The metastasis of liver cancer lymph nodes is influenced by many factors. Generally speaking, the size of the primary lesion is closely related to local lymph node metastasis, and those with larger tumors have a higher chance of lymph node metastasis. Tumors with low degree of differentiation and incomplete envelope have a higher chance of local lymph node metastasis. The rate of lymph node invasion was higher in cholangiocarcinoma and metastatic liver cancer than in primary hepatocellular carcinoma. Cases with multiple sets of lymph node metastases are more likely to be advanced and to have combined intrahepatic vascular and bile duct invasion. Studies have shown that lymph node metastasis has a significant impact on the prognosis of patients with hepatocellular carcinoma. Surgical resection is the main treatment for lymph node metastasis in hepatocellular carcinoma, but the results of surgical treatment are not satisfactory. For patients with single lymph node metastasis, lymph node dissection along with hepatocellular carcinoma resection can prolong survival. For patients with multiple lymph node metastases, even if liver resection and regional lymph node dissection are performed, the prognosis is still poor. Comprehensive treatment can play a role in improving the long-term outcome. Preoperative imaging and intraoperative exploration to determine the presence and number of lymph node metastases are crucial to the selection of surgical treatment plan.