I can tell you from experience it would be cheaper to replace the saw. I have been around woodworking all of my life, my dad was a trim carpenter, and have used a table saw more than I care to remember. I don't do carpentry for a living, but still do woodworking around the house. About two years ago I was ripping some stock and when I reached back to get piece off the saw I ran my right hand over the blade. I cut the flesh away on the index finger and nicked the tendon. I nearly cut the tip of middle finger off, but luckily I stopped when I heard the "ting" as the blade broke the bone and nicked the tendon. Needless to say I ended up in the ER and later had to have two surgeries to repair the damage. They had to suture my index finger to my palm and then do a skin graft to get enough skin to cover the open area. Now that finger is a lot smaller at the tip than the one on the other hand. I think it ended up being around $16,000 for the surgeries, but my part after insurance was only about $1200. The only lingering damage is I have no feeling in the end of those two fingers and it still feels like they will come off if I am lifting something heavy. Before anybody asks, yes I still work on the table saw. I am a lot more cautious, though. Harpo's statement "Moral of the story...don't go near the table saw when your not 100% in the game" is very true and very good advice. On a side note, if anyone in the OKC metro area needs a referral for a good hand surgeon, email me.
Larry