Medtronic (MDT) S-4/A 10 Nov 14 Registration of securities issued in business combination transactions (amended) Financial data

Document_and_Entity_Informatio

Document and Entity Information	3 Months Ended
	Jul. 25, 2014
Document And Entity Information [Abstract]	'
Document Type	'S-4/A
Amendment Flag	'true
Amendment description	'Amendement No. 4
Document Period End Date	25-Jul-14
Trading Symbol	'MDT
Entity Registrant Name	'Medtronic Holdings Ltd
Entity Central Index Key	'0001613103
Entity Filer Category	'Large Accelerated Filer

Condensed_Consolidated_Stateme

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Earnings (USD $)	3 Months Ended		12 Months Ended
In Millions, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Jul. 25, 2014	Jul. 26, 2013	Apr. 25, 2014	Apr. 26, 2013	Apr. 27, 2012
Income Statement [Abstract]	'	'	'	'	'
Net Sales	$4,273	$4,083	$17,005	$16,590	$16,184
Costs and expenses:	'	'	'	'	'
Cost of products sold	1,105	1,022	4,333	4,126	3,889
Research and development expense	365	360	1,477	1,557	1,490
Selling, general, and administrative expense	1,506	1,416	5,847	5,698	5,623
Special Charges	0	40	40	0	0
Restructuring charges, net	30	18	78	172	87
Certain litigation charges, net	'	'	770	245	90
Acquisition-related items	41	-96	117	-49	12
Amortization of intangible assets	87	86	349	331	335
Other expense, net	51	44	181	108	364
Interest expense, net	5	40	108	151	149
Total costs and expenses	3,190	2,930	13,300	12,339	12,039
Earnings before income taxes	1,083	1,153	3,705	4,251	4,145
Provision for income taxes	212	200	640	784	730
Earnings from continuing operations	'	'	3,065	3,467	3,415
Discontinued operations, net of tax:	'	'	'	'	'
Earnings from operations of Physio-Control	'	'	0	0	32
Physio-Control divestiture-related costs	'	'	0	0	-34
Gain on sale of Physio-Control	'	'	0	0	204
Earnings from discontinued operations	'	'	0	0	202
Net earnings	$871	$953	$3,065	$3,467	$3,617
Basic earnings per share:	'	'	'	'	'
Earnings from continuing operations (per share)	'	'	$3.06	$3.40	$3.24
Net earnings (usd per share)	$0.88	$0.94	$3.06	$3.40	$3.43
Diluted earnings per share:	'	'	'	'	'
Earnings from continuing operations (per share)	'	'	$3.02	$3.37	$3.22
Net earnings (usd per share)	$0.87	$0.93	$3.02	$3.37	$3.41
Weighted average shares outstanding:	'	'	'	'	'
Basic weighted average shares outstanding (shares)	992.6	1,009.70	1,002.10	1,019.30	1,053.90
Diluted weighted average shares outstanding	1,005.20	1,021.20	1,013.60	1,027.50	1,059.90
Cash dividends declared per common share	$0.31	$0.28	$1.12	$1.04	$0.97

Condensed_Consolidated_Stateme1

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (USD $)	3 Months Ended		12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Jul. 25, 2014	Jul. 26, 2013	Apr. 25, 2014	Apr. 26, 2013	Apr. 27, 2012
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]	'	'	'	'	'
Net earnings	$871	$953	$3,065	$3,467	$3,617
Other comprehensive income/(loss), net of tax:	'	'	'	'	'
Unrealized gain (loss) on available-for-sale securities, net	54	-95	-103	-33	-66
Translation adjustment	1	-5	13	-21	-137
Net change in retirement obligations, net	17	14	87	-18	-227
Unrealized (loss) gain on derivatives, net	37	2	-102	53	181
Other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax	109	-84	-105	-19	-249
Comprehensive income	$980	$869	$2,960	$3,448	$3,368

Condensed_Consolidated_Stateme2

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Parenthetical) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Jul. 25, 2014	Jul. 26, 2013	Apr. 25, 2014	Apr. 26, 2013	Apr. 27, 2012
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]	'	'	'	'	'
Unrealized gain/(loss) on investments, tax expense/(benefit)	$32	($54)	($58)	($19)	($38)
Net change in retirement obligations, tax expense/(benefit)	6	9	72	-4	-130
Unrealized gain/(loss) on derivatives, tax expense/(benefit)	$21	$1	($60)	$30	$105

