Objective To investigate the value of micro iris hooks in small pupils during phacoemulsification.Methods The maximum pupil diameter was smaller than 4.0mm after frequent use of mydriatics and non-steroid anti-inflammatory drugs in 17 eyes. A comprehensive strategy, including micro iris hooks as the major adjunct and viscoelastic and mini-sphincterotomies and mechanical stretching technique as the secondary adjunct, was employed to dilate the pupils and to achieve uneventful procedures. The pupils presented