A safety scalpel that incorporates a reusable metal scalpel handle (500) similar in shape and feel to the conventional metal handle preferred by most surgeons, and a disposable blade cartridge (300) that covers the blade (100) before, during and after use, and is easily mounted and released from the scalpel handle. The blade cartridge includes a blade (100) with similar cutting profiles as standard surgical blades, a blade holder that is permanently fixed to the blade, and a blade guard (300) that covers the blade and within which the blade holder (200) is able to slide. The scalpel handle is reusable, while the blade cartridge is disposable. The blade cartridge is attachable and detachable from the scalpel handle and may include a mechanical brake (1301) to prevent movement of the blade except when the reusable handle is in place. A safety latch feature (2230) is provided.
