A retractor system includes a retractor blade and a handle assembly. The retractor blade includes a base portion, a blade extending from the base portion, and a handle mount affixed to the base portion. The handle assembly includes an attachment portion and a retaining rod. The attachment portion includes a slot configured to receive the handle mount, a first cavity adjoining the slot, a retaining member moveable along the first cavity, and a second cavity adjoining the first cavity. Advancement of the retaining rod through the second cavity and into the first cavity advances the retaining member into the slot and into engagement with the handle mount.