Objective To evaluate the feasibility and significance of problem-based learning (PBL) in orthopedic internship. Methods A total of 315 students in grade 2002 were involved in PBL during their internship in the Department of Orthopedics at the First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China. Teaching effectiveness was evaluated with a questionnaire and an ability examination. The results of PBL teaching during different semesters were compared, and the feasibil ity and significance of PBL were analyzed. Results Students who participated in PBL were in a dominant position and were more active in the learning process. The PBL pattern could improve students’ ability to identify, analyze and solve problems, and also contribute to fostering and enhancing their clinical thinking. This could help them solve the problems that emerged from the theory curriculum.Conclusions The PBL pattern used in the orthopedics internship has advantages and practical significance, which are applicable in modern medical teaching practice.