IRCAD North America and PENTAX Medical Partner to Further Surgical Education and Innovation

Collaboration brings next-generation endoscopic technologies to world-class surgical training institute at The Pearl innovation district

PENTAX Medical, a global leader in endoscopic imaging, has partnered with IRCAD North America (IRCAD NA). This collaboration will deliver advanced endoscopic technologies and expertise to IRCAD NA, the new research and experiential education center at The Pearl innovation district located in Charlotte, North Carolina. This multi-year partnership is poised to elevate surgical training and research, with the shared goal of improving clinical outcomes and raising the standard of patient care globally.

The combined efforts of PENTAX Medical and IRCAD NA will establish a dynamic training environment, providing hands-on experience with cutting-edge innovations in endoscopy and minimally invasive surgery. Leveraging PENTAX Medical’s technology, IRCAD NA will offer expanded educational programs for thousands of surgeons and health care professionals worldwide each year.

PENTAX Medical will supply state-of-the-art imaging systems and endoscopic devices, supporting both training and research at IRCAD NA. The partnership also includes collaborative development of educational modules and specialized on-site training.

“Our partnership with IRCAD North America marks a defining moment for PENTAX Medical in the Americas as we step into this space with purpose. At the heart of this collaboration is a shared commitment to building a community rooted in connection, support, and innovation. By integrating our advanced endoscopic technologies into IRCAD’s immersive training programs, we’re not only empowering healthcare professionals—we’re leading the way in shaping the future of minimally invasive care. Together, we’re driving meaningful improvements in patient outcomes and setting a new standard for surgical education across the region,” said Cat Pereira-Sanders, Chief Commercial Officer at PENTAX Medical, Americas.

“Our partnership with PENTAX Medical opens new horizons for medical education at IRCAD North America,” said Dr. Dionisios Vrochides, executive director of IRCAD North America and professor of transplant surgery at Wake Forest University School of Medicine. “Incorporating next-generation flexible endoscopic platforms with integrated AI solutions means our curriculum can drive meaningful advancements in surgical outcomes and patient care.”

Founded in 1994 in Strasbourg, France, IRCAD is recognized internationally for surgical training excellence, with centers in Brazil, China, France, India, Lebanon, Rwanda, Taiwan, and now the United States. IRCAD NA will serve as the exclusive North American headquarters of IRCAD and anchor the first research building at The Pearl, Atrium Health’s innovation district. Courses will span general surgery, cardiovascular and thoracic surgery, neurosurgery, and orthopedic surgery, emphasizing advanced endoscopic and minimally invasive techniques.

“At IRCAD North America, our mission is to advance medical innovation and shape the future of patient care,” shared Dr. Rasu Shrestha, EVP & chief innovation and commercialization officer at Advocate Health and president of the Board at IRCAD North America. “Partnering with PENTAX Medical marks a significant step in bringing transformative technologies and hands-on surgical education to Charlotte and beyond. Together, we are empowering clinicians with the latest tools and knowledge, driving excellence in outcomes for communities globally.”

By uniting IRCAD NA’s surgical education expertise with PENTAX Medical’s technology, this partnership aims to accelerate the adoption of advanced surgical and endoscopic techniques and inspire a new generation of medical professionals.

About IRCAD North America

IRCAD North America is a state-of-the-art surgical training and research center dedicated to advancing minimally invasive and robotic surgery. As the newest branch of the globally renowned IRCAD network, we bring world-class expertise, innovative technology, and hands-on training to surgeons and health care professionals across the world. Our strategic collaborations with leading industry partners, institutions, and professional societies drive meaningful advancements in health care, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. We will shape the future of surgery.

IRCAD North America is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization and wholly owned subsidiary of Atrium Health, a part of Advocate Health. The institute is located at The Pearl innovation district in Charlotte, N.C. IRCAD North America empowers local, national, and international investigators to perform and excel in rapid cycle research and development, minimizing the time medical innovation takes to move from bench to bedside. Patient outcomes will improve worldwide as our attendees take their experiences back to their home institutions. To learn more, visit our website and follow us on LinkedIn.