Objective To explore the application value of three-dimensional visual (3DV) assessment and virtual reality (VR) study of type Ⅲ and Ⅳ hilar cholangiocarcinoma with portal vein as the axis.Methods The CT image data of 10 patients who were diagnosed as Bismuth type Ⅲ and Ⅳ hilar cholangiocarcinoma by B-ultrasound and CT in Zhujiang Hospital,Southern Medical University were imported into 3D visualization system (3DVS) for 3D image reconstruction,and the portal vein was used as the axis for 3DV analysis and evaluation.The 3D data were then imported into the VR development engine to perform VR research,so as to help the operation planning.Both of the image data were taken into the operation room for intraoperative navigation.Results 10 patients completed 3D visualization reconstruction and VR model transformation.According to the 3D visualization of hepatic hilar hepatocarcinoma,there were 1 case of type Ⅱ,2 cases of type Ⅲa,5 cases of type Ⅲb,1 case of type Ⅳa and 1 case of type Ⅳb.The portal vein was classified according to Cheng type:6 cases of type Ⅰ,3 cases of type Ⅱ,and 1 case of type Ⅲ.The hepatic artery was classified according to Michels type:5 cases of type Ⅰ,1 case of type Ⅱ,3 cases of type Ⅲ,and 1 case of type Ⅸ.The 3DV assessment and VR study were almost consistent with the intraoperative findings.No liver failure or death occurred during the perioperative period.Conclusion The 3DV assessment and VR study with the portal vein as the axis have potential application for the surgical treatment of type Ⅲ and Ⅳ hilar cholangiocarcinoma.