Condensed_Consolidated_Balance

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets (USD $)	Jul. 25, 2014	Apr. 25, 2014	Apr. 26, 2013
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Current assets:	'	'	'
Cash and cash equivalents	$1,336	$1,403	$919
Investments	12,626	12,838	10,211
Accounts receivable	3,690	3,811	3,727
Inventories	1,836	1,725	1,712
Tax assets	599	736	539
Prepaid expenses and other current assets	683	697	744
Total current assets	20,770	21,210	17,852
Property, plant, and equipment	6,541	6,439	6,152
Accumulated depreciation	-4,165	-4,047	-3,662
Property, plant, and equipment, net	2,376	2,392	2,490
Goodwill	10,696	10,593	10,329
Other intangible assets, net	2,341	2,286	2,673
Long-term tax assets	199	300	232
Other assets	1,172	1,162	1,324
Total assets	37,554	37,943	34,900
Current liabilities:	'	'	'
Short-term borrowings	2,477	1,613	910
Accounts payable	685	742	681
Accrued compensation	787	1,015	1,011
Accrued income taxes	153	164	88
Deferred tax liabilities	19	19	16
Other accrued expenses	1,312	2,006	1,244
Total current liabilities	5,433	5,559	3,950
Long-term debt	10,323	10,315	9,741
Long-term accrued compensation and retirement benefits	680	662	752
Long-term accrued income taxes	1,251	1,343	1,168
Long-term deferred tax liabilities	377	386	340
Other long-term liabilities	242	235	278
Total liabilities	18,306	18,500	16,229
Commitments and contingencies	'	'	'
Shareholders' equity:	'	'	'
Preferred stock	0	0	0
Common stock	99	100	102
Retained earnings	19,637	19,940	19,061
Accumulated other comprehensive loss	-488	-597	-492
Total shareholders' equity	19,248	19,443	18,671
Total liabilities and shareholders' equity	$37,554	$37,943	$34,900

Condensed_Consolidated_Balance1

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets (Parenthetical) (USD $)	Jul. 25, 2014	Apr. 25, 2014	Apr. 26, 2013
In Millions, except Share data, unless otherwise specified
Statement of Financial Position [Abstract]	'	'	'
Allowances for accounts receivable	$116	$115	$98
Preferred stock, par value	$1	$1	$1
Preferred stock, shares authorized	'	2,500,000	2,500,000
Preferred stock, shares outstanding	'	0	0
Common stock, par value	$0.10	$0.10	$0.10
Common stock, shares authorized	'	1,600,000,000	1,600,000,000
Common stock, shares issued	'	998,999,125	1,016,014,005
Common stock, shares outstanding	'	998,999,125	1,016,014,005

Condensed_Consolidated_Stateme3

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (USD $)	3 Months Ended		12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Jul. 25, 2014	Jul. 26, 2013	Apr. 25, 2014	Apr. 26, 2013	Apr. 27, 2012
Operating Activities:	'	'	'	'	'
Net earnings	$871	$953	$3,065	$3,467	$3,617
Adjustments to reconcile net earnings to net cash provided by operating activities:	'	'	'	'	'
Depreciation and amortization	215	208	850	819	833
Amortization of debt discount and issuance costs	3	2	8	104	85
Gain on sale of Physio-Control	'	'	0	0	-218
Acquisition-related items	2	-96	110	-74	45
Provision for doubtful accounts	8	14	43	51	66
Deferred income taxes	98	30	-207	-7	14
Stock-based compensation	34	31	145	152	161
Other, net	-12	0	-28	0	0
Change in operating assets and liabilities, net of acquisitions:	'	'	'	'	'
Accounts receivable, net	94	85	-70	1	-252
Inventories	-96	-95	-39	93	-185
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities	-163	-330	-117	481	300
Other operating assets and liabilities	17	181	444	-215	155
Certain litigation charges, net	'	'	770	245	90
Certain litigation payments	-761	0	-15	-175	-241
Net cash provided by operating activities	310	983	4,959	4,942	4,470
Investing Activities:	'	'	'	'	'
Acquisitions, net of cash acquired	-146	-17	-385	-820	-556
Proceeds from divestiture of Physio-Control	'	'	0	0	386
Additions to property, plant, and equipment	-109	-78	-396	-457	-484
Purchases of investments	-1,600	-2,757	-10,895	-12,321	-9,704
Sales and maturities of investments	1,853	2,195	8,111	10,511	7,717
Other investing activities, net	-4	-9	-29	-14	-21
Net cash used in investing activities	-6	-666	-3,594	-3,101	-2,662
Financing Activities:	'	'	'	'	'
Acquisition-related contingent consideration	-5	-1	-1	-18	-118
Change in short-term borrowings, net	862	761	127	-720	165
Repayment of short-term borrowings (maturities greater than 90 days)	0	-125	-1,301	-2,700	-3,275
Proceeds from short-term borrowings (maturities greater than 90 days)	'	'	1,176	2,628	2,525
Issuance of long-term debt	'	'	1,994	2,980	1,210
Payments on long-term debt	-3	-4	-565	-2,214	-24
Dividends to shareholders	-304	-281	-1,116	-1,055	-1,021
Issuance of common stock	154	568	1,307	267	96
Repurchase of common stock	-1,065	-1,340	-2,553	-1,247	-1,440
Other financing activities	6	0	14	-22	0
Net cash used in financing activities	-355	-422	-918	-2,101	-1,882
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents	-16	14	37	7	-71
Net change in cash and cash equivalents	-67	-91	484	-253	-145
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period	1,403	919	919	1,172	1,317
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period	1,336	828	1,403	919	1,172
Supplemental Cash Flow Information	'	'	'	'	'
Cash paid for income taxes	146	70	521	537	454
Cash paid for interest	$22	$27	$394	$333	$312

