The pneumatic lithotriptor functions as a pneumatic jackhammer, providing either a single pulse or a train of pulses at 2Hz as determined by the operator. Its chief advantage is its ability to fragment even the hardest calculi. The pneumatic lithotriptor, while extremely effective, does not utilize thermal energy and therefore has no risk of thermal damage to the surrounding tissue. The pneumatic lithotriptor currently in use, the Swiss LithoClast is powered by compressed medical air. The primary disadvantage of this device is that the residual calculi must be individually removed with forceps following fragmentation.