(NewsVisual, powered by IntellectSpace) -- In a deal that could have been propelled forward by virtue of a close set of personal connections between the two companies’ senior leadership teams, Kinetic Concepts Inc (NYSE:KCI) announced on Monday that it will acquire LifeCell Corporation (NASDAQ:LIFC) for $51.00 per share or $1.7 billion in cash.

The Boards of Directors of both companies have unanimously approved the transaction, KCI reported in its statement.

LifeCell, which creates tissue repair products for use in reconstructive, urogynecologic and orthopedic surgical procedures, will operate as a separate division within KCI.

“LifeCell is an exceptional strategic fit for us,” said KCI CEO/President Catherine Burzik in the company’s statement.

“The acquisition of LifeCell provides additional long-term growth opportunities, benefiting patients and physicians and delivering sustained value to our shareholders. The acquisition brings together two respected market leaders with well-established best-in-class technologies,” Ms Burzik added.

NewsVisual decided to create an IntellectSpace Knowledge Map in order to illustrate the personal connections between several of the Directors and Senior Executives at KCI and LifeCell.

The Knowledge Map shows that there are five separate sets of personal connections between the two companies.

The most prominent connection, however, is between KCI Chairman Ronald W Dollens and LifeCell Director Michael R Minogue. They are linked via Abiomed Inc (NASDEQ:ABMD), a company for which Mr Minogue is the current Chairman and for which Mr Dollens is a current Director.  They are also linked via the biotechnology trade group the Advanced Medical Technology Association.