96 Taurus Oil Pump Complication

I had my car in the shop (no I don't work on it myself) and was told I needed to replace the oil pump. I agreed to that and got the dreaded phone call today that some part (don't you all laugh here) that has to do either with the distributor or the distribution of the oil had stripped gears. I was told this was a good thing, because it in turn saved my cam???? All I could say was...huh? And how much? Does anyone know what that part is called? I would appreciate any help! :banghead: