Epidural Steroid Injection Cost
An epidural steroid injection (ESI), also known as a block, is a non-surgical pain management technique which delivers a local anesthetic directly into the spine.
Doing so has been said to help reduce the inflammation inside of the spine, helping to reduce the pain and even helping treat conditions such as spinal stenosis, herniated disc or degenerative disc disease, to name a few.
In most cases, this injection is often recommended so that the patient can start physical therapy or some sort of rehab to exercise with limited pain.
Becoming an increasingly popular way to help reduce back pain, the FDA has not approved this sort of procedure and is only considered as a short-term relief option.
How much does an epidural steroid injection cost?
The average cost of an epidural steroid injection will all depend on your health insurance, your geographical location, the provider and the facility where it’s performed. Without insurance, the averages, from prices previous patients shared online, ranged anywhere from $780 to more than $1,900 for just the epidural steroid injection. If a contrast dye is administered during the procedure, this can increase the costs as well.
In some cases, your doctor may want to confirm your back pain with a CT scan, MRI and/or x-ray to see if the injections may work for your circumstances. If this were the case, then you would have to budget for these procedures before the injections are even considered.
At MDSave.com, for instance, the providers listed on their website averaged $909 for the procedure.
According to BottomLineINC.com, the average injection can cost anywhere between $600 and $2,500 each and will not be helpful for back pain caused by muscle spasms. They also mention most medical professionals discourage these injections unless you had symptoms for more than six weeks.
How the procedure works
The injection, given by an anesthesiologist or an interventional radiologist, is often done inside of a specialty clinic, hospital or doctors’ office.
Before the injection begins, you will lay flat on an x-ray table with your back slightly curved. If this position causes any pain, then you may be able to sit in a different position.
During the injection, an x-ray, known as a fluoroscopy, will be used to help guide the placement of the local anesthetic into the epidural space — the area between the vertebrae and the spinal cord. This injection is designed to help reduce any inflammation in this area. This is important as studies have found, without this guidance, the medication may be misplaced.
When the needle is in the appropriate position, a contrast is injected to confirm the location and the steroid solution is then injected, ranging from 3 to 10mL, depending on the approach and steroid being used.
The entire procedure will take less than a half hour and after the procedure is done, you will be asked to sit in the waiting room for up to an hour, depending on if a sedative was used or not.
When returning home on the day of the procedure, your doctor will ask that you rest for up to 24 hours before resuming the usual activities.
This injection, depending on the reasoning, can be performed up to three times in 180 days. If you do not feel relief, even after multiple injections, then your doctor will recommend another course of action. As the benefits only last a few weeks, additional injections may only be recommended based on your doctor’s approval.
If performed on a patient experiencing limited lower back pain, some can see short-term relief for as long as six weeks on average.
Epidural steroid injection risks
While the injections are deemed relatively safe, some risks may occur, including an inflammation of the lining of the spinal cord, meningitis, damage to the spinal cord, nerve injury and/or paralysis. Some rarer but serious risks may include headaches, back pain, dizziness, urinary retention, incontinence, facial flushing, increased pain, vomiting or pain at the injection site.
Side effects
Even though they are considered safe for the majority who have them, the most common side effects, as per PainDoctor.com, can include pain, bleed and/or swelling at the injection site.
Other side effects include nausea, weight gain, diarrhea, hot flashes, anxiety, water retention and changes in your blood pressure.
We recommend reading this Johns Hopkins side effect list for more information as to what to expect.
Conditions treated
As per Spine-Health.com, several common conditions can be treated by these steroid injections, including:
- Annular tear
- Compression fractures
- Cysts
- Degenerative disc disease
- Lumbar disc herniation
- Lumbar Spinal Stenosis
Facts you should know
The American Pain Society, the American Society of Interventional Pain Physicians, and the American Academy of Neurology, as per Consumer Reports, noted, that with some evidence, these types of shots can help ease lower back pain caused by nerve pain in the short-term; however, these shots will not provide any long-term benefits. A neurology group, for instance, stated these shots had no impact on their functional impairment, the need for surgery or pain relief beyond 90 days. Also, according to the article, a review of medical studies determined that there is insufficient benefits to support the use of any injection therapy for lower back pain.
Doctors often recommend first trying other noninvasive measures such as physical therapy, medication, hot/cold compresses, acupuncture, massages and/or manipulation before attempting an injection, especially if this is the first time seeking relief for your lower back pain. While many medical professionals do not advise against this type of therapy, they recommend it as a last resort if other noninvasive methods are not working for your situation.
Always discuss your health with your doctor ahead of time as many will not perform the procedure if you have an infection, uncontrollable diabetes and/or are on blood thinners. Other medical conditions may prevent you from receiving the injections as well, so it’s best to talk with your physician to know if you are a candidate.
Consumer Reports says you should always ask your doctor if they are a board-certified pain specialist. This simply means they have done a formal fellowship in pain management.
After the treatment, the results greatly vary on your circumstances. Some people report relief in as little as two to three days, while others state it can take more than two weeks to see progress. Emory Health has a helpful PDF in regards to what you should expect after the procedure is complete.
These injections can stay in your system for about three to four weeks.
How Much Does Dofetilide Cost?
Dofetilide, a generic version of Tikosyn approved by the FDA, is a prescription designed to help make your heart beat normally or even help slow down a rapid heartbeat.
Part of a group of medications known as antiarrhythmics, it is able to work by slowing down the nerve impulses in the heart.
