Sano's capillary pattern classification for narrow-band imaging of early colorectal lesions

Narrow-band imaging enhances visualization of the mucosal surface structure and vascular network and helps to increase the visibility of neoplasia by improving contrast. Sano and his colleagues first reported its efficacy for endoscopic use in the gastrointestinal tract and later proposed a sequential classification of the mucosal vascular network patterns according to histopathological categories. Sano's 'capillary pattern classification' was established to facilitate diagnosis of early colorectal lesions on a step-by-step basis. This review focuses on the utility and effectiveness of Sano's capillary pattern classification when examining early colorectal lesions using narrow-band imaging.