Zimmer Biomet (ZBH) 10-Q 12 Nov 13 2013 Q3 Quarterly report Financial data

Document_and_Entity_Informatio

Document and Entity Information	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013	Oct. 25, 2013
Document And Entity Information [Abstract]	'	'
Document Type	'10-Q	'
Amendment Flag	'false	'
Document Period End Date	30-Sep-13	'
Document Fiscal Year Focus	'2013	'
Document Fiscal Period Focus	'Q3	'
Trading Symbol	'ZMH	'
Entity Registrant Name	'ZIMMER HOLDINGS INC	'
Entity Central Index Key	'0001136869	'
Current Fiscal Year End Date	'--12-31	'
Entity Filer Category	'Large Accelerated Filer	'
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding	'	170,980,862

CONDENSED_CONSOLIDATED_STATEME

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF EARNINGS (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Millions, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
Income Statement [Abstract]	'	'	'	'
Net Sales	$1,074.30	$1,025.50	$3,382.70	$3,291.20
Cost of products sold	328.8	255.7	945.3	826.3
Gross Profit	745.5	769.8	2,437.40	2,464.90
Research and development	49.4	53.5	157.8	170.3
Selling, general and administrative	438	430	1,356.80	1,346.60
Certain claims	'	'	47	'
Special items (Note 2)	46.4	36.9	155.5	101.1
Operating expenses	533.8	520.4	1,717.10	1,618
Operating Profit	211.7	249.4	720.3	846.9
Interest income	3.8	3.8	11.4	10.7
Interest expense	-17.1	-18.3	-53.6	-54
Earnings before income taxes	198.4	234.9	678.1	803.6
Provision for income taxes	44.3	57.2	154.3	203
Net earnings	154.1	177.7	523.8	600.6
Less: Net loss attributable to noncontrolling interest	-0.3	-0.4	-1.3	-1.6
Net Earnings of Zimmer Holdings, Inc.	$154.40	$178.10	$525.10	$602.20
Earnings Per Common Share	'	'	'	'
Basic	$0.91	$1.02	$3.10	$3.43
Diluted	$0.90	$1.02	$3.07	$3.41
Weighted Average Common Shares Outstanding	'	'	'	'
Basic	170	174.1	169.2	175.6
Diluted	172.2	175.3	171.2	176.7
Cash Dividends Declared Per Common Share	$0.20	$0.18	$0.60	$0.36

CONDENSED_CONSOLIDATED_STATEME1

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
Statement Of Income And Comprehensive Income [Abstract]	'	'	'	'
Net earnings	$154.10	$177.70	$523.80	$600.60
Other Comprehensive Income:	'	'	'	'
Foreign currency cumulative translation adjustments	45.4	67.2	-51.4	20.1
Unrealized cash flow hedge gains/(losses), net of tax	-18.3	-35.9	24.5	-11.7
Reclassification adjustments on foreign currency hedges, net of tax	-3.5	0.1	-2	2.3
Unrealized gains/(losses) on securities, net of tax	0.9	0.3	-0.1	0.6
Adjustments to prior service cost and unrecognized actuarial assumptions, net of tax	3.4	4	9.9	28.5
Total Other Comprehensive Gain/(Loss)	27.9	35.7	-19.1	39.8
Comprehensive Income	182	213.4	504.7	640.4
Comprehensive loss attributable to the noncontrolling interest	-0.4	-0.3	-1.4	-1.7
Comprehensive Income attributable to Zimmer Holdings, Inc.	$182.40	$213.70	$506.10	$642.10

CONDENSED_CONSOLIDATED_BALANCE

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (USD $)	Sep. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Current Assets:	'	'
Cash and cash equivalents	$917.40	$884.30
Short-term investments	588.4	671.6
Accounts receivable, less allowance for doubtful accounts	898.9	884.6
Inventories	1,081.90	995.3
Prepaid expenses and other current assets	98	76.3
Deferred income taxes	252.6	196.6
Total Current Assets	3,837.20	3,708.70
Property, plant and equipment, net	1,234.10	1,210.70
Goodwill	2,602.80	2,571.80
Intangible assets, net	712.2	740.7
Other assets	971.1	780.5
Total Assets	9,357.40	9,012.40
Current Liabilities:	'	'
Accounts payable	146.6	184.1
Income taxes	41.7	22.8
Short-term debt	'	100.1
Other current liabilities	615.9	559
Total Current Liabilities	804.2	866
Other long-term liabilities	728.2	559.3
Long-term debt	1,686	1,720.80
Total Liabilities	3,218.40	3,146.10
Commitments and Contingencies (Note 14)	'	'
Stockholders' Equity:	'	'
Common stock, $0.01 par value, one billion shares authorized, 262.3 million shares issued in 2013 (257.1 million in 2012)	2.6	2.6
Paid-in capital	3,844.20	3,500.60
Retained earnings	7,510.60	7,085.90
Accumulated other comprehensive income	324.8	343.9
Treasury stock, 91.8 million shares in 2013 (85.5 million shares in 2012)	-5,546.50	-5,072.10
Total Zimmer Holdings, Inc. stockholders' equity	6,135.70	5,860.90
Noncontrolling interest	3.3	5.4
Total Stockholders' Equity	6,139	5,866.30
Total Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity	$9,357.40	$9,012.40

CONDENSED_CONSOLIDATED_BALANCE1

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (Parenthetical) (USD $)	Sep. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Statement Of Financial Position [Abstract]	'	'
Common stock, par value	$0.01	$0.01
Common stock, shares authorized	1,000,000,000	1,000,000,000
Common stock, shares issued	262,300,000	257,100,000
Treasury stock, shares	91,800,000	85,500,000

CONDENSED_CONSOLIDATED_STATEME2

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (USD $)	9 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
Cash flows provided by (used in) operating activities:	'	'
Net earnings	$523.80	$600.60
Adjustments to reconcile net earnings to cash provided by operating activities:	'	'
Depreciation and amortization	268.4	272.9
Share-based compensation	37.1	41.7
Income tax benefit from stock option exercises	29.1	10
Excess income tax benefit from stock option exercises	-7.3	-2.3
Inventory step-up	5.1	2.5
Changes in operating assets and liabilities, net of effect of acquisitions:	'	'
Income taxes	-50.2	29.7
Receivables	-33	-34.2
Inventories	-115.1	-53.3
Accounts payable and accrued expenses	-3.7	4
Other assets and liabilities	8.7	-87.7
Net cash provided by operating activities	662.9	783.9
Cash flows provided by (used in) investing activities:	'	'
Additions to instruments	-166.1	-104.7
Additions to other property, plant and equipment	-77.2	-71.4
Purchases of investments	-580.3	-801.7
Sales of investments	631.2	667.1
Investments in other assets	-79.9	-56.8
Net cash used in investing activities	-272.3	-367.5
Cash flows provided by (used in) financing activities:	'	'
Net payments under revolving credit facilities	-99.3	-149.9
Proceeds from term loans	'	147.3
Dividends paid to stockholders	-98.4	-63.2
Proceeds from employee stock compensation plans	325.4	34.1
Excess income tax benefit from stock option exercises	7.3	2.3
Debt issuance costs	'	-3.3
Purchase of additional shares from noncontrolling interest	-1.8	'
Repurchase of common stock	-478.3	-345.7
Net cash used in financing activities	-345.1	-378.4
Effect of exchange rates on cash and cash equivalents	-12.4	-4.8
Increase in cash and cash equivalents	33.1	33.2
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of year	884.3	768.3
Cash and cash equivalents, end of period	$917.40	$801.50

Basis_of_Presentation

Basis of Presentation	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Accounting Policies [Abstract]	'
Basis of Presentation	'
	1	Basis of Presentation
	The financial data presented herein is unaudited and should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes included in the 2012 Annual Report on Form 10-K filed by Zimmer Holdings, Inc. The condensed consolidated financial statements for the majority of our international subsidiaries are for periods that ended on September 25, 2013 and 2012. For these international subsidiaries, the three month results included in these condensed consolidated financial statements are for the period of June 26 through September 25 and the nine month results included in these condensed consolidated financial statements are for the period of December 26 through September 25 or the period of January 1 to September 25.
	In our opinion, the accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements include all adjustments necessary for a fair statement of the financial position, results of operations and cash flows for the interim periods presented. The December 31, 2012 condensed balance sheet data was derived from audited financial statements, but does not include all disclosures required by accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (GAAP). Results for interim periods should not be considered indicative of results for the full year. Certain amounts in the 2012 condensed consolidated financial statements have been reclassified to conform to the 2013 presentation.
	The words “we,” “us,” “our” and similar words refer to Zimmer Holdings, Inc. and its subsidiaries. Zimmer Holdings refers to the parent company only.

Significant_Accounting_Policie

Significant Accounting Policies	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Accounting Policies [Abstract]	'
Significant Accounting Policies	'
	2	Significant Accounting Policies
	Special Items — We recognize expenses resulting directly from our business combinations, employee termination benefits, certain R&D agreements, certain contract terminations, consulting and professional fees and asset impairment charges connected with global restructurings, operational and quality excellence initiatives, and other items as “Special items” in our condensed consolidated statement of earnings. “Special items” included (in millions):
			Three Months					Nine Months
			Ended					Ended
			September 30,					September 30,
			2013		2012			2013		2012
	Impairment/loss on disposal of assets		$	3.9	$	0.3		$	4.2	$	0.7
	Consulting and professional fees			16.7		25.6			67		63.1
	Employee severance and retention			3.6		1.8			9.8		6.2
	Dedicated project personnel			8.3		3.9			24.8		10.5
	Certain R&D agreements			—		—			0.8		—
	Relocated facilities			0.8		—			3.4		—
	Distributor acquisitions			—		—			0.3		0.4
	Certain litigation matters			9		3.3			26.9		13.2
	Contract terminations			0.6		2			2		4.6
	Contingent consideration adjustments			0.1		(2.0	)		6		(2.8	)
	Accelerated software amortization			1.5		1.5			4.5		3
	Other			1.9		0.5			5.8		2.2
	Special items		$	46.4	$	36.9		$	155.5	$	101.1
	In the nine months ended September 30, 2013, we eliminated approximately 150 positions as part of our ongoing operational excellence initiatives.
	In the nine months ended September 30, 2012, we announced our plans to outsource our Warsaw, Indiana distribution center to a third party service provider at a national transportation hub, among other organizational changes. Approximately 300 positions were affected by these actions.
	As a result of these actions, we incurred expenses related to severance benefits, share-based compensation acceleration and other employee termination-related costs. The vast majority of these termination benefits were provided in accordance with our existing policies or local government regulations and are considered ongoing benefits. These costs were accrued when they became probable and estimable and were recorded as part of other current liabilities. The majority of these costs have been paid or will be paid in the year they were accrued.
	Medical Device Excise Tax — As part of The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, in January 2013 we began paying a 2.3 percent medical device excise tax on a majority of our U.S sales. The excise tax is imposed on the first sale in the U.S. by the manufacturer, producer or importer of a medical device to either a third party or an affiliated distribution entity. We distribute a majority of our musculoskeletal products through an affiliated distribution entity. Under GAAP, excise taxes incurred to get inventory to its current location can be included in the cost of the inventory. Accordingly, we capitalize this excise tax as a part of inventory and recognize it as a cost of products sold when the inventory upon which the excise tax was assessed is sold to a third party on a first-in first-out basis. In the three and nine month periods ended September 30, 2013, the amount of medical device excise tax recognized in our condensed consolidated statement of earnings was not material.
	Recent Accounting Pronouncements — Effective January 1, 2013, we adopted the Financial Accounting Standard Board’s Accounting Standard Updates (ASUs) requiring reporting of amounts reclassified out of accumulated other comprehensive income (OCI) and balance sheet offsetting between derivative assets and liabilities. These ASUs only change financial statement disclosure requirements and therefore do not impact our financial position, results of operations or cash flows. See Note 7 for disclosures relating to OCI. See Note 9 for disclosures relating to balance sheet offsetting.
	There are no other recently issued accounting pronouncements that we have not yet adopted that are expected to have a material effect on our financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Inventories

Inventories	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Inventory Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Inventories	'
	3	Inventories
			September 30,		December 31,
			2013		2012
			(in millions)
	Finished goods		$	833.6	$	786.3
	Work in progress			71.7		52.3
	Raw materials			176.6		156.7
	Inventories		$	1,081.90	$	995.3
	In the three and nine month periods ended September, 30, 2013, we have recorded charges in cost of products sold of $52.5 million and $92.9 million, respectively, for excess and obsolete inventory. In the three month period ended September 30, 2013, the majority of those charges came from our decision to discontinue certain products. This resulted in charges of $39.1 million for the affected inventory and instruments. Of the $39.1 million, $36.2 million was related to inventory and reflected in cost of products sold and $2.9 million was related to instruments and reflected in “Special items”.