Dofetilide cost
The cost of Dofetilide, as with any prescription, will depend on your insurance coverage, the dosage, the quantity and the quantity you choose. As there are many options, we broke down the average costs in our table below for those who do not have any health insurance options. As of this publishing, the drug is available in 125 mcg, 250 mcg, and 500 mcg strengths.
| Dosage | Average Quantity/Price |
|---|---|
| 125mcg | - 30 capsules: $100 - 60 capsules: $195 - 120 capsules: $385 - 180 capsules: $565 - 270 capsules: $1,350 |
| 250mcg | - 10 capsules: $55 - 30 capsules: $100 - 60 capsules: $195 - 180 capsules: $190 |
| 500mcg | - 10 capsules: $40 - 30 capsules: $100 - 60 capsules: $195 - 180 capsules: $565 |
NOTE: Do keep in mind that these costs are for those without insurance and can greatly vary depending on the factors mentioned above.
Via GoodRx.com, the costs of the prescription, when you used their free discount card, seemed to be the cheapest at Walmart, Walgreens and CVS, with Kroger and Costco being the most expensive option. As for insurance, GoodRX does note Medicare will cover it, with most patients paying a co-pay ranging anywhere from $15 to $433.
As for those who have a private health insurance plan, the average co-pay for 180 capsules ranged anywhere from as little as $40 to $300. If you do plan on using your health insurance policy, you can either talk with your health insurance company and/or the pharmacy directly to see what you will be responsible for.
According to the Drugs.com price average, the 125 mcg averages $367 for 60 capsules, and the 250 and 500 mcg averages $367 for 60 capsules.
How it’s used
Take the medicine as prescribed by your doctor and never take more or even less of it unless you talk with your doctor ahead of time. This medicine, as per the directions, will work best when there’s a constant supply inside the body, meaning you will need to take a constant amount at the same time every day to keep it constant. In most cases, your doctor will ask you start this medicine while you’re still at the hospital in order to check your heart rhythm and determine which dosage works for your situation. Doctors note you will need to be prepared to stay at the hospital for up to three days in order to find the right amount. The dosage will be different for everybody since the amount of medicine you take will depend on the strength and the problem you’re experiencing.
The drug can be taken with or without food.
Dofetilide side effects
Commonly reported side effects, as per Drugs.com, include flu-like symptoms, dizziness, a fast/slow heartbeat, fainting, chest pain, paralysis, numbness, slurred speech, swelling, breathing troubles, weight gain, and/or yellow eyes/skin. Less common side effects, as per the Drugs.com list, can occur as well, including back pain, chills, coughing, fever, headaches, joint pains, nausea, rash, shivering and sneezing, to name a few. If you experience any side effects as mentioned, be sure to talk with your doctor immediately.
How to save money on Dofetilide
There may be alternatives, designed to work in the same way, which could cost much less. Known as a drug class of Antiarrhythmics, Pacerone, Tambocor and Betapace, to name a few, can cost less than $30, even without any health insurance, for example. Unless your doctor has a reason to prescribe this medicine, see if he or she can prescribe a lower cost medicine to help you save a few dollars.
The manufacturer of the drug has a program for eligible patients for as little as $4 a month (30-day fill), but it is not available for those who are eligible for Medicaid, Medicare or any related federal or state healthcare programs.
Consider using prescription coupons, such as the website mentioned above, GoodRX.com. By printing the coupon for free, you could save a few hundred dollars. These programs are free and only take a few seconds to print your card. If considering, be sure to compare a few pharmacy coupon-based websites as there are a lot to choose from online.
Black Russian Terrier Cost
The Black Russian Terrier, created in Russia during the early 1940s, was the result of an interbreeding which includes several breeds such as the Giant Schnauzer, Rottweiler, Airedale Terrier and Newfoundland, with the Giant Schnauzer being the main ancestor.
Initially performed by a military cynological school just outside of Moscow, the goal was to develop a stronger, large dog that had a natural guarding instinct.
On July 1, 2004, this breed was admitted to the AKC Working Group.
The average Black Russian Terrier price
The cost of Black Russian Terrier will depend on the breeder, their reputation, supply/demand, the inclusions with the adoption, the quality, age and the geographical location. With these factors in mind, the costs can range anywhere from $1,300 to $2,000 for a high-quality, AKC registered puppy around eight weeks old. Of course, this is the price for the breed only and will not include any of the ongoing fees for the future and shipping fees if you were to adopt from someone located overseas.
From our research, though, it does appear the breed is extremely rare and even if you’re able to find a breeder, be prepared to be put on a waiting list. Even if you’re able to find a breeder with active listings, there could also be a great chance you will have to adopt overseas.
Via the official AKC Marketplace, for example, there were 22 active breeders at the time of this publishing, with costs averaging about $1,500 from breeders who did list their costs via their ad. Of these 22 breeder listings, only one breeder had an available litter at the time.
On PuppyFind.com, an online dog classified website, there were only 15 active listings, with prices ranging from $800 to $2,500. These prices were much lower than the estimates provided earlier due to most of the listings not being an AKC quality.
The extra costs to budget for
As we mentioned, there is a good chance you’re going to either have to adopt from someone located overseas or in another state. Shipping within the United States, via an airline, can cost anywhere from $200 to $300, while overseas shipping can be double this.
As you already know, a dog will always require ongoing maintenance such as food, vet visits, accessories, miscellaneous supplies, grooming sessions and pet sitting, to name a few. BRTCA.org mentions you should be prepared to go through at least 40 pounds of dry food a month, which equates to about $75 to $150, depending on the quality fo the food.
