Method and apparatus for therapeutic gas treatment

A handheld therapeutic apparatus for the delivery of therapeutic gases, the apparatus comprising:

• a valve system comprising a three-way valve with control pins for controlling the flow of gas through the valve system;
• a handle portion adapted to receive a gas source;
• a treatment receptacle portion;
• a nozzle portion;
• and
• a valve housing portion adapted to house the valve system and adapted to engage the treatment receptacle portion and the nozzle portion such that the receptacle treatment portion and nozzle portion are in fluid communication with the valve system.

A method of treating an area of an individual user with medical or therapeutic gases, the method compromising:

• a) assembling a handheld therapeutic apparatus, said therapeutic apparatus comprising:
• (i) a valve system comprising a three-way valve with control pins for controlling the flow of gas through the valve system;
• (ii) a handle portion adapted to a gas cartridge assembly;
• (iii) a treatment receptacle portion;
• (iv) a nozzle portion;
• and
• (v) a valve housing portion adapted to house the valve system and adapted to engage the treatment receptacle portion and the nozzle portion such that the receptacle treatment portion and nozzle portion are in fluid communication with the valve system;
• b) placing the gas cartridge assembly in the handle portion;
• c) attaching the handle portion to the valve housing such that a piercing pin pierces the gas cartridge allowing gas to flow from the gas cartridge through the valve system to the treatment receptacle portion and the nozzle portion;
• d) delivering the gas to the patient through the nozzle portion.