Objective To study the diagnosis and treatment of primary liver cancer(PLC) with bile duct cancer thrombus (BDT). Methods The clinical data of 21 patients with PLC and BDT admitted in the past 8 years were analyzed retrospectively . Results The major clinical manifestations were the symptoms of primary liver cancer and obstructive jaundice. The correct diagnosis rate was 76.2% before operation. The diagnosis rate of B-us, CT, MRI, ERCP and PTC was 14.3%, 9.52%, 14.3%, 71.4% and 100% respectively. The operative procedures included hepatectomy with removal of BDT ( n =10), hepatectomy combined with extrahepatic bile duct resection ( n =5), thrombectomy through choledochotomy with TACE ( n =3), removal of BDT with HAI ( n =3). The 3,5-year survival rate were 43.20% and 24.60% respectively. Conclusions Multi-examinations should be applied in the diagnosis of PLC with BDT. The comprehensive therapy including surgery and other therapies must be adoptted for PLC with BDT.