AIM:To evaluate the clinical efficiency of extracapsular cataract extraction plus implantation of artificial lens for the treatment of patients with diabetes mellitus (DM) and cataract. METHODS:Eighty-seven (104 eyes) DM patients received phacoemulsification (Phaco) and small-incision cataract surgery (SICS) plus implantation of artificial lens. Best-corrected visual acuity and complications were observed. RESULTS:No posterior capsule rupture, intraocular hemorrhage and endophthalmitis were noted. Six patients were observed with severe corneal edema, and recovered after drug administration. CONCLUSION:Phaco and SICS plus implantation of artificial lens are efficient for the treatment of DM patients with cataract.