Property_Plant_and_Equipment

Property, Plant and Equipment	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Property Plant And Equipment [Abstract]	'
Property, Plant and Equipment	'
	4	Property, Plant and Equipment
			September 30,			December 31,
			2013			2012
			(in millions)
	Land		$	21.8		$	22.1
	Buildings and equipment			1,301.90			1,232.80
	Capitalized software costs			268.3			241.8
	Instruments			1,656.50			1,579.80
	Construction in progress			89.6			117.8
				3,338.10			3,194.30
	Accumulated depreciation			(2,104.0	)		(1,983.6	)
	Property, plant and equipment, net		$	1,234.10		$	1,210.70

Investments

Investments	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Investments Debt And Equity Securities [Abstract]	'
Investments	'
	5	Investments
	We invest in short and long-term investments classified as available-for-sale securities. Information regarding our investments is as follows (in millions):
			Amortized		Gross						Fair value
			Cost		Unrealized
					Gains			Losses
	As of September 30, 2013
	Corporate debt securities		$	443.5	$	0.3		$	(0.3	)	$	443.5
	U.S. government and agency debt securities			252.9		0.2			—			253.1
	Foreign government debt securities			3.1		—			—			3.1
	Commercial paper			89		—			—			89
	Certificates of deposit			67.3		—			—			67.3
	Total short and long-term investments		$	855.8	$	0.5		$	(0.3	)	$	856
	As of December 31, 2012
	Corporate debt securities		$	383.6	$	0.3		$	(0.1	)	$	383.8
	U.S. government and agency debt securities			295.8		0.1			—			295.9
	Foreign government debt securities			5		—			—			5
	Commercial paper			138.7		—			—			138.7
	Certificates of deposit			92.2		0.1			—			92.3
	Total short and long-term investments		$	915.3	$	0.5		$	(0.1	)	$	915.7
	Unrealized gains and losses on these investments are recorded in OCI in our condensed consolidated balance sheet.
	The following table shows the fair value and gross unrealized losses for the securities in an unrealized loss position deemed to be temporary (in millions):
			September 30, 2013					December 31, 2012
			Fair Value		Unrealized			Fair value			Unrealized
					Losses						Losses
	Corporate debt securities		$	197.4	$	(0.3	)	$	144.2		$	(0.1	)
	All securities in the table above have been in an unrealized loss position for less than twelve months. A total of 98 securities were in an unrealized loss position as of September 30, 2013.
	The unrealized losses on our investments in corporate debt securities were caused by increases in interest yields in the global credit markets. We believe the unrealized losses associated with these securities as of September 30, 2013 are temporary because we do not intend to sell these investments, and we do not believe we will be required to sell them before recovery of their amortized cost basis.
	The amortized cost and fair value of our available-for-sale fixed-maturity securities by contractual maturity are as follows (in millions):
			September 30, 2013
			Amortized		Fair Value
			Cost
	Due in one year or less		$	588.1	$	588.4
	Due after one year through two years			267.7		267.6
	Total		$	855.8	$	856

Debt

Debt	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Debt	'
	6	Debt
	Our debt consisted of the following (in millions):
			September 30,			December 31,
			2013			2012
	Short-term debt
	Senior Credit Facility		$	—		$	100
	Other short-term debt			—			0.1
	Total short-term debt		$	—		$	100.1
	Long-term debt
	Senior Notes due 2014		$	250		$	250
	Senior Notes due 2019			500			500
	Senior Notes due 2021			300			300
	Senior Notes due 2039			500			500
	Term Loan			118.6			138.6
	Other long-term credit facilities			0.8			—
	Debt discount			(1.6	)		(1.7	)
	Adjustment related to interest rate swaps			18.2			33.9
	Total long-term debt		$	1,686.00		$	1,720.80
	The estimated fair value of our Senior Notes as of September 30, 2013, based on quoted prices for the specific securities from transactions in over-the-counter markets (Level 2), was $1,647.7 million. The estimated fair value of the Term Loan as of September 30, 2013, based upon publicly available market yield curves and the terms of the debt (Level 2), was $118.4 million.

Accumulated_Other_Comprehensiv

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Equity [Abstract]	'
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income	'
	7	Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income
	OCI refers to certain gains and losses that under GAAP are included in comprehensive income but are excluded from net earnings as these amounts are initially recorded as an adjustment to stockholders’ equity. Amounts in OCI may be reclassified to net earnings upon the occurrence of certain events.
	Our OCI is comprised of foreign currency translation adjustments, unrealized gains and losses on cash flow hedges, unrealized gains and losses on available-for-sale securities, and amortization of prior service costs and unrecognized gains and losses in actuarial assumptions on our defined benefit plans. Foreign currency translation adjustments are reclassified to net earnings upon sale or upon a complete or substantially complete liquidation of an investment in a foreign entity. Unrealized gains and losses on cash flow hedges are reclassified to net earnings when the hedged item affects net earnings. Unrealized gains and losses on available-for-sale securities are reclassified to net earnings if we sell the security before maturity or if the unrealized loss is considered to be other-than-temporary. We typically hold our available-for-sale securities until maturity and are able to realize their amortized cost and therefore we do not have reclassification adjustments to net earnings on these securities. Amounts related to defined benefit plans that are in OCI are reclassified over the service periods of employees in the plan. The reclassification amounts are allocated to all employees in the plans and therefore the reclassified amounts may become part of inventory to the extent they are considered direct labor costs. See Note 11 for more information on our defined benefit plans.
	The following table shows the changes in the components of OCI, net of tax (in millions):
			Foreign			Cash			Unrealized			Defined
			Currency			Flow			Gains on			Benefit
			Translation			Hedges			Securities			Plan Items
	Balance December 31, 2012		$	445.5		$	4.1		$	0.4		$	(106.1	)
	OCI before reclassifications			(51.4	)		24.5			(0.1	)		—
	Reclassifications			—			(2.0	)		—			9.9
	Balance September 30, 2013		$	394.1		$	26.6		$	0.3		$	(96.2	)
	The following table shows the reclassification adjustments from OCI (in millions):
			Amount of Gain / (Loss)
			Reclassified from OCI
			Three Months Ended						Nine Months Ended						Location on
			September 30,						September 30,						Statement of Earnings
	Component of OCI		2013			2012			2013			2012
	Cash flow hedges
	Foreign exchange forward contracts		$	5.2		$	(1.6	)	$	3.5		$	(9.4	)	Cost of products sold
	Foreign exchange options			—			(0.3	)		(0.2	)		(0.4	)	Cost of products sold
	Cross-currency interest rate swaps			—			—			—			0.2		Interest expense
				5.2			(1.9	)		3.3			(9.6	)	Total before tax
				1.7			(1.8	)		1.3			(7.3	)	Provision for income taxes
			$	3.5		$	(0.1	)	$	2		$	(2.3	)	Net of tax
	Defined benefit plans
	Prior service cost		$	1		$	1.3		$	2.9		$	2.7		*
	Unrecognized actuarial (loss)			(4.7	)		(3.2	)		(14.0	)		(9.9	)	*
				(3.7	)		(1.9	)		(11.1	)		(7.2	)	Total before tax
				(0.3	)		2.1			(1.2	)		0.4		Provision for income taxes
			$	(3.4	)	$	(4.0	)	$	(9.9	)	$	(7.6	)	Net of tax
	Total reclassifications		$	0.1		$	(4.1	)	$	(7.9	)	$	(9.9	)	Net of tax
	*	These OCI components are included in the computation of net periodic pension expense (see Note 11).
	The following table shows the tax effects on each component of OCI recognized in our condensed consolidated statements of comprehensive income (in millions):
			Three Months Ended September 30, 2013									Nine Months Ended September 30, 2013
			Before Tax			Tax			Net of Tax			Before Tax			Tax			Net of Tax
	Foreign currency cumulative translation adjustments		$	45.4		$	—		$	45.4		$	(51.4	)	$	—		$	(51.4	)
	Unrealized cash flow hedge gains/(losses)			(21.4	)		(3.1	)		(18.3	)		46.3			21.8			24.5
	Reclassification adjustments on foreign currency hedges			(5.2	)		(1.7	)		(3.5	)		(3.3	)		(1.3	)		(2.0	)
	Unrealized gains on securities			0.9			—			0.9			(0.1	)		—			(0.1	)
	Adjustments to prior service cost and unrecognized actuarial assumptions			3.7			0.3			3.4			11.1			1.2			9.9
	Total Other Comprehensive Gain/(Loss)		$	23.4		$	(4.5	)	$	27.9		$	2.6		$	21.7		$	(19.1	)
			Three Months Ended September 30, 2012									Nine Months Ended September 30, 2012
			Before Tax			Tax			Net of Tax			Before Tax			Tax			Net of Tax
	Foreign currency cumulative translation adjustments		$	67.2		$	—		$	67.2		$	20.1		$	—		$	20.1
	Unrealized cash flow hedge gains			(46.4	)		(10.5	)		(35.9	)		(15.7	)		(4.0	)		(11.7	)
	Reclassification adjustments on foreign currency hedges			1.9			1.8			0.1			9.6			7.3			2.3
	Unrealized gains on securities			0.3			—			0.3			0.6			—			0.6
	Adjustments to prior service cost and unrecognized actuarial assumptions			1.9			(2.1	)		4			44.9			16.4			28.5
	Total Other Comprehensive Gain/(Loss)		$	24.9		$	(10.8	)	$	35.7		$	59.5		$	19.7		$	39.8

Fair_Value_Measurement_of_Asse

Fair Value Measurement of Assets and Liabilities	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]	'
Fair Value Measurement of Assets and Liabilities	'
	8	Fair Value Measurement of Assets and Liabilities
	The following assets and liabilities are recorded at fair value on a recurring basis (in millions):
			As of September 30, 2013
					Fair Value Measurements at Reporting
					Date Using:
	Description		Recorded		Quoted		Significant		Significant
			Balance		Prices in		Other		Unobservable
					Active		Observable		Inputs
					Markets for		Inputs		(Level 3)
					Identical		(Level 2)
					Assets
					(Level 1)
	Assets
	Available-for-sale securities
	Corporate debt securities		$	443.5	$	—	$	443.5	$	—
	U.S. government and agency debt securities			253.1		—		253.1		—
	Foreign government debt securities			3.1		—		3.1		—
	Commercial paper			89		—		89		—
	Certificates of deposit			67.3		—		67.3		—
	Total available-for-sale securities			856		—		856		—
	Derivatives, current and long-term
	Foreign currency forward contracts and options			53.8		—		53.8		—
	Interest rate swaps			19.9		—		19.9		—
			$	929.7	$	—	$	929.7	$	—
	Liabilities
	Derivatives, current and long-term
	Foreign currency forward contracts and options			14.4		—		14.4		—
	Interest rate swaps			1.7		—		1.7		—
			$	16.1	$	—	$	16.1	$	—
			As of December 31, 2012
					Fair Value Measurements at Reporting
					Date Using:
	Description		Recorded		Quoted		Significant		Significant
			Balance		Prices in		Other		Unobservable
					Active		Observable		Inputs
					Markets for		Inputs		(Level 3)
					Identical		(Level 2)
					Assets
					(Level 1)
	Assets
	Available-for-sale securities
	Corporate debt securities		$	383.8	$	—	$	383.8	$	—
	U.S. government and agency debt securities			295.9		—		295.9		—
	Foreign government debt securities			5		—		5		—
	Commercial paper			138.7		—		138.7		—
	Certificates of deposit			92.3		—		92.3		—
	Total available-for-sale securities			915.7		—		915.7		—
	Derivatives, current and long-term
	Foreign currency forward contracts and options			28.4		—		28.4		—
	Interest rate swaps			33.9		—		33.9		—
			$	978	$	—	$	978	$	—
	Liabilities
	Derivatives, current and long-term
	Foreign currency forward contracts and options		$	10.8	$	—	$	10.8	$	—
	We value our available-for-sale securities using a market approach based on broker prices for identical assets in over-the-counter markets and we perform ongoing assessments of counterparty credit risk.
	We value our foreign currency forward contracts and foreign currency options using a market approach based on foreign currency exchange rates obtained from active markets and we perform ongoing assessments of counterparty credit risk.
	We value our interest rate swaps using a market approach based on publicly available market yield curves and the terms of our swaps and we perform ongoing assessments of counterparty credit risk.

