In the ‘ESASO Course Series’, the essentials of the courses of the European School for Advanced Studies in Ophthalmology (ESASO) are made available in print. The topics of this volume on cataract surgery range from prevention to state-of-the-art diagnostic techniques and the latest surgical treatment options for many eye conditions such as diabetic retinopathy or rhegmatogenous retinal detachment. Useful basics, surgical principles, challenging cases, as well as the most advanced femtosecond assisted cataract surgeries are discussed. Different styles of intraocular lenses (IOL) such as phakic IOL in standard and special situations, or ‘iris claw’ IOLs are further presented. Renowned eye surgeons have contributed their knowledge to make this volume a device to give practical support to specialists as well as trainees in cataract and refractive surgery.