| Absolute |
| 1. Loculation or obliteration of the pleural space, as may be seen in cases of adhesions between the visceral and parietal pleura, or adhesions between lung and chest wall |
| 2. Severe respiratory distress |
| 3. Uncontrollable cough, that makes entry in to the pleural space and maneuverability of the thoracoscope hard |
| 4. Severe uncorrectable coagulopathy |
| 5. Limited cardiopulmonary reserves that might make it difficult for the patient to tolerate pneumothorax |
| 6. Lack of multi-disciplinary collaboration with cardiothoracic surgery |
| 7. Inability to tolerate sedation |
| 8. Lack of informed consent |
| Relative |
| 1. Acute coronary syndrome or cerebrovascular accident in the preceding 6 weeks |
| 2. Morbid obesity |
| 3. Bleeding diathesis |
| 4. Moderate to severe sleep apnea |