Consolidated_Statements_of_Sha

Consolidated Statements of Shareholders' Equity (USD $)	Total	Common Stock	Retained Earnings	Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss
In Millions, except Share data
Balance as of at Apr. 29, 2011	$15,968	$107	$16,085	($224)
Balance (shares) as of at Apr. 29, 2011	'	1,070,000,000	'	'
Net earnings	3,617	'	3,617	'
Other comprehensive income (loss)	-249	'	'	-249
Dividends to shareholders	-1,021	'	-1,021	'
Issuance of common stock under stock purchase and award plans	96	0	96	'
Issuance of common stock under stock purchase and award plans, shares	'	4,000,000	'	'
Repurchase of common stock	-1,440	-3	-1,437	'
Repurchase of common stock, shares	'	-37,000,000	'	'
Tax benefit (deficit) from exercise of stock-based awards	-19	'	-19	'
Stock-based compensation	161	'	161	'
Balance as of at Apr. 27, 2012	17,113	104	17,482	-473
Balance (shares) as of at Apr. 27, 2012	'	1,037,000,000	'	'
Net earnings	3,467	'	3,467	'
Other comprehensive income (loss)	-19	'	'	-19
Dividends to shareholders	-1,055	'	-1,055	'
Issuance of common stock under stock purchase and award plans	267	1	266	'
Issuance of common stock under stock purchase and award plans, shares	'	10,000,000	'	'
Repurchase of common stock	-1,247	-3	-1,244	'
Repurchase of common stock, shares	'	-31,000,000	'	'
Tax benefit (deficit) from exercise of stock-based awards	-7	'	-7	'
Stock-based compensation	152	'	152	'
Balance as of at Apr. 26, 2013	18,671	102	19,061	-492
Balance (shares) as of at Apr. 26, 2013	1,016,014,005	1,016,000,000	'	'
Net earnings	3,065	'	3,065	'
Other comprehensive income (loss)	-105	'	'	-105
Dividends to shareholders	-1,116	'	-1,116	'
Issuance of common stock under stock purchase and award plans	1,307	3	1,304	'
Issuance of common stock under stock purchase and award plans, shares	'	31,000,000	'	'
Repurchase of common stock	-2,553	-5	-2,548	'
Repurchase of common stock, shares	'	-48,000,000	'	'
Tax benefit (deficit) from exercise of stock-based awards	29	'	29	'
Stock-based compensation	145	'	145	'
Balance as of at Apr. 25, 2014	$19,443	$100	$19,940	($597)
Balance (shares) as of at Apr. 25, 2014	998,999,125	999,000,000	'	'

Basis_of_Presentation

Basis of Presentation	3 Months Ended
	Jul. 25, 2014
Accounting Policies [Abstract]	'
Basis of Presentation	'
	Note 1 – Basis of Presentation
	The accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (U.S.) (U.S. GAAP) for interim financial information and with the instructions to Form 10-Q and Article 10 of Regulation S-X. Accordingly, they do not include all of the information necessary for a fair presentation of results of operations, comprehensive income, financial condition, and cash flows in conformity with U.S. GAAP. In the opinion of management, the condensed consolidated financial statements reflect all adjustments (consisting of normal recurring adjustments) considered necessary for a fair presentation of the results of Medtronic, Inc. and its subsidiaries (Medtronic or the Company) for the periods presented. Operating results for interim periods are not necessarily indicative of results that may be expected for the fiscal year as a whole. The preparation of the financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues, expenses, and the related disclosures at the date of the financial statements and during the reporting period. Actual results could materially differ from these estimates. For further information, refer to the consolidated financial statements and notes thereto included in this joint proxy statement/prospectus beginning on page F-43.
	Medtronic’s fiscal years 2015, 2014, and 2013 will end or ended on April 24, 2015, April 25, 2014, and April 26, 2013, respectively.

