[The current anesthetic practice in the United Kingdom]

In the current anesthetic practice in the United Kingdom (UK), there are some unique characteristics that are not necessarily familiar to the Japanese anesthesiologists. The author has obtained first-hand experience in anesthesia in the UK as a qualified anesthetist through the fellowship program between the Royal College of Anaesthetists and the Japanese Society of Anesthesiologists. The major differences in the UK anesthetic practice from its Japanese counterpart include dissimilarity in the use of drugs, the existence of "anaesthetic rooms", the expertise of perfusionists and operating department practitioners, and excellent systematic support from hospital professionals such as statisticians and graphics experts. Although the UK anesthetic practice may not be perfect, it certainly provides practical wisdom that may be useful for Japanese anesthesiologists.