Background Phacoemulsification yields successful outcomes in eyes with standard cataract. Though techniques have been improved, it is still challenging to perform phacoemulsification in cases of hard cataracts for difficulty in nuclear management and much more complications. This study aimed at describing and evaluating the efficacy and safety of a peripheral radial chop technique to remove hard cataracts.Methods In this prospective study conducted between January 2003 and January 2004, 107 consecutive eyes with hard cataract underwent modified phacoemulsification surgery with peripheral radial chop technique by the Bausch & Lomb Millennium phacoemulsifier with preset parameters of power less than 30%; vaccum, 150 mmHg; and bottle height,85 cm when a DP8145 phaco tip was used, and vaccum, 380 mmHg; bottle height, 95 cm when a DP8245 phaco tip was used.Results The mean ultrasonic power was 14.7% (range 9% to 19%), ultrasonic time was 1.98 minutes (range 1.55 to 3.18 minutes). At 1, 7 and 30 days postoperatively, the eyes with uncorrected visual acuity 0.5 or better accounted for 76.42%, 87.16% and 90.67% respectively. At 1 month, the endothelial cell loss rate was 9.74% (range 8% to 17%). There were 6 cases of posterior capsule rupture in an early period of study. No serious intraoperative or postoperative complications were noted.Conclusions The peripheral radial chop technique was effective without serious complications in hands of an experienced surgeon.