Early detection of ischemic injury, though difficult to achieve is becoming increasingly critical to the proper utilization of new therapeutic intervention. Experts note that although Magnetic Resonance angiography provides flow information and can image the blockage structure, the method cannot characterize tissue damage. Rockland Technimed's patented Tissue Viability Imaging Agent provides the missing link and critical test in assessing the quality and function of the underlying tissue. It can differentiate between reversible or irreversible tissue injury. It provides the measurement of Oxygen Extraction Fraction/Rate which is only possible using PET/CT with radioisotopes today.

The new patented technology is based on the normal process of cellular regeneration of adenosine triphosphate with concomitant conversion of oxygen to water. Oxy-17® is formulated using a stable, non radioactive isotope of Oxygen, can be used to detect hypoxic, but still viable tissue. After Oxy-17® is absorbed by the cell and converted to water it perturbs the proton signal and creates a negative contrast on the MRI. Each injury zone has a different rate of oxygen uptake so each zone can be differentiated using MRI. Oxygen-starved hypoxic tissue consumes a larger percentage of oxygen than normal tissue while nonviable (necrotic) tissue will not take up the Oxy-17 and will not produce any water with it. It is like an early warning radar of tissue injury.