Objective To explore the effect of applying problem-based learning (PBL) combined with medical simulation teaching based on human models in the teaching of wound repair for resident physicians. Methods The experimental control method was used. From January to December 2022, 60 trainees undergoing standardized residency training at the First Medical Center of the People′s Liberation Army General Hospital were enrolled. They were randomly divided into an experimental group and a control group using a random number table method. The experimental group used PBL combined with simulation teaching method based on human body model, while the control group used traditional teaching combined with simulation teaching method based on human body model. After a 2-month wound repair teaching, the teaching effectiveness was evaluated based on assessment scores and questionnaire survey results, and relevant data was analyzed using a chi square test and t-test. Results There was no statistically significant difference in the theoretical exam scores of the two groups of trainees using skin flaps to repair wounds [(88.3 ± 5.1) vs. (87.9 ± 4.7), P=0.726]. The practical exam scores of the experimental group were higher than those of the control group, and the difference was statistically significant [(92.6 ± 5.1) vs. (80.4 ± 6.2), P=0.012]. The results of the questionnaire survey showed that the combination of PBL and simulation teaching based on human models was able to stimulate trainees′ learning interest, improve their self-learning ability, enhance their clinical application ability of skin flap design, master clinical skills, and cultivate innovation ability. The proportion of trainees in the experimental group who agree with it were higher than those of the control group [86.7% (26/30) vs.60.0% (18/30),90.0% (27/30 ) vs.50.0% (15/30),96.7% (29/30) vs.63.3% (19/30),90.0% (27/30) vs.50.0% (15/30) ], and the differences were statistically significant (all P<0.05). Conclusions The combination of PBL and medical simulation teaching based on human models helped improve the clinical practice ability of students to apply skin flaps in a short period of time, and was recognized by resident trainees, achieving the training goal of rapidly improving students′ ability to use skin flaps to repair wounds.