[Principles of technology assessment in surgical diagnosis]

Principles of technology assessment in surgical diagnostics comprise definitions, criteria for measurement and methods of measurement. Technology assessment is part of a general health policy and has to be represented by experts of specific disciplines, in this case by surgeons. Contradictory criteria for technology assessment in various fields warn the surgeons of the necessity of developing specific objectives. The concept of surgical diagnostics includes aids for decision making, strategies and surgical techniques. It is therefore an integral part of surgical care.