The MD-2000 Surgical Instrument Detector is designed to assist instrument tracking systems and protect against instrument loss. It can pinpoint and detect surgical instruments that leave the tracking system and get lost in soiled linen and waste bags. Hospitals purchasing the MD-2000 can save as much as eighty percent through lost instrument retrieval. Personnel can scan bags manually or use a bag scanner that assists in handling the bags. An audible and visual alarm signals a detection. Targeted instruments are safely and easily retrieved using a magnetic retrieval probe or needle resistant glove.