AIM:To explore clinical effects of the non-phacoemulsification small incision extracapsular cataract extraction and intraocular lens implantation in the treatment of senile cataract.METHODS:Forty eyes of 40 cases with senile cataract were treated with scleral tunnel incision extracapsular cataract extraction,and posterior chamber intraocular lens implantation. Postoperative visual acuity,astigmatism and complications were observed.RESULTS:With follow-up of 1-36 months,naked eye,or corrected vision was ﹤0.5 in 1 case (2.5%),0.6-1.0 in 18 cases (45.0%),1.2-1.5 in 21 cases (52.5%). 1 month and 3 months before and after operation,mean astigmatism was (0.90±0.81) D,(0.95±0.65) D and (0.93±0.60) D respectively and compared with the preoperative data,mean astigmatism 1 month and 3 months after operation had no significant difference (P>0.05). The major complications are corneal edema,anterior chamber inflammation. No nuclear expulsion difficulties,posterior capsule rupture,vitreous prolapse,intraocular lens implantation failure or complications such as iris damage occurred.CONCLUSION:Small incision non-phacoemulsification extracapsular cataract extraction and intraocular lens implantation need simple equipment and operation is easy to master.With small incision,less trauma,good restored visual acuity,small corneal astigmatism and few complications,it’s effective,safe,reliable,affordable and suitable for primary hospital.