Before adopting, if the breeder doesn’t include any clearance testing, such a hip/elbow certification, eye test and/or thyroid test, then this could cost another $500 to $1,000.
Due to the dog’s larger size, any vet encounters can cost more since all medication is usually based on the weight of the dog. This means heartworm medicine, shots and prescriptions could cost much more than an average-sized dog.
What should be included?
With your adoption fee from a reputable breeder, most, at a minimum, should include a health checkup via a veterinarian, deworming, up-to-date vaccinations, AKC registration paperwork and some may even include a microchip. In some cases, albeit rare, the breeder may include a clearance for JLLP, a genetic disease and a travel crate.
Description of the breed
| Coat | The outer weatherproof coat repels water while the undercoat insulates the dog from the coat. The length averages 1.5 to 4 inches. |
| Coat Color | Black or mixed with black and gray |
| Energy | A mixed bag -- can be calm at times and moderately energetic, depending on the situation |
| Good with children? | With supervision, yes |
| Good with other pets? | With supervision, yes |
| Grooming | Should be performed regularly to keep coat in tip-top shape |
| Groups | AKC Working Dogs, FCI Group II.: Pinscher and Schnauzer- Molossoid Breeds - Swiss Mountain and Cattle Dogs, TKC Working |
| Height | 27-31 inches (male), 26-30 inches (female) |
| Life Expectancy | 10-13 years |
| Litter Size | 5-11 |
| Other Names | Chornyi, Terrier Noir Russe, Russian Bear Schnauzer, Black Terrier, Tchiorny Terrier, BRT and Stalin's Do |
| Personality | Intelligent, bold, adventurous, determined and very protective |
| Shedding | Seasonal |
| Shedding | Will shed minimally and is recommended for those who want to deal with a dog that doesn't shed a lot. The dog can be shaved, however, if being used as a show dog. |
| Weight | 75-135 pounds |
Black Russian Terrier Temperament
Admiring and lively, the Black Russian Terrier loves to play with children, adults and other dogs, constantly seeking attention from those who roam around. As they are always looking for attention, this breed may not be ideal for a family who is not able to spend a lot of time throughout the day with the breed. As long a true pack leader is determined in the house, the dog can do well with other dog breeds.
Character
Caring, family-oriented, inquisitive and defensive, the Black Russian Terrier makes for a great family companion and guard dog for those they love. As they are very suspicious of strangers, they can protect their home if trained accordingly. As a puppy, like many, they are very curious and can even become quite destructure if no redirection occurs.
Training
The Black Russian Terrier, as mentioned, loves to be near their own at all times, meaning they are very eager to please and will respond quite well to training. While they do require a firm and consistent pack master, they are known to respond much better to a loving approach, according to PuppyFind.com. As with most puppies, starting training at a younger age is always best since the dog can grow much larger than the average breed, making it hard for some owners to control, especially if they are not trained accordingly.
Facts to know
The Black Russian Terrier can do well in an apartment or condo-like setting as long as it receives an adequate amount of exercise. No matter how long their indoor space is, they tend to stay inactive while inside. Being extremely close to their owner, they will almost always be at your side, just like a cat. Always ready for a long walk, they love the snow, water and even playing fetch in a wide open space.
This dog is not considered to be hypoallergenic.
How Much Does Deplin Cost?
Deplin (LEVOMEFOLATE ), a prescription-based medical food, is designed to be used together to help manage both depression and schizophrenia.
According to the official website, the drug is formulated and can be used with your current antidepressant to meet the nutritional needs for patients who suffer from depression.
How much does Deplin cost?
The costs of Deplin will depend on the dosage, your medical insurance and where you have your prescription filled. The costs of (30) 15mg capsules can cost about $160 without insurance, whereas (30) 7.5mg capsules can cost about the same, according to GoodRx.com. This seemed to be the same price at most pharmacies such as Walmart and Costco.
| Quantity | Price (for both 7.5 and 15mg) |
|---|---|
| 5 | $28 |
| 30 | $160 |
| 60 | $310 |
| 90 | $460 |
As for the average insurance co-pay, GoodRx.com claims that Medicare will not cover this drug, but the typical co-pay, if your insurance provider were to cover it, would be about $169 for 90 capsules.
The drug
These capsules contain L-methylfolate, which is an active form of folate, one of the body’s essential B vitamins. People who suffer and struggle from depression often lack this nutrient and is important to help with depression as your body may have a specific nutritional imbalance that causes your body to require extra active folate when you have depression. Due to this, not having a sufficient amount of this folate can increase your chance of depression, even if you feel it has disappeared.
The drug, as per the company, states the drug is different as the folic acid is the not equivalent as an active folate seen in a non-subscription folic acid. Since non-prescription folic acid needs to be broken down or activated when consumed, up to 70 percent of patients who suffer from depression have the inability to do so. With this being said, the capsule already contains the already-activated folate to make you do not have to go through the steps mentioned earlier in order to activate it in the first place. When the folate works, it can helhp boost your body’s ability to create neurotransmitters, the natural chemicals inside the brain, helping improve your natural imbalances and improving your mood naturally.
As this may need long-term attention, you will need to take this prescription under a doctor’s order. Doing so will help your doctor track your progression and determine how long you should take this medicine. In most cases, it can take up to two weeks for the medicine to start taking effect.
How do you take this drug?
Always follow the directions on your prescription label and take with a full glass of water after consuming the pill and take the doses in regular intervals. According to the label, you can either take this food medicine with or without food.
