ObjectiveTo compare the influence of different cataract extraction on astigmatism and recovery of vision function.To explore the possibility in establishment of a method of cataract operation capable of recovering normal visual acuity rapidly at the early stage of postoperation. Methods298 eyes with senile cataract were divided into 4 groups:phacoemulsification with silicone foldable intraocular lens(IOL) implantation group (phacoemulsificationⅠ),phacoemulsification with one-piece IOL implantation group (phacoemulsificationⅡ), small incision cataract extraction with one-piece IOL implantation group (small incision) and extracapsular cataract extraction with one-piece IOL implantation group (ECCE). ResultsThe average uncorrect visual acuity of phacoemulsification Ⅰ group was significantly better than that of other groups 3 d and 1 week after the operation(P 0.05).No difference was found in the average uncorrect visual acuities among phacoemulsification Ⅰ group, phacoemulsification Ⅱ group and small incision group 1 month and 3 month after operation,while notable difference was seen between these three groups and that of ECCE group(P 0.05). The mean postoperative astgmatism of phacoemulsification Ⅰ group was significantly less than that of other groups 1 week and 1 month after operation (P 0.05).The mean postoperative astgmatism of phacoemulsification Ⅰ group was not significantly different from that of phacoemulsification Ⅱ group and small incision group 3 month after the operation(P 0.05),which was different from that of ECCE group(P 0.05). ConclusionThe phacoemulsification with foldable intraocular lens implantation was the best method in rehabilitating visual acuity and stabilizing the refractive situation at the early stage of postoperation.