AIM: To explore a simple method to prevent posterior capsular opacification(PCO)after phacoemulsification in youth.

METHODS:Phacoemulsification combined with intraocular lens(IOL)implantation was performed 1 months earlier than Nd:YAG laser posterior capsulotomy.

RESULTS: In the observation group of 21 eyes, there was no PCO in 18 eyes after 3 years. In the control group of 20, PCO occurred in 12 eyes after 3 years. In comparison to the control group and observation group after 3 years, Z=-3.04, P=0.002, the difference between the two groups was statistically significant.

CONCLUSION:Nd:YAG laser posterior capsulotomy can effectively prevent PCO after phacoemulsification in youth.