The Israeli company Simbionix, the global leader in 3D virtual-reality surgical simulation and training, is being acquired by South Carolina-based 3D Systems for $120 million.

Simbionix is headquartered in Cleveland, Ohio, with a research-and-development center in Israel. The company’s products are used in simulation centers, hospitals, colleges and other educational facilities in more than 60 countries.

“Simbionix is a perfect match for our healthcare business and its powerful technology, products, channels and domain expertise expands our 3D healthcare capabilities from the training room to the operating room, and extends our first mover advantage in this fast-growing vertical,” said 3DS President and CEO Avi Reichental.

Simbionix pioneered patient-specific simulation with FDA-cleared solutions that are changing the way physicians prepare for individual surgeries. Its proprietary simulation and training products – reaching across eight medical specialties through 16 simulation platforms — are considered revolutionary and responsible for favorably impacting patient outcomes.

“3D Systems is the recognized 3D healthcare leader and they have an exceptional track record of commercially deploying innovative virtual surgery and medical device products and services,” said Simbionix CEO Gary Zamler. “We couldn’t be more excited to join this fine organization and look forward to accelerate our growth by enhancing the entire 3D digital thread for the benefit of our customers worldwide.”

Simbionix will continue operating under Zamler’s leadership as he becomes vice president and general manager, Simbionix Products for 3DS.