["Computer- and Sensor-Assisted Surgery" Special Research Area 414--goals and concepts].

This paper presents an overview of our research in computer assisted surgery within the "Sonderforschungsbereich 414--Information Technology in Medicine: Computer and Sensor Supported Surgery". The overall goal is to achieve improved operation methods including higher quality, more safety and also more economy due to shorter operation time and less postoperative treatment. The SFB 414 is divided into three different sections focusing on projects concerning the heart, projects supporting cranio-facial interventions and interconnecting projects that serve both categories.