The field of hepatic surgery experienced significant developments during the latter part of the twentieth century, including the recognition of liver transplantation as an established specialty of surgical practice and the rapid expansion of complex liver resections. Since then, both transplantation and resection have played a crucial role in oncologic surgery, especially in the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). HCC is a driver of morbidity and mortality in patients with liver disease, especially in patients with pre-existing liver disease where HCC is most prevalent. Significant strides have been made in the diagnosis and treatment of HCC in recent years, such as the development of stratification algorithms for patients who benefit from minor or major resection, locoregional therapies, and refinements on the criteria for liver transplantation. Still, future studies are needed to continue to elucidate the complexities of this disease and how to further improve the outcomes in patients affected by it.