Deplin side effects
Even though side effect may be rare, they can still occur. Always talk with your doctor if you experience any side effects noted below:
Allergic reactions such as hives, itching, swollen skin, blisters and/or peeling skin with or without a fever.
Wheezing, trouble breathing and/or a tightened chest or throat.
A burning or tingling feeling that doesn’t feel normal.
Upset stomach and/or throwing up.
Source:Drugs.com.
Deplin reviews
At Drugs.com, more than 70 visitors gave the drug a total of 7.7 out of 10, with the most helpful review stating “you must wait at least three months or about six weeks until you start to see the effects. The reviewer noted this drug, along with Wellbutrin really gave him a huge boost and higher energy level. In the end, he said you should not rate this drug after a few days; again, you should wait a few weeks, just like the manufacturer even states.
7 people reviewed the drug on EverydayHealth.com, giving it a 3.5 out of 5 stars, with negative reviews saying it greatly affected their moods, while others said it was a true happy pill when combined with other anti-depressants.
Over 145 people on WebMD.com gave the drug a 3.94 for effectiveness, 4.58 for ease of use and 3.84 as a total satisfaction rate.
How to save money on Deplin
The website we referenced earlier, GoodRx.com, allows you to save money at your local pharmacy by simply printing the savings card found on the official website. To take advantage of the discount, you pick out the pharmacy you want to have the prescription filled in your area, print out the card and bring it in for the savings. No membership, insurance or any money on your part is needed to take advantage of the program.
The manufacturer of this drug, Pamlab, offers a low-cost alternative by having the prescription filled by mail order. At the time of this publishing, you will pay about $175 for a 90-day quantity, regardless of your income. They also claim you will pay no more than $58 per month. For more information, you can either visit the official website here or call (844) 561-6925 to enroll.
How Much Does a Bull Terrier Cost?
During the early 1800s, it was common for Bulldogs to fight with a Terrier and was known as a popular sport.
Eventually crossed with the Bulldog and the Old English Terrier, mixed with some Spanish Pointer, the Bull Terrier breed was eventually formed as it is known today.
How much does a Bull Terrier cost?
The cost of a Bull Terrier, as with any purebred, will greatly depend on the breeder you’re adopting from, their reputation, supply/demand, the inclusions with the adoption, the quality, the colors, age and the geographical location. Even though more factors can be involved, the average cost of a high-quality, purebred Bull Terrier from a reputable breeder, can range anywhere from $1,400 to $2,100.
Of course, this is the price for the dog only and will not include the ongoing costs in the future. As with most dogs, be prepared to spend an additional $500 to $900 per year for annual costs.
The Las Vegas Review-Journal, in its “The 30 Most Expensive Dog Breeds to Own,” noted the average Staffordshire Bull Terrier can average $1,500, while the Miniature Bull Terrier can average $1,600.
Via the official AKC Marketplace, there were over 50+ active breeders who had listings at the time of this publishing. According to most of the breeders we did look at, the costs ranged anywhere from $1,500 to $2,000. At a minimum, most breeders included the first vaccine — DHPP, deworming, a vet exam and the puppies were cleared of any potential genetic disorder.
NextDayPets.com states that you shouldn’t be surprised if you find a top quality dog costing as much as $2,400 to $10,000+, but according to most of the active listings we saw on their website, the prices did range from $850 to $3,500.
What should be included?
At adoption, a reputable breeder, at a minimum, should include the AKC registration paperwork (if registered), a health guarantee that lasts at least 30 days, up-to-date vaccinations, a vet checkup, all medical paperwork and all registration paperwork. While not necessary, some breeders may microchip, clear for any genetic disorders, include a small starter pack and/or provide lifetime continuous support.
Size and weight
Females weigh anywhere from 50 to 60 pounds, while males weight slightly more at 60 to 70 pounds on average.
As for the height, both males and females measure 21 to 22 inches.
The Bull Terrier is known for its head and muzzle, which is ovular in shape with a longer skull that curves deep down to its nose with no distinguishable stop. This breed has small, deeply set-looking eyes, positioned in the middle, and its eyes are smaller-than-average, triangle in shape and are fully erect most of the time.
If you’re unfamiliar with the look, the Target dog, Bullseye, is a Bull Terrier breed.
Coat
Its coat is a thick, short-haired cost that’s white in color with some dogs displaying highlights of varying colors ranging from red, black or fawn. Most breeds will have a marking on their heads, often in the form of a spot near the eyes and/or a strip on the bridge of the nose.
This breed will shed a lot, especially as the seasons change and grooming sessions, at least once per month, are highly recommended. A bath and simple brushing every week is recommended once a week in order to keep their coats healthy and remove any dead hairs present.
Be prepared to see a lot of shedding and hairs sticking to your clothes all the time.
Character and temperament
A Bull Terrier lives up to its size, known to be very excited, entertaining, independent, and good-natured at a time, but some can be stubborn and even lazy at times, especially if not trained at an early age. According to PuppyFind.com, this breed can be gentle to those they are comfortable they know, but when it comes to defending their owners and/or feeling threatened, they can defend if the scenario presents itself.
They love to play with just about anyone, including children, other dogs and even cats, as long as introduced at a young age. As with any dog, they should always be monitored, even if you feel you know their personality. However, do be forewarned they often do not do well with dogs of the same sex as they have strong instincts to protect their food and even their surroundings, again, especially if they are untrained.
Facts to know
As long as healthy, a Bull Terrier has a life expectancy of 11 to 15 years, making it about average for a dog of this size.
