AIM: To observe the relationship between axial length and complications of phacoemulsification with intraocular lens(IOL)implantation in high axial myopia eyes and normal axis eyes.

METHODS: A retrospective review of 843 consecutive patients(1 042 eyes)of cataract extraction with phacoemulsification and IOL implantation in our hospital from February 2012 to February 2013 was performed. The patients were divided into two groups according to the axial length: 853 eyes were in normal axis group(21-24mm)and 189 eyes were in high axial myopia group(≥26mm). The two groups were compared regarding surgical complications, such as vitreous loss, posterior capsular rupture, nucleolus drop, and abnormal location of IOL.

RESULTS: Age was a risk factor in both groups. There was positive correlation between age and surgical complications, and between axial length and surgical complications, especially for complications with posterior capsular rupture and vitreous loss.

CONCLUSION: As the results illustrate, in this survey, age and high axial lengthare statistically significant risk factors for incidence of complications of phacoemulsification. Anticipation of these complications and also preparation and prophylactic measures may decrease incidence of these complications.