Abstract: The needle guard protects medical personnel from accidental punctures associated with a surgical needle. The needle guard apparatus comprises two members, and a retainer. The surgical needle is securely retained between the two members when the retainer is in the engaged position. Preferably, when the retainer is in the engaged position, the surgical needle can only be removed from the needle guard by disengaging the retainer. After the sewing operation has been completed, the surgical needle and part of the suture extend outside of the two pieces of tissue. The surgical needle is then positioned within the needle guard, and the needle guard are securely engaged about the surgical needle. The portion of the suture extending between the needle guard and the tissue is used for knotting. The portion of the suture extending between the knot and the needle guard is cut, and the needle guard with the encased surgical needle is discarded of.