New_Accounting_Pronouncements

New Accounting Pronouncements	3 Months Ended
	Jul. 25, 2014
Text Block [Abstract]	'
New Accounting Pronouncements	'
	Note 2 – New Accounting Pronouncements
	Recently Adopted
	In July 2013, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued amended guidance on the financial statement presentation of an unrecognized tax benefit when a net operating loss carryforward, similar tax loss, or tax credit carryforward exists. The guidance requires an unrecognized tax benefit, or a portion of an unrecognized tax benefit, to be presented as a reduction of a deferred tax asset when a net operating loss carryforward, similar tax loss, or tax credit carryforward exists, with certain exceptions. Medtronic prospectively adopted this accounting guidance in the first quarter of fiscal year 2015 and its adoption did not have a material impact on Medtronic’s consolidated financial statements.
	In March 2013, the FASB issued amended guidance on a parent company’s accounting for the cumulative translation adjustment (CTA) recorded in accumulated other comprehensive income (AOCI) associated with a foreign entity. The amendment requires a parent to release into net income the CTA related to its investment in a foreign entity when it either sells a part or all of its investment, or no longer holds a controlling financial interest, in a subsidiary or group of assets within a foreign entity. This accounting guidance is effective prospectively for Medtronic in the first quarter of fiscal year 2015. This amended guidance had no immediate impact on Medtronic’s financial position or results of operations as Medtronic had no event or transaction described above.
	Not Yet Adopted
	In April 2014, the FASB issued amended guidance for reporting discontinued operations. The amended guidance changes the criteria for determining when the results of operations are to be reported as discontinued operations and expands the related disclosure requirements. The guidance defines a discontinued operation as a disposal of a component or group of components that is disposed of or classified as held for sale which is a strategic shift that has, or will have, a major effect on financial position and results of operations. This accounting guidance is effective prospectively for Medtronic beginning in the first quarter of fiscal year 2016, with early adoption permitted. The adoption is not expected to have a material impact on Medtronic’s consolidated financial statements.
	In May 2014, the FASB issued amended revenue recognition guidance to clarify the principles for recognizing revenue from contracts with customers. The guidance requires an entity to recognize revenue to depict the transfer of goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which an entity expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. The guidance also requires expanded disclosures relating to the nature, amount, timing, and uncertainty of revenue and cash flows arising from contracts with customers. Additionally, qualitative and quantitative disclosures are required about customer contracts, significant judgments and changes in judgments, and assets recognized from the costs to obtain or fulfill a contract. This accounting guidance is effective for Medtronic beginning in the first quarter of fiscal year 2018 using one of two prescribed retrospective methods. Early adoption is not permitted. Medtronic is evaluating the impact of the amended revenue recognition guidance on Medtronic’s consolidated financial statements.

