A scalpel blade removal apparatus (10) for use with common surgical handle having a slotted tang (22) and a disposable blade (13). The apparatus (10) includes a receptacle for holding multiple blades (13) that have been disposed of. A cam arrangement is operated by the tang (22) as the surgeon pushes the handle (21) into the receptacle (18). The upper end of the cam (24) rotates, disengaging the proximal end of the blade (13) from the tang (22) and simultaneously forming a connection between the proximal end of the blade (13) and a shoulder that defines a catch (47). When the cam (24) rotates fully to its lower most position, the blade (13) is fully disengaged. The surgeon then removes the handle (21) by pulling the handle (21) along the same path used to insert the handle (21) and blade (13). The catch (47) then retains the blade (13) so that only the handle (21) and its tang (22) are withdrawn.