Derivative_Instruments_and_Hed

Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Derivative Instruments And Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities	'
	9	Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities
	We are exposed to certain market risks relating to our ongoing business operations, including foreign currency exchange rate risk, commodity price risk, interest rate risk and credit risk. We manage our exposure to these and other market risks through regular operating and financing activities. Currently, the only risks that we manage through the use of derivative instruments are interest rate risk and foreign currency exchange rate risk.
	Interest Rate Risk
	Derivatives Designated as Fair Value Hedges
	We use interest rate derivative instruments to manage our exposure to interest rate movements by converting fixed-rate debt into variable-rate debt. Under these agreements, we agree to exchange, at specified intervals, the difference between fixed and variable interest amounts calculated by reference to an agreed-upon notional principal amount. The objective of the instruments is to more closely align interest expense with interest income received on cash and cash equivalents. These derivative instruments are designated as fair value hedges under GAAP. Changes in the fair value of the derivative instrument are recorded in current earnings and are offset by gains or losses on the underlying debt instrument.
	We have multiple fixed-to-variable interest rate swap agreements that we have designated as fair value hedges of the fixed interest rate obligations on our Senior Notes due 2019 and 2021. The total notional amounts are $250 million and $300 million for the Senior Notes due 2019 and 2021, respectively. On the interest rate swap agreements for the Senior Notes due 2019, we receive a fixed interest rate of 4.625 percent and pay variable interest equal to the three-month LIBOR plus an average of 133 basis points. On the interest rate swap agreements for the Senior Notes due 2021, we receive a fixed interest rate of 3.375 percent and pay variable interest equal to the three-month LIBOR plus an average of 99 basis points.
	Foreign Currency Exchange Rate Risk
	We operate on a global basis and are exposed to the risk that our financial condition, results of operations and cash flows could be adversely affected by changes in foreign currency exchange rates. To reduce the potential effects of foreign currency exchange rate movements on net earnings, we enter into derivative financial instruments in the form of foreign currency exchange forward contracts and options with major financial institutions. We are primarily exposed to foreign currency exchange rate risk with respect to transactions and net assets denominated in Euros, Swiss Francs, Japanese Yen, British Pounds, Canadian Dollars, Australian Dollars, Korean Won, Swedish Krona, Czech Koruna, Thai Baht, Taiwan Dollars, South African Rand, Russian Rubles and Indian Rupees. We do not use derivative financial instruments for trading or speculative purposes.
	Derivatives Designated as Cash Flow Hedges
	Our revenues are generated in various currencies throughout the world. However, a significant amount of our inventory is produced in U.S. Dollars. Therefore, movements in foreign currency exchange rates may have different proportional effects on our revenues compared to our cost of products sold. To minimize the effects of foreign currency exchange rate movements on cash flows, we hedge intercompany sales of inventory expected to occur within the next 30 months with foreign currency exchange forward contracts and options. We designate these derivative instruments as cash flow hedges.
	We perform quarterly assessments of hedge effectiveness by verifying and documenting the critical terms of the hedge instrument and that forecasted transactions have not changed significantly. We also assess on a quarterly basis whether there have been adverse developments regarding the risk of a counterparty default. For derivatives which qualify as hedges of future cash flows, the effective portion of changes in fair value is temporarily recorded in other comprehensive income and then recognized in cost of products sold when the hedged item affects net earnings. The ineffective portion of a derivative’s change in fair value, if any, is immediately reported in cost of products sold.
	For foreign currency exchange forward contracts and options outstanding at September 30, 2013, we had obligations to purchase U.S. Dollars and sell Euros, Japanese Yen, British Pounds, Canadian Dollars, Australian Dollars, Korean Won, Swedish Krona, Czech Koruna, Thai Baht, Taiwan Dollars, South African Rand, Russian Rubles and Indian Rupees and obligations to purchase Swiss Francs and sell U.S. Dollars. These derivatives mature at dates ranging from October 2013 through March 2015. As of September 30, 2013, the notional amounts of outstanding forward contracts and options entered into with third parties to purchase U.S. Dollars were $1,514.0 million. As of September 30, 2013, the notional amounts of outstanding forward contracts and options entered into with third parties to purchase Swiss Francs were $333.1 million.
	Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments
	We enter into foreign currency exchange forward contracts with terms of one month to manage currency exposures for monetary assets and liabilities denominated in a currency other than an entity’s functional currency. As a result, any foreign currency remeasurement gains/losses recognized in earnings are generally offset with gains/losses on the foreign currency exchange forward contracts in the same reporting period. These offsetting gains/losses are recorded in cost of products sold as the underlying assets and liabilities exposed to remeasurement include inventory-related transactions. These contracts are settled on the last day of each reporting period. Therefore, there is no outstanding balance related to these contracts recorded on the balance sheet as of the end of the reporting period. The notional amounts of these contracts are typically in a range of $1.2 billion to $1.7 billion per quarter.
	Foreign Currency Exchange and Interest Rate Risk
	Derivatives Designated as Cash Flow Hedges
	In previous years, we entered into cross-currency interest rate swap agreements that matured in the first quarter of 2012. We designated these swaps as cash flow hedges of the foreign currency exchange and interest rate risks. We have not entered into any other similar swap agreements since the first quarter of 2012.
	Income Statement Presentation
	Derivatives Designated as Fair Value Hedges
	Derivative instruments designated as fair value hedges had the following effects on our condensed consolidated statements of earnings (in millions):
							Gain / (Loss) on Instrument																Gain / (Loss) on Hedged Item
			Location  on				Three Months								Nine Months								Three Months								Nine Months
			Statement of Earnings				Ended								Ended								Ended								Ended
							September 30,								September 30,								September 30,								September 30,
	Derivative Instrument						2013				2012				2013				2012				2013				2012				2013				2012
	Interest rate swaps			Interest expense			$	(1.6	)		$	2.7			$	(15.7	)		$	7.8			$	1.6			$	(2.7	)		$	15.7			$	(7.8	)
	We had no ineffective fair value hedging instruments during the three and nine month periods ended September 30, 2013 and 2012.
	Derivatives Designated as Cash Flow Hedges
	Derivative instruments designated as cash flow hedges had the following effects, before taxes, on OCI and net earnings on our condensed consolidated statements of earnings, condensed consolidated statements of comprehensive income and condensed consolidated balance sheets (in millions):
			Amount of																		Amount of
			Gain / (Loss)																		Gain / (Loss)
			Recognized in OCI																		Reclassified from OCI
			Three Months								Nine Months								Location on		Three Months								Nine Months
			Ended								Ended								Statement of  Earnings		Ended								Ended
			September 30,								September 30,										September 30,								September 30,
	Derivative Instrument		2013				2012				2013				2012						2013				2012				2013				2012
	Foreign exchange forward contracts		$	(21.4	)		$	(46.1	)		$	46.6			$	(14.3	)		Cost of products sold		$	5.2			$	(1.6	)		$	3.5			$	(9.4	)
	Foreign exchange options			—				(0.3	)			(0.3	)			(1.4	)		Cost of products sold			—				(0.3	)			(0.2	)			(0.4	)
	Cross-currency interest rate swaps			—				—				—				—			Interest expense			—				—				—				0.2
			$	(21.4	)		$	(46.4	)		$	46.3			$	(15.7	)				$	5.2			$	(1.9	)		$	3.3			$	(9.6	)
	The net amount recognized in earnings during the three and nine month periods ended September 30, 2013 and 2012 due to ineffectiveness and amounts excluded from the assessment of hedge effectiveness was not significant.
	The fair value of outstanding derivative instruments designated as cash flow hedges and recorded on the balance sheet at September 30, 2013, together with settled derivatives where the hedged item has not yet affected earnings, was a net unrealized gain of $48.0 million, or $26.6 million after taxes, which is deferred in OCI. Of the net unrealized gain, $23.3 million, or $12.2 million after taxes, is expected to be reclassified to earnings over the next twelve months.
	Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments
	The following gains/(losses) from these derivative instruments were recognized on our condensed consolidated statements of earnings (in millions):
			Location  on				Three Months								Nine Months
			Statement of Earnings				Ended								Ended
							September 30,								September 30,
	Derivative Instrument						2013				2012				2013				2012
	Foreign exchange forward contracts			Cost of products sold			$	(7.5	)		$	(9.8	)		$	0.1			$	(1.2	)
	This impact does not include any offsetting gains/losses recognized in earnings as a result of foreign currency remeasurement of monetary assets and liabilities denominated in a currency other than an entity’s functional currency.
	Balance Sheet Presentation
	As of September 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012, all derivative instruments designated as fair value hedges and cash flow hedges are recorded at fair value on the balance sheet. On our condensed consolidated balance sheets, we recognize individual forward contracts and options with the same counterparty on a net asset/liability basis if we have a master netting agreement with the counterparty. Under these master netting agreements, we are able to settle derivative instrument assets and liabilities with the same counterparty in a single transaction, instead of settling each derivative instrument separately. We have master netting agreements with all of our counterparties. The fair value of derivative instruments on a gross basis is as follows (in millions):
			September 30, 2013						December 31, 2012
			Balance		Fair				Balance		Fair
			Sheet		Value				Sheet		Value
			Location						Location
	Asset Derivatives
	Foreign exchange forward contracts		Other current assets		$	46.6			Other current assets		$	29.7
	Foreign exchange options		Other current assets			—			Other current assets			0.6
	Foreign exchange forward contracts		Other assets			21.8			Other assets			19.8
	Interest rate swaps		Other assets			19.9			Other assets			33.9
	Total asset derivatives				$	88.3					$	84
	Liability Derivatives
Foreign exchange forward contracts		Other current liabilities		$	16.2			Other current liabilities		$	20.2
Foreign exchange forward contracts		Other long-term liabilities			12.8			Other long-term liabilities			12.3
Interest rate swaps		Other long-term liabilities			1.7			Other long-term liabilities			—
Total liability derivatives				$	30.7					$	32.5
The table below presents the effects of our master netting agreements on our condensed consolidated balance sheets (in millions):
				As of September 30, 2013												As of December 31, 2012
Description		Location		Gross				Offset				Net Amount				Gross				Offset				Net Amount
				Amount								in Balance				Amount								in Balance
												Sheet												Sheet
Asset Derivatives
Cash flow hedges		Other current assets		$	46.6			$	8.3			$	38.3			$	30.3			$	15.2			$	15.1
Cash flow hedges		Other assets			21.8				6.3				15.5				19.8				6.5				13.3
Liability Derivatives
Cash flow hedges		Other current liabilities			16.2				8.3				7.9				20.2				15.2				5
Cash flow hedges		Other long-term liabilities			12.8				6.3				6.5				12.3				6.5				5.8

Income_Taxes

Income Taxes	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Income Taxes	'
	10	Income Taxes
	We operate on a global basis and are subject to numerous and complex tax laws and regulations. Our income tax filings are regularly under audit in multiple federal, state and foreign jurisdictions. Income tax audits may require an extended period of time to reach resolution and may result in significant income tax adjustments when interpretation of tax laws or allocation of company profits is disputed. The net amount of tax liability for unrecognized tax benefits may change within the next twelve months due to changes in audit status, expiration of statutes of limitations and other events which could impact our determination of unrecognized tax benefits. Currently, we cannot reasonably estimate the amount by which our unrecognized tax benefits may change.
	During the second quarter of 2011, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) concluded their examination of our U.S. federal returns for years 2005 through 2007 and issued income tax assessments reallocating profits between certain of our U.S. and foreign subsidiaries. During the third quarter of 2013, the IRS examination division issued Notices of Proposed Adjustment (NOPAs) for tax years 2008 and 2009. These NOPAs also relate to intercompany pricing between certain of our U.S. and foreign subsidiaries. We continue to pursue resolution of the disputed tax matters for years 2005 through 2009 with the IRS. The ultimate resolution of this matter is uncertain and could have a material impact on our income tax expense, results of operations, and cash flows for future periods.
	In the three and nine month periods ended September 30, 2013, our effective tax rate was 22.3 percent and 22.8 percent, respectively. Our effective tax rate was lower than the U.S. statutory income tax rate of 35 percent primarily due to income earned in foreign locations with lower tax rates.

