AIM:To investigate the effectiveness of phacoemulsification for cataract extraction in the treatment of angle-closure glaucoma(ACG). METHODS:Totally 16 cases(18 eyes)of acute ACG which had cataract and closed range of anterior chamber angle smaller than 180° received small incision cataract surgery with intraocular lens (IOL) implantation alone.Postoperative intraocular pressure (IOP), depth of anterior chamber,width of anterior chamber angle and visual acuity were observed with 1-12 months follow-up. RESULTS:IOP of 18 eyes was all under the control of 20mmHg(1mmHg=0.133kPa) 1 week after operation and the anterior chamber angles became wider.Best-corrected visual acuity acquired increase in 17 eyes at different degrees.1 eye had no changes. There was no serious operation complication.During the follow-up time IOP of 17 eyes had no change compared to postoperative 1 month.Eyesight of 1 eye decreased because of fundus hemorrhage.The preoperative and postoperative IOP,anterior chamber depth and sight had statistically significant differences. CONCLUSION:With the proper selection of indications,the clinic effect of phacoemulsification for cataract extraction in the treatment of ACG was satisfactory.