How to create effective PBL cases in oral and maxillofacial surgery.

Problem-based learning (PBL) is a widely accepted educational format centered on the discussion and learning that emanates from a clinically-based problem. Appropriate cases are key factors to ensure the successful implementation of PBL for medical students. Little is reported in PBL case-writing in the literature. This paper describes the design and principles of writing a PBL case based on a clinical problem (ameloblastoma of the jaw), which is intended to provide a learning focus for undergraduate dental students throughout the system-specific blocks. A good PBL case should allow for progressive, interdependent actions to be taken in the evaluation and ultimate management of the patient in the context, and trigger enquiry and discussion from the students in the aspects of both basic medical sciences (anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, pharmacology and pathophysiology, etc) and related clinical sciences. The epidemiological, sociological and ethical considerations contained within each problem should also be emphasized as an essential component of effective health care provision in our society. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]