Retirement_Benefit_Plans

Retirement Benefit Plans	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Compensation And Retirement Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Retirement Benefit Plans	'
	11	Retirement Benefit Plans
	We have defined benefit pension plans covering certain U.S. and Puerto Rico employees. The employees who are not participating in the defined benefit plans receive additional benefits under our defined contribution plans. Plan benefits are primarily based on years of credited service and the participant’s compensation. In addition to the U.S. and Puerto Rico defined benefit pension plans, we sponsor various foreign pension arrangements, including retirement and termination benefit plans required by local law or coordinated with government sponsored plans.
	The components of net periodic pension expense for our U.S. and foreign defined benefit retirement plans are as follows (in millions):
			Three Months						Nine Months
			Ended						Ended
			September 30,						September 30,
			2013			2012			2013			2012
	Service cost		$	7		$	6.2		$	21.1		$	19.1
	Interest cost			4.7			4.6			14.1			14.2
	Expected return on plan assets			(8.9	)		(8.2	)		(26.7	)		(24.7	)
	Settlement			—			—			—			0.7
	Amortization of prior service cost			(1.0	)		(1.3	)		(2.9	)		(2.7	)
	Amortization of unrecognized actuarial loss			4.7			3.2			14			9.9
	Net periodic pension expense		$	6.5		$	4.5		$	19.6		$	16.5
	We contributed $20.0 million during the nine month period ended September 30, 2013 to our U.S. and Puerto Rico defined benefit plans and do not expect to contribute additional funds to these plans during the remainder of 2013. We contributed $11.3 million to our foreign-based defined benefit plans in the nine month period ended September 30, 2013 and expect to contribute $3.4 million to these foreign-based plans during the remainder of 2013.
	In March 2012, we amended our U.S. defined benefit pension plan which led us to remeasure our plan assets and obligations. Accordingly, the resulting remeasurement was reflected in our condensed consolidated statements of earnings and condensed consolidated statements of comprehensive income.

Earnings_Per_Share

Earnings Per Share	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]	'
Earnings Per Share	'
	12	Earnings Per Share
	The following is a reconciliation of weighted average shares for the basic and diluted shares computations (in millions):
			Three Months				Nine Months
			Ended				Ended
			September 30,				September 30,
			2013		2012		2013		2012
	Weighted average shares outstanding for basic net earnings per share			170		174.1		169.2		175.6
	Effect of dilutive stock options and other equity awards			2.2		1.2		2		1.1
	Weighted average shares outstanding for diluted net earnings per share			172.2		175.3		171.2		176.7
	During the three and nine month periods ended September 30, 2013, an average of 1.4 million options and 4.2 million options, respectively, to purchase shares of common stock were not included in the computation of diluted earnings per share because the exercise prices of these options were greater than the average market price of the common stock. During the three and nine month periods ended September 30, 2012, an average of 11.9 million options and 12.3 million options, respectively, were not included in the computation.
	In the three month period ended September 30, 2013, we repurchased 0.2 million shares of our common stock at an average price of $83.92 per share for a total cash outlay of $17.5 million, including commissions. In the nine month period ended September 30, 2013, we repurchased 6.4 million shares of our common stock at an average price of $74.20 per share for a total cash outlay of $478.3 million, including commissions. As of September 30, 2013, $536.4 million remained authorized under a $1.5 billion repurchase program, which will expire on December 31, 2014.

Segment_Information

Segment Information	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Segment Reporting [Abstract]	'
Segment Information	'
	13	Segment Information
	We design, develop, manufacture and market orthopaedic reconstructive implants, biologics, dental implants, spinal implants, trauma products and related surgical products which include surgical supplies and instruments designed to aid in surgical procedures and post-operation rehabilitation. We also provide other healthcare-related services. We manage operations through three major geographic segments – the Americas, which is comprised principally of the U.S. and includes other North, Central and South American markets; Europe, which is comprised principally of Europe and includes the Middle East and African markets; and Asia Pacific, which is comprised primarily of Japan and includes other Asian and Pacific markets. This structure is the basis for our reportable segment information discussed below. Management evaluates reportable segment performance based upon segment operating profit exclusive of operating expenses pertaining to share-based payment expense, inventory step-up and certain other inventory and manufacturing related charges, “Certain claims,” goodwill impairment, “Special items,” and global operations and corporate functions. Global operations and corporate functions include research, development engineering, medical education, brand management, corporate legal, finance, and human resource functions, U.S., Puerto Rico and Ireland-based manufacturing operations and logistics and intangible asset amortization resulting from business combination accounting. Intercompany transactions have been eliminated from segment operating profit.
	Net sales and segment operating profit are as follows (in millions):
			Net Sales				Operating Profit
			Three Months				Three Months
			Ended				Ended
			September 30,				September 30,
			2013		2012		2013			2012
	Americas		$	632.9	$	583.5	$	312.6		$	291
	Europe			255		245.6		63.3			65.5
	Asia Pacific			186.4		196.4		76.8			75.3
	Total		$	1,074.30	$	1,025.50
	Share-based compensation							(10.9	)		(13.9	)
	Inventory step-up and other inventory and manufacturing related charges							(43.8	)		(0.5	)
	Special items							(46.4	)		(36.9	)
	Global operations and corporate functions							(139.9	)		(131.1	)
	Operating profit						$	211.7		$	249.4
			Net Sales				Operating Profit
			Nine Months				Nine Months
			Ended				Ended
			September 30,				September 30,
			2013		2012		2013			2012
	Americas		$	1,927.70	$	1,832.20	$	958.4		$	927.8
	Europe			870		851.6		243.7			254.7
	Asia Pacific			585		607.4		239.4			232
	Total		$	3,382.70	$	3,291.20
	Share-based compensation							(37.1	)		(41.7	)
	Inventory step-up and other inventory and manufacturing related charges							(57.7	)		(2.5	)
	Certain claims							(47.0	)		—
	Special items							(155.5	)		(101.1	)
	Global operations and corporate functions							(423.9	)		(422.3	)
	Operating profit						$	720.3		$	846.9
	Beginning in 2013, our Knees product category net sales include certain early intervention products that are primarily used in knee procedures. In 2012, these products were included in the Surgical and other product category. Net sales in the three and nine month periods ended September 30, 2012 related to these products have been reclassified to conform to the 2013 presentation. Net sales by product category are as follows (in millions):
			Three Months				Nine Months
			Ended				Ended
			September 30,				September 30,
			2013		2012		2013			2012
	Reconstructive
	Knees		$	434.5	$	411.6	$	1,386.50		$	1,350.80
	Hips			308.3		308.5		977.5			993
	Extremities			45.5		39.7		141.9			127
				788.3		759.8		2,505.90			2,470.80
	Dental			55.1		54.7		176.2			176.4
	Trauma			78.5		74.5		234.6			223.9
	Spine			48		49.8		149.9			155.4
	Surgical and other			104.4		86.7		316.1			264.7
	Total		$	1,074.30	$	1,025.50	$	3,382.70		$	3,291.20

Commitments_and_Contingencies

Commitments and Contingencies	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Commitments And Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Commitments and Contingencies	'
	14	Commitments and Contingencies
	On a quarterly and annual basis, we review relevant information with respect to loss contingencies and update our accruals, disclosures and estimates of reasonably possible losses or ranges of loss based on such reviews. We establish liabilities for loss contingencies when it is probable that a loss has been incurred and the amount of the loss can be reasonably estimated. For matters where a loss is believed to be reasonably possible, but not probable, no accrual has been made.
	Litigation
	Durom® Cup-related claims: On July 22, 2008, we temporarily suspended marketing and distribution of the Durom Acetabular Component (Durom Cup) in the U.S. Subsequently, a number of product liability lawsuits and other claims have been asserted against us. We have settled some of these claims and the others are still pending. Additional claims may be asserted in the future.
	Since 2008, we have recognized expense of $450.2 million for Durom Cup-related claims, including, as previously reported, $47.0 million during the three month period ended June 30, 2013. We increased our estimate of our total liability for these claims during the three month period ended June 30, 2013 based on our review of the most recent claims information then available. We did not record any expense for Durom Cup-related claims during the three month period ended September 30, 2013 or during the three and nine month periods ended September 30, 2012.
	We maintain insurance for product liability claims, subject to self-insurance retention requirements. In 2008, we notified our insurance carriers of potential claims related to the Durom Cup. Based upon our most recent estimates for liabilities associated with the Durom Cup, we believe we may exhaust our self-insured retention under our insurance program. In this event, we would have a claim for insurance proceeds for ultimate losses which exceed the self-insured retention amount, subject to a 20 percent co-payment requirement and a cap. We believe our contracts with the insurance carriers are enforceable for these claims and, therefore, we believe it is probable that we would recover some amount from our insurance carriers if our ultimate losses exceed our self-insured retention. We have recognized a $218.0 million receivable in “Other assets” on our condensed consolidated balance sheet as of September 30, 2013 for estimated insurance recoveries, which reduced “Certain claims” expense. As is customary in this process, our insurance carriers have reserved all rights under their respective policies and could still ultimately deny coverage for some or all of our insurance claims.
	Our estimate as of September 30, 2013 of the remaining liability for all Durom Cup-related claims is $391.6 million, of which $50.0 million is classified as short-term in “Other current liabilities” and $341.6 million is classified as long-term in “Other long-term liabilities” on our consolidated balance sheet. We expect to pay the majority of the Durom Cup-related claims within the next five years.
	Our understanding of clinical outcomes with the Durom Cup continues to evolve. We rely on significant estimates in determining the provisions for Durom Cup-related claims, including the number of claims that we will receive and the average amount we will pay per claim. The actual number of claims that we receive and the amount we pay per claim may differ from our estimates. Among other factors, since our understanding of the clinical outcomes is still evolving, we cannot reasonably estimate the possible loss or range of loss that may result from Durom Cup-related claims in excess of the losses we have accrued.
	Margo and Daniel Polett v. Zimmer, Inc. et al.: On August 20, 2008, the Poletts filed an action against us and an unrelated third party, Public Communications, Inc. (PCI), in the Court of Common Pleas, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania seeking an unspecified amount of damages for injuries and loss of consortium allegedly suffered by Mrs. Polett and her spouse, respectively. The complaint alleged that defendants were negligent in connection with Mrs. Polett’s participation in a promotional video featuring one of our knee products. The case was tried in November 2010 and the jury returned a verdict in favor of plaintiffs. The jury awarded $27.6 million in compensatory damages and apportioned fault 30 percent to plaintiffs, 34 percent to us and 36 percent to PCI. Under applicable law, we may be liable for any portion of the damages apportioned to PCI that it does not pay. On December 2, 2010, we and PCI filed a Motion for Post-Trial Relief seeking a judgment notwithstanding the verdict, a new trial or a remittitur. On June 10, 2011, the trial court entered an order denying our Motion for Post-Trial Relief and affirming the jury verdict in full and entered judgment for $20.3 million against us and PCI. On June 29, 2011, we filed a Notice of Appeal to the Superior Court of Pennsylvania and posted a bond for the verdict amount plus interest. Oral argument before the appellate court in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania was held as scheduled on March 13, 2012. On March 1, 2013, the Superior Court of Pennsylvania vacated the $27.6 million judgment and remanded the case for a new trial. On March 15, 2013, plaintiffs filed a motion for re-argument en banc, and on March 28, 2013, we filed our response in opposition. On May 9, 2013, the Superior Court of Pennsylvania granted plaintiffs’ motion for re-argument en banc. Oral argument (re-argument en banc) before the Superior Court of Pennsylvania was held on October 16, 2013. A ruling has not yet been issued. Although we are defending this lawsuit vigorously, its ultimate resolution is uncertain.
	NexGen® Knee System claims: Following a wide-spread advertising campaign conducted by certain law firms beginning in 2010, a number of product liability lawsuits have been filed against us in various jurisdictions. The majority of the cases are currently pending in a federal Multidistrict Litigation in the Northern District of Illinois. Other cases are pending in other state and federal courts, and additional lawsuits may be filed. As of September 30, 2013, discovery in these lawsuits was underway and no trial dates had been set. We have not accrued an estimated loss relating to these lawsuits because we believe the plaintiffs’ allegations are not consistent with the record of clinical success for these products. As a result, we do not believe that it is probable that we have incurred a liability, and we cannot reasonably estimate any loss that might eventually be incurred. Although we are vigorously defending these lawsuits, their ultimate resolution is uncertain.
	Intellectual Property-Related Claims
	Patent infringement lawsuit: On December 10, 2010, Stryker Corporation and related entities (Stryker) filed suit against us in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Michigan, alleging that certain of our Pulsavac Plus Wound Debridement Products infringe three U.S. patents assigned to Stryker. The case was tried beginning on January 15, 2013, and on February 5, 2013, the jury found that we infringed certain claims of the subject patents. The jury awarded $70.0 million in monetary damages for lost profits. The jury also found that we willfully infringed the subject patents. We filed multiple post-trial motions, including a motion seeking a new trial. On August 7, 2013, the trial court issued a ruling denying all of our motions and awarded treble damages and attorneys’ fees to Stryker. We filed a notice of appeal to the Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit to seek reversal of both the jury’s verdict and the trial court’s rulings on our post-trial motions. That appeal is pending. We have not accrued an estimated loss related to this matter in our consolidated statement of earnings for the quarter ended September 30, 2013 or any prior period because we do not believe that it is probable that we have incurred a liability. Although we believe we have strong grounds to reverse the trial court’s judgment, the ultimate resolution of this matter is uncertain. In the future we could be required to record a charge of up to $210.0 million plus interest and attorneys’ fees that could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations.
	Regulatory Matters
	In September 2012, we received a warning letter from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) citing concerns relating to certain manufacturing and validation processes pertaining to Trilogy® Acetabular System products manufactured at our Ponce, Puerto Rico manufacturing facility. We have provided detailed responses to the FDA as to our corrective actions and will continue to work expeditiously to address the issues identified by the FDA during inspections in Ponce. As of September 30, 2013, the warning letter remains pending. Until the violations are corrected, we may be subject to additional regulatory action by the FDA, including seizure, injunction and/or civil monetary penalties. Additionally, requests for Certificates to Foreign Governments related to products manufactured at the Ponce facility may not be granted and premarket approval applications for Class III devices to which the quality system regulation deviations are reasonably related will not be approved until the violations have been corrected. In addition to responding to the warning letter described above, we are in the process of addressing various FDA Form 483 inspectional observations at certain of our manufacturing facilities. The ultimate outcome of these matters is presently uncertain.

