AIM:To observe the safety and clinical effects of small-incision extracapsular cataract extraction(SIECCE)and intraocular lens(IOL)implantation for cataract patients on sight-regaining program.

METHODS:A total of 1 274 cases(1 274 eyes)of cataract patients of poverty received SIECCE and IOL implantation. Complications and postoperative visual acuity were recorded.

RESULTS:All patients received uneventful surgery. During surgery, 30 eyes(2.35%)had posterior capsule rupture, 240 eyes(18.84%)had corneal edema. Postoperative visual acuity >0.5 reached 85% in 1 week, the number reached 90% in 3 months.

CONCLUSION:SIECCE is effective and safe in sight-regaining program, which should be promoted.