscopy. At the end of the procedure, approximately 24 hours later, the photographs are downloaded from the receiver into a computer, and the images are reviewed by a physician. The capsule is passed by the patient into the toilet and flushed away.

The cost of this exam varies from country to country, but it is extremely expensive. I have never heard the term "double capsule method" and I find it difficult for a physician to justify the diagnostic value of having a patient swallow two of these capsules when one is sufficent.

If you must use a term, use "single capsule method"and/or "double capsule method" but beware, they make little sense.

"Capsule endoscopy" says it all.

Anonymous · Answer

Hi John

It's not my area so thanks for your great explanation

Had a word with the guy I'm helping and he said that if your want to screen the whole of the gastrointestinal tract. You need to use 2 capsule endoscopes ( 1 for the upper part and one for the colon) because the batteries don't last long enough., due to their small size. But he's writing about just using one capsule for the whole of the gastrointedtinal tract and therefore wants to know if it's OK to describe it as a single-capsule method.

Does it (single-capsule method) make sense in the context I've just described?

Thanks again.

Paul

JohnParis · Answer

Yes it does, Paul.

Your usage is correct. "single capsule method for the entire gastrointestinal tract..." would be part of an excellent sentence.

This double-capsule endoscopy methodology that you speak of is something that has peaked my interest. I would consider it a great personal service if you would ask your friend for any links to literature involving this technique. I would be very interested in learning more about the technique and the device involved.

You may post your reply here or send it to me via my email (on my profile). As I said, I would consider this an immense service.

Yours sincerely,

John

One-capsule methods

Top answer

Get the Weekly English Kit 📬

Related Questions