Due to their excitement levels, they do need exercise at least 20 to 30 minutes a day. If refused, they can become bored, hyperactive and/or destructive inside the home, often leading to unwanted situations such as chewing on furniture or even barking excessively. Preferably, these dogs will need a longer 20-30 minute walk, either on a walking trail, a dog park or in a field nearby off the leash (as long as it’s safe). Playing fetch is also an activity they enjoy as well.
The Standard Bull Terrier and the Miniature Bull Terrier are known to be separate breeds, but in general, they do have similar temperaments, according to YourPureBredPuppy.com. The same can be said about the English Bull Terrier as this breed, like the Miniature, is much different than the American Bull Terrier. In some cases, the English Bull Terrier are actually banned as they are deemed dangerous dogs.
As this is considered a very popular breed, consider checking out a local shelter or rescue group to see if you can adopt an older dog for a fraction of the cost. When adopting an older dog, this is a great way to see what you’re getting in terms of personality.
This breed is susceptible to kidney disease, eye diseases and deafness.
How Much Does a Hysterectomy Cost?
A hysterectomy is a surgical procedure designed to remove the uterus and in some cases, the cervix, ovaries and even part of the vagina as well in the case of endometriosis or cancer.
Done for a variety of reasons, the most common cause is due to either cancer, abnormal bleeding, chronic pain or endometriosis, to name a few.
The average cost of a hysterectomy
The costs of a hysterectomy, as with any surgical procedure, will depend on your geographical location, the type of hysterectomy, the facility, the surgeon performing the surgery and the inclusions in the bill. For those who do not have health insurance, the costs we found online ranged anywhere from $8,000 to more than $24,000, but for those who did have a policy, the costs would greatly depend on the health insurance policy as they all greatly vary. The costs could be much higher if you needed to include indirect costs such as the ambulatory procedure room, recovery room, additional hospital stays and anesthesia.
The average total costs of a hysterectomy, as per an Amino.com study, was $9,388, and this cost estimate was based on your location, the insurance coverage and the doctor.
HealthGrades.com notes all hysterectomy procedures are not created equally and you should be prepared to spend anywhere from $5,000 to $11,000 for a more invasive surgery, while those with cancer could see prices in the $7,600 to $12,400 range.
In this Journal of Society of Laparoendoscopic Surgeons medical study, the results found the mean total patient costs were $43,622 for abdominal and $49,526 for robotic hysterectomies and the costs were influenced by the type of hysterectomy, operative time and the length of time.
| Type of Hysterectomy | Price Range |
|---|---|
| Abdominal Hysterectomy | $10,000 to $19,000 |
| Laparoscopic hysterectomy | $8,000 to $14,000 |
| Vaginal Hysterectomy | $8,000 to $18,000 |
| Da Vinci Hysterectomy | $8,000 to $14,000 |
Factors affecting the price
The type of surgery you have – As you can see in our table above, the type of hysterectomy will greatly affect the price of your surgery. The costs greatly depend on how long the surgery is going to take, the type of tools used and how much anesthesia you need.
Geographical location – As with just about anything in life, your geographical region where the hysterectomy is performed can affect the cost. An area with a lot of competition may have lower prices, even though it’s in a high-cost area, while a smaller city center with only one option may have higher costs due to the lack of the competition.
Insurance – Even with health insurance, you will find your price could be much different than the same patient at the same hospital. As all health insurance companies have agreed upon rates, in the end, you will be responsible for your deductible, co-pays, co-insurance, if it’s network, and the rate your insurance company haggled.
Anesthesia – With most of the procedures, anesthesia will be required, and seeing it is billed by the hour, the more you need, the more you will pay. Also, most hospital/surgical facilities will send a separate anesthesiologist bill.
The hospital/facility – All hospitals will vary with pricing as some may charge a bit less if they perform a lot of them annually, while others may charge if they do not do as many. Talk with your local hospital over the phone as many are willing to give you at least a ballpark estimate before you commit to the surgery.
Types of hysterectomy procedures
Abdominal hysterectomy – This surgery, designed to remove either all or part of your uterus, is the most common type of hysterectomy performed by either a gynecologist or general surgeon. During this surgical procedure, an incision, about seven inches long, either vertical or horizontal, depending on the reason for the surgery, is created in the abdomen. Once all or part of the uterus is removed, stitches are used and most patients find themselves staying in the hospital for up to seven days.
Laparoscopic hysterectomy – A minimally invasive procedure, a laparoscopic hysterectomy will remove the uterus via numerous tiny incisions created to insert a tool known as a laparoscope, a device which is a miniature lighted tube with a camera attached at the end. As this tool is inserted via an incision inside your abdomen, the doctor will manage the camera to remove the uterus in tiny pieces. As compared to other procedures, this procedure has a lower risk of infection, less scarring and less of a blood loss.
Vaginal hysterectomy – According to the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, they recommend this type of hysterectomy as the first choice since it produces the fewest complications and is known to have the quickest healing time. Like the laparoscopic hysterectomy, this is also considered a minimally invasive surgery. With this surgical procedure, your doctor, while you’re under a general anesthesia, will use tools to remove your uterus through the vagina, and depending on the circumstances, the fallopian tubes and ovaries may be removed as well. For most patients, a one to two-night hospital stay is recommended in some cases, with some patients being able to go home the day of the surgery.
Recovery process – how long?
Depending on the procedure performed, some patients can go home as earlier as that day, while some, especially those with complications, may have to stay upwards of four days to be monitored.
