IRCAD was founded in 1994 within the premises of Strasbourg's University Hospital. It brings together fundamental research laboratories focused on the treatment of digestive tract cancers, as well as R&D units in computer science and robotics that design and develop tools for diagnosis, surgical planning, and simulation aimed at improving and making surgical procedures safer.
IRCAD’s research orientation has always been directed towards the development of less invasive surgical techniques. Every year, more than 8,800 surgeons from all over the world are trained by the best international experts. The IRCAD has made it possible for surgeons from the entire world to obtain high-level skills.
Since its creation, the institute has gained world-renowned fame as a leading research and education institute. Its international success has led to the construction of twin institutes in Taiwan, Brazil (Barretos and Rio de Janeiro), Africa, China and USA.