Significant_Accounting_Policie1

Significant Accounting Policies (Policies)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Accounting Policies [Abstract]	'
Special Items	'
	Special Items — We recognize expenses resulting directly from our business combinations, employee termination benefits, certain R&D agreements, certain contract terminations, consulting and professional fees and asset impairment charges connected with global restructurings, operational and quality excellence initiatives, and other items as “Special items” in our condensed consolidated statement of earnings. “Special items” included (in millions):
		Three Months					Nine Months
		Ended					Ended
		September 30,					September 30,
		2013		2012			2013		2012
	Impairment/loss on disposal of assets	$	3.9	$	0.3		$	4.2	$	0.7
	Consulting and professional fees		16.7		25.6			67		63.1
	Employee severance and retention		3.6		1.8			9.8		6.2
	Dedicated project personnel		8.3		3.9			24.8		10.5
	Certain R&D agreements		—		—			0.8		—
	Relocated facilities		0.8		—			3.4		—
	Distributor acquisitions		—		—			0.3		0.4
	Certain litigation matters		9		3.3			26.9		13.2
	Contract terminations		0.6		2			2		4.6
	Contingent consideration adjustments		0.1		(2.0	)		6		(2.8	)
	Accelerated software amortization		1.5		1.5			4.5		3
	Other		1.9		0.5			5.8		2.2
	Special items	$	46.4	$	36.9		$	155.5	$	101.1
	In the nine months ended September 30, 2013, we eliminated approximately 150 positions as part of our ongoing operational excellence initiatives.
	In the nine months ended September 30, 2012, we announced our plans to outsource our Warsaw, Indiana distribution center to a third party service provider at a national transportation hub, among other organizational changes. Approximately 300 positions were affected by these actions.
	As a result of these actions, we incurred expenses related to severance benefits, share-based compensation acceleration and other employee termination-related costs. The vast majority of these termination benefits were provided in accordance with our existing policies or local government regulations and are considered ongoing benefits. These costs were accrued when they became probable and estimable and were recorded as part of other current liabilities. The majority of these costs have been paid or will be paid in the year they were accrued.
Medical Device Excise Tax	'
	Medical Device Excise Tax — As part of The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, in January 2013 we began paying a 2.3 percent medical device excise tax on a majority of our U.S sales. The excise tax is imposed on the first sale in the U.S. by the manufacturer, producer or importer of a medical device to either a third party or an affiliated distribution entity. We distribute a majority of our musculoskeletal products through an affiliated distribution entity. Under GAAP, excise taxes incurred to get inventory to its current location can be included in the cost of the inventory. Accordingly, we capitalize this excise tax as a part of inventory and recognize it as a cost of products sold when the inventory upon which the excise tax was assessed is sold to a third party on a first-in first-out basis. In the three and nine month periods ended September 30, 2013, the amount of medical device excise tax recognized in our condensed consolidated statement of earnings was not material.
Recent Accounting Pronouncements	'
	Recent Accounting Pronouncements — Effective January 1, 2013, we adopted the Financial Accounting Standard Board’s Accounting Standard Updates (ASUs) requiring reporting of amounts reclassified out of accumulated other comprehensive income (OCI) and balance sheet offsetting between derivative assets and liabilities. These ASUs only change financial statement disclosure requirements and therefore do not impact our financial position, results of operations or cash flows. See Note 7 for disclosures relating to OCI. See Note 9 for disclosures relating to balance sheet offsetting.
	There are no other recently issued accounting pronouncements that we have not yet adopted that are expected to have a material effect on our financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Significant_Accounting_Policie2

Significant Accounting Policies (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Accounting Policies [Abstract]	'
Summary of Expenses in Special Items	'
	“Special items” included (in millions):
		Three Months					Nine Months
		Ended					Ended
		September 30,					September 30,
		2013		2012			2013		2012
	Impairment/loss on disposal of assets	$	3.9	$	0.3		$	4.2	$	0.7
	Consulting and professional fees		16.7		25.6			67		63.1
	Employee severance and retention		3.6		1.8			9.8		6.2
	Dedicated project personnel		8.3		3.9			24.8		10.5
	Certain R&D agreements		—		—			0.8		—
	Relocated facilities		0.8		—			3.4		—
	Distributor acquisitions		—		—			0.3		0.4
	Certain litigation matters		9		3.3			26.9		13.2
	Contract terminations		0.6		2			2		4.6
	Contingent consideration adjustments		0.1		(2.0	)		6		(2.8	)
	Accelerated software amortization		1.5		1.5			4.5		3
	Other		1.9		0.5			5.8		2.2
	Special items	$	46.4	$	36.9		$	155.5	$	101.1

Inventories_Tables

Inventories (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Inventory Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Summary of Inventories	'
		September 30,		December 31,
		2013		2012
		(in millions)
	Finished goods	$	833.6	$	786.3
	Work in progress		71.7		52.3
	Raw materials		176.6		156.7
	Inventories	$	1,081.90	$	995.3

Property_Plant_and_Equipment_T

Property, Plant and Equipment (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Property Plant And Equipment [Abstract]	'
Summary of Property, Plant and Equipment	'
		September 30,			December 31,
		2013			2012
		(in millions)
	Land	$	21.8		$	22.1
	Buildings and equipment		1,301.90			1,232.80
	Capitalized software costs		268.3			241.8
	Instruments		1,656.50			1,579.80
	Construction in progress		89.6			117.8
			3,338.10			3,194.30
	Accumulated depreciation		(2,104.0	)		(1,983.6	)
	Property, plant and equipment, net	$	1,234.10		$	1,210.70

Investments_Tables

Investments (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Investments Debt And Equity Securities [Abstract]	'
Investments in Short and Long-Term Classified as Available-for-Sale Securities	'
	We invest in short and long-term investments classified as available-for-sale securities. Information regarding our investments is as follows (in millions):
		Amortized		Gross						Fair value
		Cost		Unrealized
				Gains			Losses
	As of September 30, 2013
	Corporate debt securities	$	443.5	$	0.3		$	(0.3	)	$	443.5
	U.S. government and agency debt securities		252.9		0.2			—			253.1
	Foreign government debt securities		3.1		—			—			3.1
	Commercial paper		89		—			—			89
	Certificates of deposit		67.3		—			—			67.3
	Total short and long-term investments	$	855.8	$	0.5		$	(0.3	)	$	856
	As of December 31, 2012
	Corporate debt securities	$	383.6	$	0.3		$	(0.1	)	$	383.8
	U.S. government and agency debt securities		295.8		0.1			—			295.9
	Foreign government debt securities		5		—			—			5
	Commercial paper		138.7		—			—			138.7
	Certificates of deposit		92.2		0.1			—			92.3
	Total short and long-term investments	$	915.3	$	0.5		$	(0.1	)	$	915.7
Fair Values and Gross Unrealized Losses for All Available-for-Sale Securities in Unrealized Loss Position Deemed to be Temporary	'
	The following table shows the fair value and gross unrealized losses for the securities in an unrealized loss position deemed to be temporary (in millions):
		September 30, 2013					December 31, 2012
		Fair Value		Unrealized			Fair value			Unrealized
				Losses						Losses
	Corporate debt securities	$	197.4	$	(0.3	)	$	144.2		$	(0.1	)
Cost and Fair Value of Available-for-Sale Fixed-Maturity Securities by Contractual Maturity	'
	The amortized cost and fair value of our available-for-sale fixed-maturity securities by contractual maturity are as follows (in millions):
		September 30, 2013
		Amortized		Fair Value
		Cost
	Due in one year or less	$	588.1	$	588.4
	Due after one year through two years		267.7		267.6
	Total	$	855.8	$	856

Debt_Tables

Debt (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Summary of Debt Instruments	'
	Our debt consisted of the following (in millions):
		September 30,			December 31,
		2013			2012
	Short-term debt
	Senior Credit Facility	$	—		$	100
	Other short-term debt		—			0.1
	Total short-term debt	$	—		$	100.1
	Long-term debt
	Senior Notes due 2014	$	250		$	250
	Senior Notes due 2019		500			500
	Senior Notes due 2021		300			300
	Senior Notes due 2039		500			500
	Term Loan		118.6			138.6
	Other long-term credit facilities		0.8			—
	Debt discount		(1.6	)		(1.7	)
	Adjustment related to interest rate swaps		18.2			33.9
	Total long-term debt	$	1,686.00		$	1,720.80

Accumulated_Other_Comprehensiv1

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Equity [Abstract]	'
Changes in Components of Other Comprehensive Income, Net of Tax	'
	The following table shows the changes in the components of OCI, net of tax (in millions):
			Foreign			Cash			Unrealized			Defined
			Currency			Flow			Gains on			Benefit
			Translation			Hedges			Securities			Plan Items
	Balance December 31, 2012		$	445.5		$	4.1		$	0.4		$	(106.1	)
	OCI before reclassifications			(51.4	)		24.5			(0.1	)		—
	Reclassifications			—			(2.0	)		—			9.9
	Balance September 30, 2013		$	394.1		$	26.6		$	0.3		$	(96.2	)
Reclassification Adjustments from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income	'
	The following table shows the reclassification adjustments from OCI (in millions):
			Amount of Gain / (Loss)
			Reclassified from OCI
			Three Months Ended						Nine Months Ended						Location on
			September 30,						September 30,						Statement of Earnings
	Component of OCI		2013			2012			2013			2012
	Cash flow hedges
	Foreign exchange forward contracts		$	5.2		$	(1.6	)	$	3.5		$	(9.4	)	Cost of products sold
	Foreign exchange options			—			(0.3	)		(0.2	)		(0.4	)	Cost of products sold
	Cross-currency interest rate swaps			—			—			—			0.2		Interest expense
				5.2			(1.9	)		3.3			(9.6	)	Total before tax
				1.7			(1.8	)		1.3			(7.3	)	Provision for income taxes
			$	3.5		$	(0.1	)	$	2		$	(2.3	)	Net of tax
	Defined benefit plans
	Prior service cost		$	1		$	1.3		$	2.9		$	2.7		*
	Unrecognized actuarial (loss)			(4.7	)		(3.2	)		(14.0	)		(9.9	)	*
				(3.7	)		(1.9	)		(11.1	)		(7.2	)	Total before tax
				(0.3	)		2.1			(1.2	)		0.4		Provision for income taxes
			$	(3.4	)	$	(4.0	)	$	(9.9	)	$	(7.6	)	Net of tax
	Total reclassifications		$	0.1		$	(4.1	)	$	(7.9	)	$	(9.9	)	Net of tax
	*	These OCI components are included in the computation of net periodic pension expense (see Note 11).
Tax Effects on Each Component of Other Comprehensive Income Recognized in Statements of Comprehensive Income	'
	The following table shows the tax effects on each component of OCI recognized in our condensed consolidated statements of comprehensive income (in millions):
			Three Months Ended September 30, 2013									Nine Months Ended September 30, 2013
			Before Tax			Tax			Net of Tax			Before Tax			Tax			Net of Tax
	Foreign currency cumulative translation adjustments		$	45.4		$	—		$	45.4		$	(51.4	)	$	—		$	(51.4	)
	Unrealized cash flow hedge gains/(losses)			(21.4	)		(3.1	)		(18.3	)		46.3			21.8			24.5
	Reclassification adjustments on foreign currency hedges			(5.2	)		(1.7	)		(3.5	)		(3.3	)		(1.3	)		(2.0	)
	Unrealized gains on securities			0.9			—			0.9			(0.1	)		—			(0.1	)
	Adjustments to prior service cost and unrecognized actuarial assumptions			3.7			0.3			3.4			11.1			1.2			9.9
	Total Other Comprehensive Gain/(Loss)		$	23.4		$	(4.5	)	$	27.9		$	2.6		$	21.7		$	(19.1	)
			Three Months Ended September 30, 2012									Nine Months Ended September 30, 2012
			Before Tax			Tax			Net of Tax			Before Tax			Tax			Net of Tax
	Foreign currency cumulative translation adjustments		$	67.2		$	—		$	67.2		$	20.1		$	—		$	20.1
	Unrealized cash flow hedge gains			(46.4	)		(10.5	)		(35.9	)		(15.7	)		(4.0	)		(11.7	)
	Reclassification adjustments on foreign currency hedges			1.9			1.8			0.1			9.6			7.3			2.3
	Unrealized gains on securities			0.3			—			0.3			0.6			—			0.6
	Adjustments to prior service cost and unrecognized actuarial assumptions			1.9			(2.1	)		4			44.9			16.4			28.5
	Total Other Comprehensive Gain/(Loss)		$	24.9		$	(10.8	)	$	35.7		$	59.5		$	19.7		$	39.8