Acquisitions_and_AcquisitionRe

Acquisitions and Acquisition-Related Items	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Jul. 25, 2014								Apr. 25, 2014
Business Combinations [Abstract]	'								'
Acquisitions and Acquisition-Related Items	'								'
									4. Acquisitions and Acquisition-Related Items
	Note 3 – Acquisitions and Acquisition-Related Items								The Company had various acquisitions and other acquisition-related activity during fiscal years 2014, 2013, and 2012. Certain acquisitions were accounted for as business combinations as noted below. In accordance with authoritative guidance on business combination accounting, the assets and liabilities of the company acquired were recorded as of the acquisition date, at their respective fair values, and consolidated. The pro forma impact of these acquisitions was not significant, individually or in the aggregate, to the results of the Company for the fiscal years ended April 25, 2014, April 26, 2013, or April 27, 2012. The results of operations related to each company acquired have been included in the Company’s consolidated statements of earnings since the date each company was acquired.
									Fiscal Year 2014
	Medtronic had various acquisitions and other acquisition-related activity during the first quarter of fiscal years 2015 and 2014. Certain acquisitions were accounted for as business combinations as noted below. In accordance with authoritative guidance on business combination accounting, the assets and liabilities of Medtronic acquired were recorded as of the acquisition date, at their respective fair values, and consolidated. The pro forma impact of these acquisitions was not significant, individually or in the aggregate, to the results of Medtronic for the three months ended July 25, 2014 or July 26, 2013. The results of operations related to each company acquired have been included in Medtronic’s condensed consolidated statements of earnings since the date each company was acquired.								TYRX, Inc.
									On December 30, 2013, the Company acquired TYRX, Inc. (TYRX), a privately-held developer of antibiotic drug and implanted medical device combinations. TYRX’s products include those designed to reduce surgical site infections associated with implantable pacemakers, defibrillators, and spinal cord neurostimulators. Under the terms of the agreement, the transaction included an initial up-front payment of $159 million, representing a purchase price net of acquired cash, including the assumption and settlement of existing TYRX debt and direct acquisition costs. Total consideration for the transaction was approximately $222 million, which included estimated fair values for product development-based and revenue-based contingent consideration of $25 million and $35 million, respectively. The product development-based contingent consideration includes a future potential payment of $40 million upon achieving certain milestones, and the revenue-based contingent consideration payments equal TYRX’s actual annual revenue growth for the Company’s fiscal years 2015 and 2016. Based upon the preliminary acquisition valuation, the Company acquired $94 million of technology-based intangible assets with an estimated useful life of 14 years and $132 million of goodwill. The acquired goodwill is not deductible for tax purposes.
	Pending Acquisition of Covidien plc								The Company accounted for the acquisition of TYRX as a business combination using the acquisition method of accounting. The assets acquired and liabilities assumed were recorded at their respective fair values as of the acquisition date. During the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2014, the Company recorded minor adjustments to goodwill and long-term deferred tax liabilities, net. The fair values of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed are as follows:
	On June 15, 2014, Medtronic, Inc. entered into a Transaction Agreement (the Transaction Agreement) by and among Medtronic, Inc., Covidien public limited company, an Irish public limited company (Covidien), Medtronic Holdings Limited (f/k/a Kalani I Limited), a private limited company organized under the laws of Ireland that will be renamed Medtronic plc (New Medtronic), Makani II Limited, a private limited company organized under the laws of Ireland and a wholly-owned subsidiary of New Medtronic (IrSub), Aviation Acquisition Co., Inc., a Minnesota corporation (U.S. AcquisitionCo), and Aviation Merger Sub, LLC, a Minnesota limited liability company and a wholly-owned subsidiary of U.S. AcquisitionCo (MergerSub). Under the terms of the Transaction Agreement, (i) New Medtronic and IrSub will acquire Covidien (the Acquisition) pursuant to the Irish Scheme of Arrangement under Section 201, and a capital reduction under Sections 72 and 74, of the Irish Companies Act of 1963 (the Arrangement) and (ii) MergerSub will merge with and into Medtronic, Inc., with Medtronic, Inc. continuing as the surviving corporation in the merger (such merger, the Merger, and the Merger together with the Acquisition, the Pending Acquisition). As a result of the Pending Acquisition, both Medtronic, Inc. and Covidien will become wholly-owned direct or indirect subsidiaries of New Medtronic.
									(in millions)
	(a) At the effective time of the Arrangement, Covidien shareholders will be entitled to receive $35.19 in cash and 0.956 of a newly issued New Medtronic share (the Arrangement Consideration) in exchange for each Covidien share held by such shareholders, and (b) at the effective time of the Merger, each share of Medtronic, Inc. common stock will be converted into the right to receive one New Medtronic share. The total cash and stock value of the Pending Acquisition is approximately $42.9 billion based on Medtronic, Inc.’s closing share price of $60.70 on June 13, 2014. It is expected that immediately after the closing of the Pending Acquisition, Covidien shareholders will own approximately 30 percent of New Medtronic on a fully diluted basis. Shares of New Medtronic are expected to trade on the New York Stock Exchange.								Current assets	$	6
									Property, plant, and equipment		1
	The Transaction Agreement may be terminated by mutual written consent of the parties. The Transaction Agreement also contains certain termination rights, including, among others, the right of either party to terminate if (a) the Arrangement has not become effective by March 15, 2015 (the End Date), subject to certain conditions, provided that the End Date will be extended to June 15, 2015 in certain circumstances, (b) the Covidien or Medtronic, Inc. shareholder approvals are not obtained, (c) the other party breaches its representations and covenants and such breach would result in the closing conditions not being satisfied, subject to a cure period, (d) the Irish High Court declines to sanction the Arrangement, unless both parties agree to appeal the decision, or (e) there is a failure of the tax condition as described in Medtronic, Inc.’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) on June 16, 2014. Covidien also has the right, prior to the receipt of Covidien shareholder approval, to terminate the Transaction Agreement to accept a Covidien Superior Proposal (as defined in the Transaction Agreement) in certain circumstances.								Intangible assets		94
									Goodwill		132
