Suspensive hyphens
Standalone prefix
In common American grammar and usage, there is an acceptance of the use of a standalone prefix with a hyphen when an alternative unhyphenated prefix follows. However, the AMA Style Guide (and therefore the AHDI Book of Style) take exception (see below). Please consult with the facility or your employer to determine which applies.
We performed both pre- and postoperative examinations.
Study subjects were categorized as hyper- or hypotensive.
The patient was advised this could be either an in- or an outpatient procedure.
Standalone prefix exception
According to the AMA Style Guide, for JAMA and Archives Journals, the usage described above is not acceptable. The AHDI Book of Style 3rd Ed. follows the AMA Style Guide.
We performed both preoperative and postoperative examinations.
Study subjects were categorized as hypertensive or hypotensive.
The patient was advised this could be either an inpatient or an outpatient procedure.
Incomplete modifiers with a common last word
Use suspensive hyphens in a series of 2 or more hyphenated compounds that have a common last word.
The patient has a 2- to 4-year history
The patient had full- and split-thickness grafts
The study was conducted with 10- to 15-year-old boys
In unhyphenated compounds written as 1 word, do not use a hyphen.
The anterolateral and posterolateral aspects were examined.
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