AIM:To observe the changes of the intraocular pressure (IOP) and the central anterior chamber depth (ACD) after phacoemulsification in eyes with primary angle-closure glucoma, and to analyze the therapeutic efficacy. METHODS:In this prospective clinical self control study, 37 cases (49 eyes) of primary angle-closure glucoma were performed phacoemulsification and IOL implantation, of which 23 eyes underwent combined trabeculectomy. All eyes with an attack history of glaucoma underwent combined goniosychialysis.The visual acuity,IOP,ACD and anterior chamber angle were observed postoperatively. All cases were followed up for 3 months to 2 years. RESULTS: Their visual acuity improved in 47 eyes postoperatively, the best-corrected visual acuity was 0.5 or better in 35 eyes (71%).The mean IOP was significantly decreased (P＜0.01), the mean ACD was significantly increased (P＜0.01), and the anterior chamber angles were wider postoperatively. In 47 eyes the long-term IOP were controlled.The IOP increased again in 2 eyes postoperative 1 month, They were patients with chronic angle-closure glucome at the late stage who accepted surgory under high IOP. CONCLUSION:Phacoemulsification and folding IOL implantation is effective and safe in patients with primary angle-closure glucoma.It could decrease the IOP, increase ACD and widen anterior chamber angles significantly. However, patients with angle closure and synechia range ≥ 180° should also undergo trabeculectomy.