	The Transaction Agreement also provides that Medtronic, Inc. must pay Covidien a termination fee of $850 million if the Transaction Agreement is terminated because the Medtronic, Inc. board of directors changes its recommendation for the transaction and the Medtronic, Inc. shareholders vote against the Transaction, and either (i) Covidien obtained the requisite Covidien shareholder approval or (ii) Medtronic, Inc. effected such termination prior to the completion of the Covidien shareholder meeting.
									Total assets acquired		233
	The consummation of the Pending Acquisition is subject to certain conditions, including approvals by Medtronic, Inc. and Covidien shareholders. In addition, the proposed transaction requires regulatory clearances in the U.S., the European Union, China, and certain other countries. The Pending Acquisition is expected to close in the fourth calendar quarter of 2014 or early 2015. Covidien is a global health care products company that creates innovative medical solutions for better patient outcomes and delivers value through clinical leadership and excellence. Covidien develops, manufactures, and sells a diverse range of industry-leading medical device and supply products.
	See Note 8 to the condensed consolidated financial statements for further information regarding the financing of the Pending Acquisition.								Current liabilities		4
									Long-term deferred tax liabilities, net		7
	Visualase, Inc.
									Total liabilities assumed		11
	On July 25, 2014, Medtronic acquired Visualase, Inc. (Visualase), a privately held developer of minimally invasive MRI guided laser ablation for surgical applications. Total consideration for the transaction was approximately $97 million. Based upon a preliminary acquisition valuation, Medtronic acquired $66 million of technology-based intangible assets with an estimated useful life of 10 years at the time of acquisition and $49 million of goodwill. The acquired goodwill is not deductible for tax purposes.
									Net assets acquired	$	222
	Corventis, Inc.
	On June 20, 2014, Medtronic acquired Corventis, Inc. (Corventis), a privately held developer of wearable, wireless technologies for cardiac disease. Total consideration for the transaction was approximately $131 million, including settlement of outstanding debt to Medtronic of $50 million. Based upon a preliminary acquisition valuation, Medtronic acquired $80 million of technology-based intangible assets with an estimated useful life of 16 years at the time of acquisition and $50 million of goodwill. The acquired goodwill is not deductible for tax purposes.								Cardiocom, LLC
									On August 7, 2013, the Company acquired Cardiocom, LLC (Cardiocom), a privately-held developer and provider of integrated solutions for the management of chronic diseases such as heart failure, diabetes, and hypertension. Cardiocom’s products and services include remote monitoring and patient-centered software to enable efficient care coordination and specialized telehealth nurse support. Total consideration for the transaction was approximately $193 million. Based upon the acquisition valuation, the Company acquired $61 million of customer-related intangible assets with an estimated useful life of 7 years and $123 million of goodwill. The acquired goodwill is deductible for tax purposes.
	TYRX, Inc.								The Company accounted for the acquisition of Cardiocom as a business combination using the acquisition method of accounting. The assets acquired and liabilities assumed were recorded at their respective fair values as of the acquisition date. The fair values of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed are as follows:
	On December 30, 2013, Medtronic acquired TYRX, Inc. (TYRX), a privately held developer of antibiotic drug and implanted medical device combinations. TYRX’s products include those designed to reduce surgical site infections associated with implantable pacemakers, defibrillators, and spinal cord neurostimulators. Under the terms of the agreement, the transaction included an initial up-front payment of $159 million, representing a purchase price amount that was net of acquired cash, including the assumption and settlement of existing TYRX debt and direct acquisition costs. Total consideration for the transaction was approximately $222 million, which included estimated fair values for product development-based and revenue-based contingent consideration of $25 million and $35 million, respectively. The product development-based contingent consideration includes a future potential payment of $40 million upon achieving certain milestones, and the revenue-based contingent consideration payments would be equal to TYRX’s actual annual revenue growth for Medtronic’s fiscal years 2015 and 2016. Based upon a preliminary acquisition valuation, Medtronic acquired $94 million of technology-based intangible assets with an estimated useful life of 14 years at the time of acquisition and $132 million of goodwill. The acquired goodwill is not deductible for tax purposes.
									(in millions)
	The fair values of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed are as follows:								Current assets	$	14
									Property, plant, and equipment		7
									Intangible assets		61
									Goodwill		123
	(in millions)
	Current assets	$	6						Total assets acquired		205
	Property, plant, and equipment		1
	Intangible assets		94						Current liabilities		12
	Goodwill		132
									Total liabilities assumed		12
	Total assets acquired		233
									Net assets acquired	$	193
	Current liabilities		4
	Long-term deferred tax liabilities, net		7						Acquisition-Related Items
									During fiscal year 2014, the Company recorded net charges from acquisition-related items of $117 million, primarily including IPR&D and long-lived asset impairment charges of $236 million related to the Ardian, Inc. (Ardian) acquisition and income of $138 million related to the change in fair value of contingent consideration associated with acquisitions subsequent to April 29, 2009. The Ardian impairment resulted from the Company’s January 2014 announcement that the U.S. pivotal trial in renal denervation for treatment-resistant hypertension, Symplicity HTN-3, failed to meet its primary efficacy endpoint. Based on the results of the trial, the Company suspended enrollment of its renal denervation hypertension trials that were being conducted in the U.S., Japan, and India. These impairment charges consisted of $192 million related to IPR&D and $44 million related to other long-lived assets. For additional information regarding these impairment assessments, refer to Note 6. The change in fair value of contingent consideration primarily related to adjustments for Ardian, which are based on annual revenue growth through fiscal year 2015. As there was no projected revenue growth through fiscal year 2015, no contingent consideration remained as of April 25, 2014. These amounts are included within acquisition-related items in the consolidated statements of earnings.
	Total liabilities assumed		11						Fiscal Year 2013
									China Kanghui Holdings
	Net assets acquired	$	222						On November 1, 2012, the Company acquired China Kanghui Holdings (Kanghui). Kanghui is a Chinese manufacturer and distributor of orthopedic products in trauma, spine, and joint reconstruction. Total consideration for the transaction was approximately $816 million. The total value of the transaction, net of Kanghui’s cash, was approximately $797 million. Based on the acquisition valuation, the Company acquired $288 million of technology-based assets and $53 million of tradenames and customer-related intangible assets that each had a weighted average estimated useful life of 11 years and $409 million of goodwill. The acquired goodwill is not deductible for tax purposes.
