AIM:To study the effection of EDTA on lens epithelial cells removal.METHODS:Thirty-two anterior lens capsules were collected in phacoemulsification,then randomly divided into 4 groups.Anterior lens capsules were digested with 5mmol/L,10mmol/L,20mmol/L EDTA and saline.Clearance situation of lens epithelial cells were observed.RESULTS:Epithelial cells could be completely detached from the anterior lens capsule by 20mmol/L EDTA solution treatment,some epithelial cells shed by the 5mmol/L and 10mmol/L EDTA solution treatment.In the control group only a small amount of epithelial cells shed.CONCLUSION:EDTA can remove the epithelial cells of anterior lens capsule.It can afford experimental and theoretical basis for clinical application of EDTA to remove the lens epithelial cells and prevent posterior capsular opacification(PCO).