Background The aim of this study was to create a patient-derived slice model by combining cryopreservation technique with precision-cut slice culture method and explore its effectivity of predicting anti-cancer drug sensitivity in vitro. Methods We prepared 0.3 mm thick tissue slices by a microtome and maintain its cell viability by cryopreservation technique. Slices were cultured individually in the presence or absence of regorafenib (REG) for 72 hours. Alterations in morphology and gene expression was assessed by histological and genetic analysis. Overall viability was also analyzed in tissue slices by CCK-8 quantification assay and fluorescent staining. Tissue morphology and cell viability could be evaluated to quantify drug effects. Results Histological and genetic analysis showed that no significant alterations in morphology and gene expression were induced by vitrification‑based cryopreservation. The viability of warmed HCC tissues was up to 90% of the fresh tissues. The viability and proliferation could be retained for at least four days in filter culture system. The positive drug responses in precision-cut slice culture in vitro were evaluated by tissue morphology and cell viability. Conclusions In summary, the successful application of precision-cut HCC slice culture combining cryopreservation technique in a systematic drug screen demonstrates the feasibility and utility of slice culture method for drug response.