									The Company accounted for the acquisition of Kanghui as a business combination using the acquisition method of accounting. The assets acquired and liabilities assumed were recorded at their respective fair values as of the acquisition date. The fair values of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed are as follows:
	Medtronic accounted for the acquisitions of Corventis, Visualase, and TYRX as business combinations using the acquisition method of accounting.
									(in millions)
	Subsequent Acquisitions								Current assets	$	106
									Property, plant, and equipment		56
	On August 26, 2014, Medtronic acquired NGC Medical S.p.A. (NGC), a privately-held Italian company that offers a broad suite of hospital managed services. Medtronic had previously invested in NGC and held a 30 percent ownership position in that company. The total consideration, net of this previously-held ownership position, was approximately $238 million.								Intangible assets		341
									Goodwill		409
	On August 25, 2014, Medtronic acquired Sapiens Steering Brain Stimulation, a privately-held developer of deep brain stimulation technologies. The total consideration for the transaction was approximately $200 million.								Other assets		11
	Acquisition-Related Items								Total assets acquired		923
	During the three months ended July 25, 2014, Medtronic recorded acquisition-related items of $41 million primarily due to costs incurred in connection with the pending Covidien acquisition (an SEC filing fee, amortization of bridge financing fees, advisory, legal, and other costs).								Current liabilities		29
									Long-term deferred tax liabilities, net		77
	During the three months ended July 26, 2013, Medtronic recorded net income from acquisition-related items of $96 million related to the change in fair value of contingent consideration payments associated with Ardian, Inc. (Ardian) acquisition, which is based on annual revenue growth through fiscal year 2015.								Other long-term liabilities		1
									Total liabilities assumed		107
	Contingent Consideration								Net assets acquired	$	816
	Certain of Medtronic’s business combinations and purchases of intellectual property involve the potential for the payment of future contingent consideration upon the achievement of certain product development milestones and/or various other favorable operating conditions. Payment of the additional consideration is generally contingent on the acquired company reaching certain performance milestones, including attaining specified revenue levels or achieving product development targets. For business combinations subsequent to April 24, 2009, a liability is recorded for the estimated fair value of the contingent consideration on the acquisition date. The fair value of the contingent consideration is remeasured at each reporting period and the change in fair value recognized as income or expense within acquisition-related items in the condensed consolidated statements of earnings. Medtronic measures the liability on a recurring basis using Level 3 inputs. See Note 7 for further information regarding fair value measurements.								Acquisition-Related Items
									During fiscal year 2013, the Company recorded net income from acquisition-related items of $49 million, primarily including income of $62 million related to the change in fair value of contingent consideration associated with acquisitions subsequent to April 29, 2009. The change in fair value of contingent consideration primarily related to the reduction in fair value of contingent consideration associated with Ardian due to a slower commercial ramp in Europe. Additionally, the Company recorded transaction-related expenses of $13 million. These amounts are included within acquisition-related items in the consolidated statements of earnings.
	The fair value of contingent consideration is measured using projected payment dates, discount rates, probabilities of payment, and projected revenues (for revenue-based considerations). Projected contingent payment amounts are discounted back to the current period using a discounted cash flow model. Projected revenues are based on Medtronic’s most recent internal operational budgets and long-range strategic plans. Increases (decreases) in projected revenues, probabilities of payment, discount rates, or projected payment dates may result in a higher (lower) fair value measurement. Fluctuations in any of the inputs may result in a significantly lower (higher) fair value measurement.								Fiscal Year 2012
									Salient Surgical Technologies, Inc.
The recurring Level 3 fair value measurements of contingent consideration include the following significant unobservable inputs:								On August 31, 2011, the Company acquired Salient Surgical Technologies, Inc. (Salient). Salient develops and markets devices for haemostatic sealing of soft tissue and bone incorporating advanced energy technology. Salient’s devices are used in a variety of surgical procedures including orthopedic surgery, spine, open abdominal, and thoracic procedures. Total consideration for the transaction was approximately $497 million. Medtronic had previously invested in Salient and held an 8.9 percent ownership position in the company. Net of this ownership position, the transaction value was approximately $452 million. Based upon the acquisition valuation, the Company acquired $154 million of technology-based intangible assets that had an estimated useful life of 12 years, $44 million of IPR&D, and $348 million of goodwill. The IPR&D primarily relates to the launch of Salient’s concentric wire product. The acquired goodwill is not deductible for tax purposes.
								The Company accounted for the acquisition of Salient as a business combination using the acquisition method of accounting. The assets acquired and liabilities assumed were recorded at their respective fair values as of the acquisition date. The fair values of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed are as follows:
($ in millions)	Fair Value at			Valuation		Unobservable Input	Range
	July 25, 2014			Technique				(in millions)
						Discount rate	13.5% - 24%	Current assets	$	20
Revenue-based payments	$	62		Discounted cash flow		Probability of payment	100%	Property, plant, and equipment		11
						Projected fiscal year of payment	2015 - 2019	IPR&D		44
						Discount rate	5.50%	Other intangible assets		154
Product development-based payments	$	25		Discounted cash flow		Probability of payment	75%	Goodwill		348
						Projected fiscal year of payment	2018	Other assets		1
At July 25, 2014, the estimated maximum amount of undiscounted future contingent consideration that Medtronic is expected to make associated with all completed business combinations or purchases of intellectual property prior to April 24, 2009 was approximately $198 million. Medtronic estimates the milestones or other conditions associated with the contingent consideration will be reached in fiscal year 2015 and thereafter.								Total assets acquired		578
