Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the leading causes of cancer death. There is a high risk of recurrence and metastasis after surgery. Anesthesia methods, anesthesia-related drugs and intraoperative anesthesia management can affect the biological behavior of HCC cells or the body's immunity, thus affecting the recurrence and metastasis of HCC. Paying attention to the effect of anesthesia on recurrence and metastasis of HCC and optimizing anesthesia management are expected to improve the long-term survival of patients.