When you’re able to go home, you will be asked to move around but not too much and to take it slow, according to Cigna. During the first 14 days, it is important to rest as much as possible, and even when you feel as if you are your normal self, you will still need to refrain from lifting heavy objects.
In the end, most patients will see a full recovery ranging anywhere from four to six weeks.
Resurface Brake Rotors Cost
Most of the vehicles you find on the road today use a disc brake system on all wheels, with the brake rotors being the last part of the braking setup.
The rotors are designed to help slow the down the car by the resistance produced by the brake pads, and when these pads go bad and need to be replaced, the rotors, at this time, will need to be replaced as well.
However, if enough thickness remains on the rotors, then the rotors may be resurfaced, also referred to as turning, to restore the part to a new-like condition, helping you save some money.
How much does it cost to resurface rotors?
The cost to resurface your rotors will depend on the mechanic/dealership you choose and the vehicle you drive. As mentioned in our intro, if there is enough thickness of the rotors, then a mechanic may recommend resurfacing the part. If so, the costs, from what we researched, can range anywhere from $40 to $65 per rotor based on these factors at a mechanic and almost double this at a local dealership. This estimate would be for the rotors only and would not include any other repairs such as replacing the brake pads or calipers, to name a few.
RepairPal.com, according to its quotes from mechanics across the United States, noted the average price could average between $235 and $329, with labor costs estimated to be $158 and $200, while parts are priced between $77 and $129.
One member on this NissanMurano.org forum thread said his local Nissan dealer quoted him $225 for the front and another $250 for the rear and wondered if this price was fair, and according to the responses, most claimed you were better of replacing them instead of considering the resurfacing job.
Austin Davis at MyHonestMechanic.com noted he would charge about $100 to remove the two front wheels and the rotors to resurface them.
At O’Reilly Auto Parts, if you remove your rotors, they will resurface them in store for about $15 to $30 each, according to a local store we talked with.
Repairing the brake rotors
Replacing brake pads and the rotors could be one of the most common repairs performed by most mechanics. First, the mechanic will first examine the rotors to look for any cracks, rust, deep grooves and/or the blue color, which indicates the brake rotor passed the permissible heat range. If these limitations are noted, then the mechanic will want to replace the rotors and will not recommend resurfacing them.
If the brake rotors are a candidate for resurfacing, then the rotor will be separated from the car and will be placed on what’s known as a brake lathe. This large industrial machine will surface the rotors by rotating the part as the metal part of the machine will make several passes as it scrapes across the side of rotors. Doing so, it will clean and “resurface” the rotor until a certain amount of thickness has been maintained. As long as the thickness is deemed safe for the vehicle, then the rotors will be connected and the new calipers and pads will be installed as well. Lastly, the brake system will be drained (bled) in order to flush any of the air and polluted brake fluid found inside the brake lines.
The entire resurfacing process should take a pinch less than one hour.
Symptoms of a poor brake rotor
As these parts are usually maintenance free, problems can arise, just like any other car part. If the rotors, for example, are subjected to abnormally hard use, then the heat the rotors absorb can cause the metal to turn blue and/or even crack. If this were to occur, then you may either lose braking power and/or a loud noise may come from the braking area. In some cases, no signs may be present and a visual inspection may be necessary to see if any cracks and/or the blue color is present. If any of these signs were present, it is not safe to operate the vehicle by any means and the vehicle in question should be taken to a mechanic immediately.
Tips to know
What is the average lifetime of brake rotors? Brake rotors are usually replaced anytime the brake pads are replaced, and this all depends on the driver’s driving style and the operating conditions. While the intervals can vary, rotors, on average, can last anywhere from 15,000 to 80,000+ miles. Be sure to check your official owner manual for more information in regards to how long your brake pads/rotors may last.
Compare the costs of a new rotor as you may find the costs of a new one, even when professionally installed, can be quite close to a resurfaced rotor.
While a rotor can be cut to a manufacturer’s minimum specifications, rotors, even at these specs, are more likely to overheat, cause delays in braking and/or give brake fade, according to AdvanceAutoParts.com. Being thinner, the part may warp faster, cause it to lose its efficiency faster.
With some brands, such as some Honda Accords and various European modes, rotors are not designed to be resurfaced and should be replaced, regardless of the circumstances.
If a rotor has been resurfaced in the past, then a mechanic will almost always want to replace it.
Mercury Amalgam Filling Removal Cost
If you have any sort of silver filling in your mouth, you may be thinking about getting rid of it and replacing it with a resin.
A dental amalgam, also known as a silver cavity, is a common material to fill cavities, and over time, it may need to be removed due to decay, for instance.
How much does it cost to remove mercury amalgam fillings?
The cost of removing an old amalgam filling and replacing it with a resin, in most cases, will greatly depend on your dentist, the filling used after, the amount of decay, dental insurance (if you have it) and geographical location. From our research, the costs to just remove the mercury fillings can range anywhere from $175 to $315 per tooth, but the costs can be more than this when you factor in the new filling and x-rays needed beforehand.
However, before this procedure, your dentist will want to take an x-ray, perform a routine cleaning and examine your gum tissue, bone structure and the tooth/teeth to determine if the removal even makes sense. These x-rays, depending on the dentist billing policy, may be an additional cost, with dental x-rays costing anywhere from $125 to $225+
Your dental insurance may cover the procedure if any decay is present inside your mouth around the tooth in question. IowaMercuryFreeDentistry.com, however, notes insurance companies often cover the replacement of any cracks, decayed or otherwise non-serviceable fillings. Depending on the size, they note the cost to have an amalgam filling replaced can range anywhere from $160 to $325.
