Objective: To investigate the efficacy of decision tree incorporated with indocyanine green clearance test on hepatic reserve function in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma. Methods:Eighty-two patients with hepatocellular carcinoma confirmed by pathology were enrolled. The presence of ascites, serum bilirubin level and indocyanine green retention rate at 15 minutes were elevated. Results:During strict application of this decision tree to 82 hepatectomies,no postoperative mortality(overall morbidity of 0%) and no major complications were observed. Conclusion:The decision tree can provide more precise information of liver function so as to avoid liver failure of patients with hepatocellular carcinoma.