[Experience with the extracapsular extraction of cataracts in a community facility]

The author discusses briefly the advantages and disadvantages of planned extracapsular extraction of cataract which in conjunction with implantations of retropupillary intraocular lenses had its renaissance in recent years. If precise microsurgical procedures are used, the functional results can be very good with a low incidence of peroperative and postoperative complications, in particular in risk eyes. The author describes the procedure at the author's department, using a simple and safe aspiration and irrigation system which is described. The author gives the main indications and contraindications for operation as well as the most serious complications. Based on experience with 70 operations, the author recommends his simple aspiration-irrigation equipment for departments which do not have the opportunity to use some special imported apparatus.