Fair_Value_Measurement_of_Asse1

Fair Value Measurement of Assets and Liabilities (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]	'
Fair Value Measurements of Assets and Liabilities	'
	The following assets and liabilities are recorded at fair value on a recurring basis (in millions):
		As of September 30, 2013
				Fair Value Measurements at Reporting
				Date Using:
	Description	Recorded		Quoted		Significant		Significant
		Balance		Prices in		Other		Unobservable
				Active		Observable		Inputs
				Markets for		Inputs		(Level 3)
				Identical		(Level 2)
				Assets
				(Level 1)
	Assets
	Available-for-sale securities
	Corporate debt securities	$	443.5	$	—	$	443.5	$	—
	U.S. government and agency debt securities		253.1		—		253.1		—
	Foreign government debt securities		3.1		—		3.1		—
	Commercial paper		89		—		89		—
	Certificates of deposit		67.3		—		67.3		—
	Total available-for-sale securities		856		—		856		—
	Derivatives, current and long-term
	Foreign currency forward contracts and options		53.8		—		53.8		—
	Interest rate swaps		19.9		—		19.9		—
		$	929.7	$	—	$	929.7	$	—
	Liabilities
	Derivatives, current and long-term
	Foreign currency forward contracts and options		14.4		—		14.4		—
	Interest rate swaps		1.7		—		1.7		—
		$	16.1	$	—	$	16.1	$	—
		As of December 31, 2012
				Fair Value Measurements at Reporting
				Date Using:
	Description	Recorded		Quoted		Significant		Significant
		Balance		Prices in		Other		Unobservable
				Active		Observable		Inputs
				Markets for		Inputs		(Level 3)
				Identical		(Level 2)
				Assets
				(Level 1)
	Assets
	Available-for-sale securities
	Corporate debt securities	$	383.8	$	—	$	383.8	$	—
	U.S. government and agency debt securities		295.9		—		295.9		—
	Foreign government debt securities		5		—		5		—
	Commercial paper		138.7		—		138.7		—
	Certificates of deposit		92.3		—		92.3		—
	Total available-for-sale securities		915.7		—		915.7		—
	Derivatives, current and long-term
	Foreign currency forward contracts and options		28.4		—		28.4		—
	Interest rate swaps		33.9		—		33.9		—
		$	978	$	—	$	978	$	—
	Liabilities
	Derivatives, current and long-term
	Foreign currency forward contracts and options	$	10.8	$	—	$	10.8	$	—

Derivative_Instruments_and_Hed1

Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Derivative Instruments And Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Derivative Instruments Designated as Fair Value Hedges	'
	Derivative instruments designated as fair value hedges had the following effects on our condensed consolidated statements of earnings (in millions):
						Gain / (Loss) on Instrument																Gain / (Loss) on Hedged Item
		Location  on				Three Months								Nine Months								Three Months								Nine Months
		Statement of Earnings				Ended								Ended								Ended								Ended
						September 30,								September 30,								September 30,								September 30,
	Derivative Instrument					2013				2012				2013				2012				2013				2012				2013				2012
	Interest rate swaps		Interest expense			$	(1.6	)		$	2.7			$	(15.7	)		$	7.8			$	1.6			$	(2.7	)		$	15.7			$	(7.8	)
Gross Unrealized Losses from Derivative Instruments	'
	Derivative instruments designated as cash flow hedges had the following effects, before taxes, on OCI and net earnings on our condensed consolidated statements of earnings, condensed consolidated statements of comprehensive income and condensed consolidated balance sheets (in millions):
		Amount of																		Amount of
		Gain / (Loss)																		Gain / (Loss)
		Recognized in OCI																		Reclassified from OCI
		Three Months								Nine Months								Location on		Three Months								Nine Months
		Ended								Ended								Statement of  Earnings		Ended								Ended
		September 30,								September 30,										September 30,								September 30,
	Derivative Instrument	2013				2012				2013				2012						2013				2012				2013				2012
	Foreign exchange forward contracts	$	(21.4	)		$	(46.1	)		$	46.6			$	(14.3	)		Cost of products sold		$	5.2			$	(1.6	)		$	3.5			$	(9.4	)
	Foreign exchange options		—				(0.3	)			(0.3	)			(1.4	)		Cost of products sold			—				(0.3	)			(0.2	)			(0.4	)
	Cross-currency interest rate swaps		—				—				—				—			Interest expense			—				—				—				0.2
		$	(21.4	)		$	(46.4	)		$	46.3			$	(15.7	)				$	5.2			$	(1.9	)		$	3.3			$	(9.6	)
Gains/(Losses) from Derivative Instruments Recognized in Cost of Products Sold	'
	The following gains/(losses) from these derivative instruments were recognized on our condensed consolidated statements of earnings (in millions):
		Location  on				Three Months								Nine Months
		Statement of Earnings				Ended								Ended
						September 30,								September 30,
	Derivative Instrument					2013				2012				2013				2012
	Foreign exchange forward contracts		Cost of products sold			$	(7.5	)		$	(9.8	)		$	0.1			$	(1.2	)
Fair Value of Derivative Instruments on a Gross Basis	'
	The fair value of derivative instruments on a gross basis is as follows (in millions):
		September 30, 2013						December 31, 2012
		Balance		Fair				Balance		Fair
		Sheet		Value				Sheet		Value
		Location						Location
	Asset Derivatives
	Foreign exchange forward contracts	Other current assets		$	46.6			Other current assets		$	29.7
	Foreign exchange options	Other current assets			—			Other current assets			0.6
	Foreign exchange forward contracts	Other assets			21.8			Other assets			19.8
	Interest rate swaps	Other assets			19.9			Other assets			33.9
	Total asset derivatives			$	88.3					$	84
	Liability Derivatives
	Foreign exchange forward contracts	Other current liabilities		$	16.2			Other current liabilities		$	20.2
	Foreign exchange forward contracts	Other long-term liabilities			12.8			Other long-term liabilities			12.3
	Interest rate swaps	Other long-term liabilities			1.7			Other long-term liabilities			—
	Total liability derivatives			$	30.7					$	32.5
Schedule of Effects of Master Netting Agreements on Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets	'
	The table below presents the effects of our master netting agreements on our condensed consolidated balance sheets (in millions):
				As of September 30, 2013												As of December 31, 2012
	Description	Location		Gross				Offset				Net Amount				Gross				Offset				Net Amount
				Amount								in Balance				Amount								in Balance
												Sheet												Sheet
	Asset Derivatives
	Cash flow hedges	Other current assets		$	46.6			$	8.3			$	38.3			$	30.3			$	15.2			$	15.1
	Cash flow hedges	Other assets			21.8				6.3				15.5				19.8				6.5				13.3
	Liability Derivatives
	Cash flow hedges	Other current liabilities			16.2				8.3				7.9				20.2				15.2				5
	Cash flow hedges	Other long-term liabilities			12.8				6.3				6.5				12.3				6.5				5.8

Retirement_Benefit_Plans_Table

Retirement Benefit Plans (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Compensation And Retirement Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Components of Net Pension Expense	'
	The components of net periodic pension expense for our U.S. and foreign defined benefit retirement plans are as follows (in millions):
		Three Months						Nine Months
		Ended						Ended
		September 30,						September 30,
		2013			2012			2013			2012
	Service cost	$	7		$	6.2		$	21.1		$	19.1
	Interest cost		4.7			4.6			14.1			14.2
	Expected return on plan assets		(8.9	)		(8.2	)		(26.7	)		(24.7	)
	Settlement		—			—			—			0.7
	Amortization of prior service cost		(1.0	)		(1.3	)		(2.9	)		(2.7	)
	Amortization of unrecognized actuarial loss		4.7			3.2			14			9.9
	Net periodic pension expense	$	6.5		$	4.5		$	19.6		$	16.5

Earnings_Per_Share_Tables

Earnings Per Share (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]	'
Reconciliation of Weighted Average Shares for Basic and Diluted Shares Computations	'
	The following is a reconciliation of weighted average shares for the basic and diluted shares computations (in millions):
		Three Months				Nine Months
		Ended				Ended
		September 30,				September 30,
		2013		2012		2013		2012
	Weighted average shares outstanding for basic net earnings per share		170		174.1		169.2		175.6
	Effect of dilutive stock options and other equity awards		2.2		1.2		2		1.1
	Weighted average shares outstanding for diluted net earnings per share		172.2		175.3		171.2		176.7

Segment_Information_Tables

Segment Information (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Segment Reporting [Abstract]	'
Summary of Net Sales and Segment Operating Profit	'
	Net sales and segment operating profit are as follows (in millions):
		Net Sales				Operating Profit
		Three Months				Three Months
		Ended				Ended
		September 30,				September 30,
		2013		2012		2013			2012
	Americas	$	632.9	$	583.5	$	312.6		$	291
	Europe		255		245.6		63.3			65.5
	Asia Pacific		186.4		196.4		76.8			75.3
	Total	$	1,074.30	$	1,025.50
	Share-based compensation						(10.9	)		(13.9	)
	Inventory step-up and other inventory and manufacturing related charges						(43.8	)		(0.5	)
	Special items						(46.4	)		(36.9	)
	Global operations and corporate functions						(139.9	)		(131.1	)
	Operating profit					$	211.7		$	249.4
		Net Sales				Operating Profit
		Nine Months				Nine Months
		Ended				Ended
		September 30,				September 30,
		2013		2012		2013			2012
	Americas	$	1,927.70	$	1,832.20	$	958.4		$	927.8
	Europe		870		851.6		243.7			254.7
	Asia Pacific		585		607.4		239.4			232
	Total	$	3,382.70	$	3,291.20
	Share-based compensation						(37.1	)		(41.7	)
	Inventory step-up and other inventory and manufacturing related charges						(57.7	)		(2.5	)
	Certain claims						(47.0	)		—
	Special items						(155.5	)		(101.1	)
	Global operations and corporate functions						(423.9	)		(422.3	)
	Operating profit					$	720.3		$	846.9
Summary of Net Sales by Product Category	'
	Net sales by product category are as follows (in millions):
		Three Months				Nine Months
		Ended				Ended
		September 30,				September 30,
		2013		2012		2013			2012
	Reconstructive
	Knees	$	434.5	$	411.6	$	1,386.50		$	1,350.80
	Hips		308.3		308.5		977.5			993
	Extremities		45.5		39.7		141.9			127
			788.3		759.8		2,505.90			2,470.80
	Dental		55.1		54.7		176.2			176.4
	Trauma		78.5		74.5		234.6			223.9
	Spine		48		49.8		149.9			155.4
	Surgical and other		104.4		86.7		316.1			264.7
	Total	$	1,074.30	$	1,025.50	$	3,382.70		$	3,291.20

