The application of light in biological tissues has received increasing attention. Due to their unique optical properties, structured light fields have significantly theoretical and practical values in tissue transmission. To investigate the mechanisms in detail, it is essential to establish comprehensive mathematical simulation models to mimic the transmission process, and also to conduct experiments to validate the simulation results. Combining with the latest research progress, this paper systematically reviews and analyese the transmission characteristics of structured light in biological tissues to provide theoretical support and practical reference for future research. The characteristics of biological tissues and the type of structured light are firstly introduced. Then, based on the classification of structured light as a starting point, the effects of frequency/wavelength, polarization, amplitude, phase, vortex structures, and coherent structures on the transmission of light in biological tissues are summarized. The latest research progress in this field is analyzed. Finally, some current research deficiencies and an outlook on future developments and directions in this field are provided.