If you want to use your dental insurance, then it’s highly recommended you check with your dentist office ahead of time to know if the procedure will be covered. Even if you do not have a dental insurance policy, you may want to check out DentalPlans.com, a plan which works in the same way as insurance. As long as your dentist accepts the plan you sign up for, you may be able to save a good amount of money.
If you were to choose a holistic dentist who uses a BPA and composite free filling, for example, it can be much more, often averaging $350+ a tooth.
Kate at RealFoodRN.com did a great job breaking down the entire process she went through when her dentist removed her amalgam filling, and in one of her comments, she said she had the procedure done on five teeth and her total came to $3,500 before insurance.
A member on Mothering.com said she was quoted $250 to $425 per tooth at a local holistic dentist.
Via a reply on CureZone.org, she noted she had nine filling removed, with each costing about $125 each, but since each filling was wearing away due to time, her dental insurance policy was able to cover 55 percent of the costs.
What is dental amalgam?
According to the FDA, a dental amalgam, sometimes referred to as a silver filling, is a dental filling that has been done to fill cavities which have caused tooth decay in the past. Being practiced for more than 150+ years, it’s a blend of metals, consisting of the elemental liquid mercury and a powdered alloy composed of copper, tin and silver. By weight, 50 percent of dental amalgam fillings is elemental by weight, allowing it to react and bind together the alloy metals particles to form the amalgam.
The procedure
Since drilling out these fillings use an immense amount of heat, Dr. Tom McGuire notes it can cause a significant increase of the release of mercury into the air, and for this reason, cooling the filling with water and air while drilling will help reduce the amount being released.
Before the dentist begins to work on the tooth, he or she, most of the time, will give you an alternative source of air to help protect you from any vapors being released in the air while the tooth is being worked on. At this time, a rubber dam may also be used to help isolate the tooth being worked on and prevent you from swallowing any particles being released as the filling is removed.
Using a technique known as “chunking,” a dentist will drill just enough of the tooth in order to remove either by hand or a powerful suction-like device to help minimize the mercury vapor and the amalgam particles.
After the filling is removed, the rubber dam will be removed and your mouth will be vacuumed for about 15 to 30 seconds as this will help remove any mercury vapor and amalgam particles lingering in the mouth.
Once the fillings are removed and replaced, your face and neck will be cleaned as a safe protocol to make sure you’re not bringing any mercury home.
The risks of removing a mercury filling
According to the FDA, as long as your filling remains free and clear of any decay and remains strong, then they recommend keeping it; however, if a portion of your tooth needs to be removed, then you do risk the chance of exposing yourself to the mercury vapor and this is something that needs to be avoided. The mercury inside your tooth is an elemental mercury and it is known to release low levels of mercury in the form of a vapor that can be inhaled and absorbed by your lungs. In the end, the FDA did review multiple medical studies and what they found that low levels of this mercury vapor are a cause of concern, but based on this scientific evidence, the amalgam fillings are deemed safe for children and adults older than six.
Firestone Brake Service Cost
Firestone Complete Auto Care says its known to be different, offering not only the best customer service but quality products and the right solutions for your automotive needs.
Offering a variety of brake service options, ranging from a simple inspection to replacement brake pads and more, your local Firestone Complete Auto Care, just like your local mechanic and dealership, can repair your brakes for a fee.
With more than 1,600 locations, they mention the biggest perk is in the warranty it offers, allowing you to get your car fixed at any Firestone location nationwide.
The cost of Firestone standard/lifetime brake service cost
The costs of getting your brakes serviced at your local Firestone will greatly depend on the type of brake repair and the type of package you choose, which is something we will talk about later in this guide and the vehicle you own. Refer to our table below to see the prices you may pay.
| Option | Pads | Warranty Offered | Price (per axle) | Rotor resurfacing included? | New hardware installed? | Brake fluid exchange included? |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Standard | Wagner | 12 month / 12,000 mile | $175 | Yes | No | No |
| Standard with Fluid Exchange | Wagner | 24 month / 24,000 miles | $350 | Yes | No | Yes |
| Lifetime | Wagner | 12 month / 12,000 mile + lifetime warranty as explained below | $450 | Yes | Yes | Yes |
NOTE: How did we get these figures? We took an average using the prices discussed on this forum thread and this page. Your results can vary, so do take this an average as to what you may pay. Seeing the company does run a promotion from time to time, you may be able to pay much less. The prices can be much higher if they find you need other repairs as well.
A member on this forum thread at AnAndTech.com said he was quoted $16.99 for a courtesy brake inspection, but this fee was waived later if you committed to the service. In the end, he broke down his quote as the following: $59.99 for the ceramic disc pads, $115 for the brake job ee, $151 for both rotors, $12.99 for the brake fluid exchange, $2.60 for the fluid waste disposal and $74.40 for the fluid exchange labor.
Brake service options offered
Standard package – Known as the “good” package, this brake service package includes installation of new brake pads/shoes, resurfacing the brake rotors/drums, an inspection of all brake components and a lifetime part warranty on the shoes and disc pads, as well as a 12,000-mile labor warranty.
Standard package with a fluid exchange – Includes everything in the standard package, plus a brake fluid exchange/bleeding the brakes and a longer warranty — 24,000 miles, 24-month labor warranty.
Lifetime service – Known as the “best” package, this brake service package includes everything noted in the fluid exchange package, plus new brake calipers/wheel cylinders and a lifetime warranty on labor, the brake disc pads, brake shoes, brake hardware, calipers and/or the wheel cylinders and the shoes. It also includes a 12,000 mile, 12-month warranty and the drums and the rotors.