Significant_Accounting_Policie3

Significant Accounting Policies - Summary of Expenses in Special Items (Detail) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
Disclosure Significant Accounting Policies Summary Of Expenses In Special Items [Abstract]	'	'	'	'
Impairment/loss on disposal of assets	$3.90	$0.30	$4.20	$0.70
Consulting and professional fees	16.7	25.6	67	63.1
Employee severance and retention	3.6	1.8	9.8	6.2
Dedicated project personnel	8.3	3.9	24.8	10.5
Certain R&D agreements	'	'	0.8	'
Relocated facilities	0.8	'	3.4	'
Distributor acquisitions	'	'	0.3	0.4
Certain litigation matters	9	3.3	26.9	13.2
Contract terminations	0.6	2	2	4.6
Contingent consideration adjustments	0.1	-2	6	-2.8
Accelerated software amortization	1.5	1.5	4.5	3
Other	1.9	0.5	5.8	2.2
Special items	$46.40	$36.90	$155.50	$101.10

Significant_Accounting_Policie4

Significant Accounting Policies - Additional Information (Detail)	1 Months Ended	9 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
		Positions	Positions
Accounting Policies [Abstract]	'	'	'
Number of positions affected by restructuring	'	150	300
Medical device excise tax	2.30%	'	'

Inventories_Summary_of_Invento

Inventories - Summary of Inventories (Detail) (USD $)	Sep. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Inventory Disclosure [Abstract]	'	'
Finished goods	$833.60	$786.30
Work in progress	71.7	52.3
Raw materials	176.6	156.7
Inventories	$1,081.90	$995.30

Inventories_Additional_Informa

Inventories - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)	3 Months Ended	9 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013
Inventory [Line Items]	'	'
Amounts charged for excess obsolete inventory	$52.50	$92.90
Amounts charged for affected inventory and instruments	39.1	'
Inventory [Member]	'	'
Inventory [Line Items]	'	'
Amounts charged for affected inventory and instruments	36.2	'
Instrument [Member]	'	'
Inventory [Line Items]	'	'
Amounts charged for affected inventory and instruments	$2.90	'

Property_Plant_and_Equipment_S

Property, Plant and Equipment - Summary of Property Plant and Equipment (Detail) (USD $)	Sep. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Property Plant And Equipment Useful Life And Values [Abstract]	'	'
Land	$21.80	$22.10
Buildings and equipment	1,301.90	1,232.80
Capitalized software costs	268.3	241.8
Instruments	1,656.50	1,579.80
Construction in progress	89.6	117.8
Property, plant and equipment, gross	3,338.10	3,194.30
Accumulated depreciation	-2,104	-1,983.60
Property, plant and equipment, net	$1,234.10	$1,210.70

Investments_Investments_in_Sho

Investments - Investments in Short and Long-Term Classified as Available-for-Sale Securities (Detail) (USD $)	Sep. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost	$855.80	$915.30
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gains	0.5	0.5
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Losses	-0.3	-0.1
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value	856	915.7
Corporate debt securities [Member]	'	'
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost	443.5	383.6
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gains	0.3	0.3
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Losses	-0.3	-0.1
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value	443.5	383.8
U.S. government and agency debt securities [Member]	'	'
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost	252.9	295.8
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gains	0.2	0.1
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value	253.1	295.9
Foreign government debt securities [Member]	'	'
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost	3.1	5
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value	3.1	5
Commercial paper [Member]	'	'
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost	89	138.7
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value	89	138.7
Certificates of deposit [Member]	'	'
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost	67.3	92.2
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gains	'	0.1
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value	$67.30	$92.30

Investments_Fair_Values_and_Gr

Investments - Fair Values and Gross Unrealized Losses for all Available-for-Sale Securities in Unrealized Loss Position Deemed to be Temporary (Detail) (Corporate debt securities [Member], USD $)	Sep. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Corporate debt securities [Member]	'	'
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities, Unrealized Losses, Fair Value	$197.40	$144.20
Available-for-sale Securities, Unrealized Losses	($0.30)	($0.10)

Investments_Additional_Informa

Investments - Additional Information (Detail)	Sep. 30, 2013
	Security
Amortized Cost And Fair Value Debt Securities [Abstract]	'
Total number of securities in an unrealized loss position	98

Investments_Cost_and_Fair_Valu

Investments - Cost and Fair Value of Available-for-Sale Fixed-Maturity Securities by Contractual Maturity (Detail) (USD $)	Sep. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Investments Debt And Equity Securities [Abstract]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, Due in One Year or less, Fair Value	$588.40	'
Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, Due after One year through two Years, Fair Value	267.6	'
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value	856	915.7
Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, Due in One Year or less, Amortized Cost	588.1	'
Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, Due after One year through two Years, Amortized Cost	267.7	'
Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, Amortized Cost	$855.80	'

Debt_Summary_of_Debt_Instrumen

Debt - Summary of Debt Instruments (Detail) (USD $)	Sep. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Short-term debt	'	'
Senior Credit Facility	'	$100
Other short-term debt	'	0.1
Total short-term debt	'	100.1
Long-term debt	'	'
Term Loan	118.6	138.6
Other long-term credit facilities	0.8	'
Debt discount	-1.6	-1.7
Adjustment related to interest rate swaps	18.2	33.9
Total long-term debt	1,686	1,720.80
Senior Notes due 2014 [Member]	'	'
Long-term debt	'	'
Senior Notes due	250	250
Senior Notes due 2019 [Member]	'	'
Long-term debt	'	'
Senior Notes due	500	500
Senior Notes due 2021 [Member]	'	'
Long-term debt	'	'
Senior Notes due	300	300
Senior Notes due 2039 [Member]	'	'
Long-term debt	'	'
Senior Notes due	$500	$500

Debt_Additional_Information_De

Debt - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)	Sep. 30, 2013
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Senior Notes [Member]	'
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'
Estimated fair value of debt	$1,647.70
Term Loan [Member]	'
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'
Estimated fair value of debt	$118.40

Accumulated_Other_Comprehensiv2

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income - Changes in Components of Other Comprehensive Income, Net of Tax (Detail) (USD $)	Sep. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013
In Millions, unless otherwise specified			Foreign Currency Translation [Member]	Cash Flow Hedges [Member]	Unrealized Gains on Securities [Member]	Defined Benefit Plan Items [Member]
Other Comprehensive Income Loss [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, Beginning Balance	$324.80	$343.90	$445.50	$4.10	$0.40	($106.10)
OCI before reclassifications	'	'	-51.4	24.5	-0.1	'
Reclassifications	'	'	'	-2	'	9.9
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, Ending Balance	$324.80	$343.90	$394.10	$26.60	$0.30	($96.20)

Accumulated_Other_Comprehensiv3

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income - Reclassification Adjustments from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Detail) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
Other Comprehensive Income Loss [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Cost of Product Sold	($328.80)	($255.70)	($945.30)	($826.30)
Provision for income taxes	44.3	57.2	154.3	203
Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Member]	'	'	'	'
Other Comprehensive Income Loss [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Net of tax	0.1	-4.1	-7.9	-9.9
Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Member] | Cash Flow Hedges [Member]	'	'	'	'
Other Comprehensive Income Loss [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Total before tax	5.2	-1.9	3.3	-9.6
Provision for income taxes	1.7	-1.8	1.3	-7.3
Net of tax	3.5	-0.1	2	-2.3
Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Member] | Cash Flow Hedges [Member] | Foreign exchange forward contracts [Member]	'	'	'	'
Other Comprehensive Income Loss [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Cost of Product Sold	5.2	-1.6	3.5	-9.4
Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Member] | Cash Flow Hedges [Member] | Foreign exchange options [Member]	'	'	'	'
Other Comprehensive Income Loss [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Cost of Product Sold	'	-0.3	-0.2	-0.4
Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Member] | Cash Flow Hedges [Member] | Cross-currency interest rate swaps [Member]	'	'	'	'
Other Comprehensive Income Loss [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Interest Expenses	'	'	'	0.2
Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Member] | Defined Benefit Plan Items [Member]	'	'	'	'
Other Comprehensive Income Loss [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Prior service cost	1	1.3	2.9	2.7
Unrecognized actuarial (loss)	-4.7	-3.2	-14	-9.9
Total before tax	-3.7	-1.9	-11.1	-7.2
Provision for income taxes	-0.3	2.1	-1.2	0.4
Net of tax	($3.40)	($4)	($9.90)	($7.60)

Accumulated_Other_Comprehensiv4

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income - Tax Effects on Each Component of Other Comprehensive Income Recognized in Statements of Comprehensive Income (Detail) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
Statement Of Income And Comprehensive Income [Abstract]	'	'	'	'
Foreign currency cumulative translation adjustments, Before Tax	$45.40	$67.20	($51.40)	$20.10
Unrealized cash flow hedge gains/(losses), Before Tax	-21.4	-46.4	46.3	-15.7
Reclassification adjustments on foreign currency hedges, Before Tax	-5.2	1.9	-3.3	9.6
Unrealized gains on securities, Before Tax	0.9	0.3	-0.1	0.6
Adjustments to prior service cost and unrecognized actuarial assumptions, Before Tax	3.7	1.9	11.1	44.9
Total Other Comprehensive Gain/(Loss), Before Tax	23.4	24.9	2.6	59.5
Foreign currency cumulative translation adjustments, Tax	'	'	'	'
Unrealized cash flow hedge gains, Tax	-3.1	-10.5	21.8	-4
Reclassification adjustments on foreign currency hedges, Tax	-1.7	1.8	-1.3	7.3
Unrealized gains on securities, Tax	'	'	'	'
Adjustments to prior service cost and unrecognized actuarial assumptions, Tax	0.3	-2.1	1.2	16.4
Total Other Comprehensive Gain/(Loss), Tax	-4.5	-10.8	21.7	19.7
Foreign currency cumulative translation adjustments, net of tax	45.4	67.2	-51.4	20.1
Unrealized cash flow hedge gains, net of tax	-18.3	-35.9	24.5	-11.7
Reclassification adjustments on foreign currency hedges, net of tax	-3.5	0.1	-2	2.3
Unrealized gains on securities, net of tax	0.9	0.3	-0.1	0.6
Adjustments to prior service cost and unrecognized actuarial assumptions, net of tax	3.4	4	9.9	28.5
Total Other Comprehensive Gain/(Loss)	$27.90	$35.70	($19.10)	$39.80

Fair_Value_Measurement_of_Asse2

Fair Value Measurement of Assets and Liabilities - Fair Value Measurements of Assets and Liabilities (Detail) (USD $)	Sep. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value	$856	$915.70
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value	856	915.7
Total fair value measurement of assets	929.7	978
Total fair value measurement of liabilities	16.1	'
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Foreign exchange forward contracts [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Derivatives, current and long-term	53.8	28.4
Derivatives, current and long-term	14.4	10.8
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Interest rate swaps [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Derivatives, current and long-term	19.9	33.9
Derivatives, current and long-term	1.7	'
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Corporate debt securities [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value	443.5	383.8
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | U.S. government and agency debt securities [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value	253.1	295.9
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Foreign government debt securities [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value	3.1	5
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Commercial paper [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value	89	138.7
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Certificates of deposit [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value	67.3	92.3
Fair Value Measurements at Reporting Date Using: Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value	856	915.7
Total fair value measurement of assets	929.7	978
Total fair value measurement of liabilities	16.1	'
Fair Value Measurements at Reporting Date Using: Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Foreign exchange forward contracts [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Derivatives, current and long-term	53.8	28.4
Derivatives, current and long-term	14.4	10.8
Fair Value Measurements at Reporting Date Using: Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Interest rate swaps [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Derivatives, current and long-term	19.9	33.9
Derivatives, current and long-term	1.7	'
Fair Value Measurements at Reporting Date Using: Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Corporate debt securities [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value	443.5	383.8
Fair Value Measurements at Reporting Date Using: Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | U.S. government and agency debt securities [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value	253.1	295.9
Fair Value Measurements at Reporting Date Using: Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Foreign government debt securities [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value	3.1	5
Fair Value Measurements at Reporting Date Using: Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Commercial paper [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value	89	138.7
Fair Value Measurements at Reporting Date Using: Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) [Member] | Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] | Certificates of deposit [Member]	'	'
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities, Fair Value	$67.30	$92.30

