AIM: To investigate the effectiveness of phacoemulsification with intraocular lens(IOL)implantation combined with trabeculectomy in patients with cataract and angle-closure glaucoma.

METHODS: In 36 cases(46 eyes)of angle-closure glaucoma with cataract, phacoemulsification with foldable IOL implantation combined with trabeculectomy was performed. Data of pre- and post-operation, including visual acuity, intraocular pressure, filtering bleb, anterior chamber depth, chamber angle, and funds were all recorded and analyzed in detail.

RESULTS: During the follow-up of 3 months to 2 years,visual acuity of 43 eyes(93.5%)got improved, and intraocular pressure in 44 eyes(95.7%)were controlled in normal range(<21mmHg). Mean anterior chamber depth of 35 patients(46 eyes)got deeper from 2.1mm to 3.8mm(average 2.1±0.3mm to 3.8±0.4mm)after operation, with chamber angle opened to some extent. Six eyes(13.0%)got mild to moderate corneal edema, without corneal endothelial decompensation.

CONCLUSION: Phacoemulsification with IOL implantation combined with trabeculectomy is an effective and safe surgical technique for patients with angle-closure glaucoma and cataract, with satisfied control of intraocular pressure, deepening of anterior chamber, opening of anterior chamber angle, and improving visual function.