In total, the company can perform any brake service, including a brake fluid exchange, replacement of any brake hardware, including the rotors, wheel bearings, brake hoses, drums and master cylinders, as well as resurfacing any rotors, cleaning/adjusting the drum brakes, repacking wheel bearings and/or repair/diagnosing an anti-lock braking system.
The inspection
If you think you’re in need of a brake service and inspection, the company will perform a free brake check, seven days a week, which includes measuring both brake pads, the rotor and drum, as well as performing a strip dip brake fluid test and e-brake inspection. With these results, they will then determine if you need new brake pads, rotor resurfacing, a brake fluid exchange, brake bleeding and/or a replacement of any lines, hoses or other related brake components.
Symptoms of poor brake pads
A high or squeaking-like pitch sound coming from inside the wheel well
Any sign of a darker fluid leaking
The brakes do not react as they should when pressure is applied
The ABS light is illuminated on the dashboard
A slight loss of control when brakes are applied
Tips to know
Nationally, the company uses Wagner® ThermoQuiet® brake pads, which are known to be one of the most innovative and advanced brake pads on the market today. These pads, according to the company, features a one-piece brake pad that’s able to provide maximizing noise dampening and heat dissipation. No matter which car you drive, they will have a brake pad to match.
The company, annually, performs close to one million brake services a year or close to 3,000 a day.
Drum Brake Replacement Cost
In 1998, rotors replaced drum brakes, but of course, you can still find these older cars on the road today.
Responsible for creating friction between the pads and the drums to slow the wheel as it rotates, it will allow the vehicle to come to a complete stop.
Like any part, the drum brakes will wear out over time from the heat generated when creating this said friction, ultimately causing the part to lose its effectiveness.
Drum brake replacement costs
The costs to replace your drum brakes, like any car repair, will depend on the mechanic/dealer you’re using, the vehicle you’re driving, which drum brake (front and/or rear), your geographical location and if any other repairs are required. From our research from costs online, the average repair seems to be in the $250 to $475 if hiring a professional. The parts are anywhere from $70 to $125, with labor in the $165 to $250+ range. Even if one brake drum is bad, a mechanic will always want to replace all of them at the same time.
According to the prices visitors received on YourMechanic.com, the estimates, including both parts and labor, ranged anywhere from $172 to $234.
RepairPal mentions vehicle owners should be prepared to spend anywhere from $337 to $502, which, as we stated, can vary from car to car.
One member on this CarTalk.com forum thread said he was quoted $279 for both parts and labor at his local dealership for his 1999 Honda Accord.
The repair process
Before the mechanic replaces the brake drums, they will first want to remove and measure the thickness of the brake drum as this will indicate exactly if the part needs to be replaced. At this time, he or she will also look out for any deep grooves, black spots, which are known as hot spots, and a bluish color, which is an indicator the brake drum exceeds its heat range. If lower than recommended, then it will be confirmed the part needs to be replaced.
To replace, the brake shoes will first need to be discharged from the brake drum itself, often using a brake drum removal tool.
Next, the wheel is removed, which then allows the drum to slip off the lug posts and the shoes.
The newer drum is then installed by gliding it on in reverse order and the brake shoes, as they are applied, will be adjusted before the entire replacement is completed.
When repairing any brake shoes, the other drums will often be repaired as well as it is important the braking strength is as predictable as possible.
The entire repair will take about two hours to perform, depending on the mechanic’s skillset.
What do the brake drums work?
The drum brakes, which are attached to the wheel hub, are designed to help you either slow down or come to a complete stop. As we mentioned, while most cars, often built after 1998, have rotors on all four wheels or just the rear wheels, you will find most of the cars prior to this year will have a drum attached to the wheels instead of the rotors. The friction between the brake shoe and the drums, depending on the pressure applied, will allow your vehicle to either slow down or come to a complete stop. Over time, the brake drum will wear, which leads to the necessary repair.
To picture this part, it’s shaped like a bowl, and the brake shoes, instead of the brake pads found in cars today, will push out against the side of the drums to create this force. The drum, being indirectly attached to the wheel so that when the brake shoes are forced against the wheel, the wheel has no choice but to stop as well.
Tips to know
As pressure is applied to the brake drums, the part will decrease in size over time, and this size will determine if the drum needs to be replaced.
In some cases, a brake drum can cause damage to the brake shoe. In any case, if the brake shoe is being replaced, then a mechanic will want to replace the drums as well, ultimately increasing the costs.
Brake drums cannot be rebuilt, only replaced.
Signs of a bad brake drum
As you brake, the car shakes or shifts unnaturally.
The car feels as its pulling to one side, either left or right, when applying pressure on the brake.
The handbrake doesn’t work as it should.
Noise is coming from the brakes due to the stress fractures caused by the brake drums being unable to dissipate the heat. This, in turn, can cause the noises being heard.
When to replace drum brakes
As you can imagine, both the front and rear brakes of the car can take quite the beating each time you apply the brakes. As we already mentioned, the front brakes in an older vehicle will be the discs, while the rear will be the drums, the part essential for the braking power. While most are built to last to at least 200,000 miles, some will wear out faster than this due to the other internal components that may be stress on the drum, causing them to eventually become smaller. With all of this being said, most drums can last 150,000 to 200,000+ miles, however, if you notice any of the symptoms mentioned prior, then it could be time for new brake drums.