Derivative_Instruments_and_Hed2

Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]	'
Expected months of hedging of inter company sales of inventory to minimize the effects of foreign exchange rate movements	'30 months
Minimum notional amounts of foreign currency forward exchange contracts	$1,200,000,000
Maximum notional amounts of foreign currency forward exchange contracts	1,700,000,000
Fair value of outstanding derivative instruments, net unrealized gain deferred in other comprehensive income	48,000,000
Fair value of outstanding derivative instruments, net unrealized gain expected to be reclassified to earnings	23,300,000
Fair value of outstanding derivative instruments, unrealized gain net of taxes expected to be reclassified to earnings	12,200,000
U.S. Dollars [Member] | Foreign Exchange Contract [Member]	'
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]	'
Derivative notional amount, Total	1,514,000,000
Swiss Francs [Member] | Foreign Exchange Contract [Member]	'
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]	'
Derivative notional amount, Total	333,100,000
Senior Notes due 2019 [Member]	'
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]	'
Derivative notional amount, Total	250,000,000
Interest rate of Senior Notes	4.63%
Description of terms of Interest rate Derivatives terms	'Receive a fixed interest rate of 4.625 percent and pay variable interest equal to the three-month LIBOR plus an average of 133 basis points
Description of variable interest rate basis	'Three-month LIBOR
Interest rate swap basis spread on variable rate	1.33%
Senior Notes due 2021 [Member]	'
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]	'
Derivative notional amount, Total	300,000,000
Interest rate of Senior Notes	3.38%
Description of terms of Interest rate Derivatives terms	'Receive a fixed interest rate of 3.375 percent and pay variable interest equal to the three-month LIBOR plus an average of 99 basis points
Description of variable interest rate basis	'Three-month LIBOR
Interest rate swap basis spread on variable rate	0.99%
Cash flow hedges [Member]	'
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]	'
Fair value of outstanding derivative instruments, unrealized gain net of taxes deferred in other comprehensive income	$26,600,000

Derivative_Instruments_and_Hed3

Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities - Derivative Instruments Designated as Fair Value Hedges (Detail) (Interest rate swaps [Member], Interest expense [Member], USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
Interest rate swaps [Member] | Interest expense [Member]	'	'	'	'
Derivatives And Hedging Activities [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Gain / (Loss) on Instrument	($1.60)	$2.70	($15.70)	$7.80
Gain / (Loss) on Hedged Item	$1.60	($2.70)	$15.70	($7.80)

Derivative_Instruments_and_Hed4

Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities - Gross Unrealized Losses from Derivative Instruments (Detail) (Cash flow hedges [Member], USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Amount of Gain / (Loss) Recognized in OCI	($21.40)	($46.40)	$46.30	($15.70)
Amount of Gain / (Loss) Reclassified from OCI	5.2	-1.9	3.3	-9.6
Foreign exchange forward contracts [Member]	'	'	'	'
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Amount of Gain / (Loss) Recognized in OCI	-21.4	-46.1	46.6	-14.3
Foreign exchange forward contracts [Member] | Cost of products sold [Member]	'	'	'	'
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Amount of Gain / (Loss) Reclassified from OCI	5.2	-1.6	3.5	-9.4
Foreign exchange options [Member]	'	'	'	'
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Amount of Gain / (Loss) Recognized in OCI	'	-0.3	-0.3	-1.4
Foreign exchange options [Member] | Cost of products sold [Member]	'	'	'	'
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Amount of Gain / (Loss) Reclassified from OCI	'	-0.3	-0.2	-0.4
Cross-currency interest rate swaps [Member] | Interest expense net [Member]	'	'	'	'
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Amount of Gain / (Loss) Reclassified from OCI	'	'	'	$0.20

Derivative_Instruments_and_Hed5

Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities - Gains/(Losses) from Derivative Instruments Recognized in Cost of Products Sold (Detail) (Nondesignated [Member], Foreign exchange forward contracts [Member], Cost of products sold [Member], USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
Nondesignated [Member] | Foreign exchange forward contracts [Member] | Cost of products sold [Member]	'	'	'	'
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Gains (losses) from derivative instruments not designated as hedging instruments	($7.50)	($9.80)	$0.10	($1.20)

Derivative_Instruments_and_Hed6

Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities - Fair Value of Derivative Instruments on Gross Basis (Detail) (Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member], USD $)	Sep. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]	'	'
Derivative Assets	$88.30	$84
Derivative Liabilities	30.7	32.5
Foreign exchange forward contracts [Member] | Other current assets [Member]	'	'
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]	'	'
Derivative Assets	46.6	29.7
Foreign exchange forward contracts [Member] | Other assets [Member]	'	'
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]	'	'
Derivative Assets	21.8	19.8
Foreign exchange forward contracts [Member] | Other current liabilities [Member]	'	'
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]	'	'
Derivative Liabilities	16.2	20.2
Foreign exchange forward contracts [Member] | Other long-term liabilities [Member]	'	'
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]	'	'
Derivative Liabilities	12.8	12.3
Foreign exchange options [Member] | Other current assets [Member]	'	'
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]	'	'
Derivative Assets	'	0.6
Interest rate swaps [Member] | Other assets [Member]	'	'
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]	'	'
Derivative Assets	19.9	33.9
Interest rate swaps [Member] | Other long-term liabilities [Member]	'	'
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]	'	'
Derivative Liabilities	$1.70	'

Derivative_Instruments_and_Hed7

Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities - Schedule of Effects of Master Netting Agreements on Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets (Detail) (Cash flow hedges [Member], USD $)	Sep. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Other current assets [Member]	'	'
Derivatives And Hedging Activities [Line Items]	'	'
Gross Amount	$46.60	$30.30
Offset	8.3	15.2
Net Amount in Balance Sheet	38.3	15.1
Other assets [Member]	'	'
Derivatives And Hedging Activities [Line Items]	'	'
Gross Amount	21.8	19.8
Offset	6.3	6.5
Net Amount in Balance Sheet	15.5	13.3
Other current liabilities [Member]	'	'
Derivatives And Hedging Activities [Line Items]	'	'
Gross Amount	16.2	20.2
Offset	8.3	15.2
Net Amount in Balance Sheet	7.9	5
Other long-term liabilities [Member]	'	'
Derivatives And Hedging Activities [Line Items]	'	'
Gross Amount	12.8	12.3
Offset	6.3	6.5
Net Amount in Balance Sheet	$6.50	$5.80

Income_Taxes_Additional_Inform

Income Taxes - Additional Information (Detail)	3 Months Ended	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2013
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]	'	'
Effective tax rate	22.30%	22.80%
U.S. statutory income tax rate	'	35.00%

Retirement_Benefit_Plans_Compo

Retirement Benefit Plans - Components of Net Pension Expense (Detail) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
Compensation And Retirement Disclosure [Abstract]	'	'	'	'
Service cost	$7	$6.20	$21.10	$19.10
Interest cost	4.7	4.6	14.1	14.2
Expected return on plan assets	-8.9	-8.2	-26.7	-24.7
Settlement	'	'	'	0.7
Amortization of prior service cost	-1	-1.3	-2.9	-2.7
Amortization of unrecognized actuarial loss	4.7	3.2	14	9.9
Net periodic pension expense	$6.50	$4.50	$19.60	$16.50

Retirement_Benefit_Plans_Addit

Retirement Benefit Plans - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)	9 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2013
U.S. and Puerto Rico [Member]	'
Pension Plans, Postretirement and Other Employee Benefits [Line Items]	'
Contribution towards defined benefit plans	$20
Additional contribution towards defined benefit plans	0
Foreign-based defined benefit plans [Member]	'
Pension Plans, Postretirement and Other Employee Benefits [Line Items]	'
Contribution towards defined benefit plans	11.3
Additional contribution towards defined benefit plans	$3.40

Earnings_Per_Share_Reconciliat

Earnings Per Share - Reconciliation of Weighted Average Shares for Basic and Diluted Share Computations (Detail)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]	'	'	'	'
Weighted average shares outstanding for basic net earnings per share	170	174.1	169.2	175.6
Effect of dilutive stock options and other equity awards	2.2	1.2	2	1.1
Weighted average shares outstanding for diluted net earnings per share	172.2	175.3	171.2	176.7

Earnings_Per_Share_Additional_

Earnings Per Share - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
Share data in Millions, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]	'	'	'	'
Options to purchase shares of common stock not included in the computation of diluted earnings per share	1.4	11.9	4.2	12.3
Repurchased shares of common stock	0.2	'	6.4	'
Average price per share	$83.92	'	$74.20	'
Total cash outlay	$17,500,000	'	$478,300,000	$345,700,000
Amount authorized for share repurchase program	'	'	1,500,000,000	'
Amount remains authorized for future repurchases	'	'	$536,400,000	'
Expiration date of repurchase program	31-Dec-14	'	31-Dec-14	'

Segment_Information_Additional

Segment Information - Additional Information (Detail)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013
	Segment
Segment Reporting [Abstract]	'
Number of geographic segments	3

Segment_Information_Summary_of

Segment Information - Summary of Net Sales and Segment Operating Profit (Detail) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
Sales Information [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Operating profit	$211.70	$249.40	$720.30	$846.90
Share-based compensation	'	'	37.1	41.7
Certain claims	'	'	47	'
Special items	46.4	36.9	155.5	101.1
Net Sales	1,074.30	1,025.50	3,382.70	3,291.20
Segment Reconciling Items [Member]	'	'	'	'
Sales Information [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Operating profit	211.7	249.4	720.3	846.9
Share-based compensation	-10.9	-13.9	-37.1	-41.7
Inventory step-up and other inventory and manufacturing related charges	-43.8	-0.5	-57.7	-2.5
Certain claims	'	'	-47	'
Special items	-46.4	-36.9	-155.5	-101.1
Global operations and corporate functions	-139.9	-131.1	-423.9	-422.3
Americas [Member]	'	'	'	'
Sales Information [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Net Sales	632.9	583.5	1,927.70	1,832.20
Americas [Member] | Operating Segments [Member]	'	'	'	'
Sales Information [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Operating profit	312.6	291	958.4	927.8
Europe [Member]	'	'	'	'
Sales Information [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Net Sales	255	245.6	870	851.6
Europe [Member] | Operating Segments [Member]	'	'	'	'
Sales Information [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Operating profit	63.3	65.5	243.7	254.7
Asia Pacific [Member]	'	'	'	'
Sales Information [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Net Sales	186.4	196.4	585	607.4
Asia Pacific [Member] | Operating Segments [Member]	'	'	'	'
Sales Information [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Operating profit	$76.80	$75.30	$239.40	$232

Segment_Information_Summary_of1

Segment Information - Summary of Net Sales by Product Category (Detail) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
Revenue from External Customer [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Net Sales	$1,074.30	$1,025.50	$3,382.70	$3,291.20
Knees [Member]	'	'	'	'
Revenue from External Customer [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Net Sales	434.5	411.6	1,386.50	1,350.80
Hips [Member]	'	'	'	'
Revenue from External Customer [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Net Sales	308.3	308.5	977.5	993
Extremities [Member]	'	'	'	'
Revenue from External Customer [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Net Sales	45.5	39.7	141.9	127
Reconstructive Implants [Member]	'	'	'	'
Revenue from External Customer [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Net Sales	788.3	759.8	2,505.90	2,470.80
Dental [Member]	'	'	'	'
Revenue from External Customer [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Net Sales	55.1	54.7	176.2	176.4
Trauma [Member]	'	'	'	'
Revenue from External Customer [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Net Sales	78.5	74.5	234.6	223.9
Spine [Member]	'	'	'	'
Revenue from External Customer [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Net Sales	48	49.8	149.9	155.4
Surgical and other [Member]	'	'	'	'
Revenue from External Customer [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Net Sales	$104.40	$86.70	$316.10	$264.70

Commitments_and_Contingencies_

Commitments and Contingencies - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)	3 Months Ended			9 Months Ended		69 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2013	Mar. 01, 2013	Jun. 10, 2011
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Certain claims selling, general and administrative, net	$0	$47	$0	'	$0	$450.20	'	'
Self-insured retention amount	'	'	'	20.00%	'	'	'	'
Receivables in other assets	218	'	'	218	'	218	'	'
Compensatory damages awarded	'	'	'	27.6	'	'	'	'
Percentage of fault apportioned to plaintiffs	'	'	'	30.00%	'	'	'	'
Percentage of fault apportioned to company	'	'	'	34.00%	'	'	'	'
Percentage of fault apportioned to unrelated third party	'	'	'	36.00%	'	'	'	'
Verdict in full and entered judgment	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	20.3
Compensatory Damages Vacated	'	'	'	'	'	'	27.6	'
Durom Cup Related Claims [Member]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Estimated liability outstanding	391.6	'	'	391.6	'	391.6	'	'
Estimated liability classified as short-term	50	'	'	50	'	50	'	'
Estimated liability classified as long-term	341.6	'	'	341.6	'	341.6	'	'
Period for payment of majority of claims	'	'	'	'5 years	'	'	'	'
Stryker Corporation [Member]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Monetary damages for lost profits	'	'	'	70	'	'	'	'
Number of patents infringed	3	'	'	3	'	3	'	'
Estimated charges	$210	'	'	$210	'	$210	'	'