What can I do to save my lost files off from the SanDisk USB drive?

As drlucky noted there are literally hundreds of free recovery apps, unfortunately many of the “free” ones are only free to download, or only free to scan for lost files (and quaranteed to find some), then to actually use them to recover files costs $$$.

I have used the ones posted here http://forums.sandisk.com/t5/All-SanDisk-USB-Flash-Drives/repair-files-after-removing-cruzer-edge-USB-from-computer-during/m-p/232150#M978 with good results.  All are free.  I have also heard that PC Inspector Smart Recovery is a good app but I have not used it myself.