The fair value of contingent consideration associated with acquisitions subsequent to April 24, 2009, as of July 25, 2014 and April 25, 2014, was $87 million and $68 million, respectively. As of July 25, 2014, $68 million was reflected in other long-term liabilities and $19 million was reflected in other accrued expensesin the condensed consolidated balance sheets. As of April 25, 2014, $51 million was reflected in other long-term liabilities and $17 million was reflected in other accrued expenses in the condensed consolidated balance sheets. The portion of the contingent consideration paid related to the acquisition date fair value is reported as financing activities in the condensed consolidated statements of cash flows. Amounts paid in excess of the original acquisition date fair value are reported as operating activities in the condensed consolidated statements of cash flows. The following table provides a reconciliation of the beginning and ending balances of contingent consideration associated with acquisitions subsequent to April 24, 2009:								Current liabilities		43
								Long-term deferred tax liabilities, net		38
								Total liabilities assumed		81
	Three months ended
(in millions)	July 25, 2014			July 26, 2013				Net assets acquired	$	497
Beginning Balance	$	68		$	142
Purchase price contingent consideration		23			—			PEAK Surgical, Inc.
Contingent consideration payments		(5	)		(1	)		On August 31, 2011, the Company acquired PEAK Surgical, Inc. (PEAK). PEAK develops and markets tissue dissection devices incorporating advanced energy technology. Total consideration for the transaction was approximately $113 million. Medtronic had previously invested in PEAK and held an 18.9 percent ownership position in the company. Net of this ownership position, the transaction value was approximately $96 million. Based upon the acquisition valuation, the Company acquired $74 million of technology-based intangible assets that had an estimated useful life of 12 years, and $56 million of goodwill. The acquired goodwill is not deductible for tax purposes.
Change in fair value of contingent consideration		1			(96	)		The Company accounted for the acquisition of PEAK as a business combination using the acquisition method of accounting. The assets acquired and liabilities assumed were recorded at their respective fair values as of the acquisition date. The fair values of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed are as follows:
Ending Balance	$	87		$	45
								(in millions)
								Current assets	$	5
								Property, plant, and equipment		5
								Intangible assets		74
								Goodwill		56
								Total assets acquired		140
								Current liabilities		10
								Long-term deferred tax liabilities, net		17
								Total liabilities assumed		27
								Net assets acquired	$	113
								Acquisition-Related Items
								During fiscal year 2012, the Company recorded net charges from acquisition-related items of $12 million, primarily including charges of $45 million related to the change in fair value of contingent consideration associated with acquisitions subsequent to April 29, 2009. Additionally, in connection with the acquisitions of Salient and PEAK, the Company recognized gains of $32 million and $6 million, respectively, on its previously-held investments. These amounts are included within acquisition-related items in the consolidated statements of earnings.
								Contingent Consideration
								Certain of the Company’s business combinations and purchases of intellectual property involve the potential for the payment of future contingent consideration upon the achievement of certain product development milestones and/or various other favorable operating conditions. Payment of the additional consideration is generally contingent on the acquired company reaching certain performance milestones, including attaining specified revenue levels or achieving product development targets. For business combinations subsequent to April 24, 2009, a liability is recorded for the estimated fair value of the contingent consideration on the acquisition date. The fair value of the contingent consideration is remeasured at each reporting period with the change in fair value recognized as income or expense within acquisition-related items in the consolidated statements of earnings. The Company measures the liability on a recurring basis using Level 3 inputs. See Note 6 for further information regarding fair value measurements.
								The fair value of contingent consideration is measured using projected payment dates, discount rates, probabilities of payment, and projected revenues (for revenue-based considerations). Projected contingent payment amounts are discounted back to the current period using a discounted cash flow model. Projected revenues are based on the Company’s most recent internal operational budgets and long-range strategic plans. Increases (decreases) in projected revenues, probabilities of payment, discount rates, or projected payment dates may result in higher (lower) fair value measurements. Fluctuations in any of the inputs may result in a significantly lower (higher) fair value measurement.
								The recurring Level 3 fair value measurements of contingent consideration include the following significant unobservable inputs:
								($ in millions)	Fair Value at			Valuation		Unobservable Input	Range
									April 25, 2014			Technique
														Discount rate	13.5% - 24%
								Revenue-based payments	$	43		Discounted cash flow		Probability of payment	100%
														Projected fiscal year of payment	2015 - 2019
														Discount rate	5.50%
								Product development-	$	25		Discounted cash flow		Probability of payment	75% - 100%
								based payments						Projected fiscal year of payment	2015 - 2018
								At April 25, 2014, the estimated maximum potential amount of undiscounted future contingent consideration that the Company is expected to make associated with all completed business combinations or purchases of intellectual property prior to April 24, 2009 was approximately $199 million. The Company estimates the milestones or other conditions associated with the contingent consideration will be reached in fiscal year 2015 and thereafter.
								The fair value of contingent consideration associated with acquisitions subsequent to April 24, 2009, as of April 25, 2014 and April 26, 2013, was $68 million and $142 million, respectively. As of April 25, 2014, $51 million was reflected in other long-term liabilities and $17 million was reflected in other accrued expenses in the consolidated balance sheets. As of April 26, 2013, $120 million was reflected in other long-term liabilities and $22 million was reflected in other accrued expenses in the consolidated balance sheets. The portion of the contingent consideration related to the acquisition date fair value is reported as financing activities in the consolidated statements of cash flows. Amounts paid in excess of the original acquisition date fair value are reported as operating activities in the consolidated statements of cash flows. The following table provides a reconciliation of the beginning and ending balances of contingent consideration associated with acquisitions subsequent to April 24, 2009:
									Fiscal Year
								(in millions)	2014			2013
								Beginning Balance	$	142		$	231
								Purchase price contingent consideration		65			3
								Contingent consideration payments		(1	)		(30	)
								Change in fair value of contingent consideration		(138	)		(62	)
								Ending Balance	$	68		$	142

Special_Charges_and_Certain_Li

Special Charges and Certain Litigation Charges, Net	3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Jul. 25, 2014	Apr. 25, 2014
Text Block [Abstract]	'	'
Special Charges and Certain Litigation Charges, Net	'	'
		2. Special Charges and Certain Litigation Charges, Net
	Note 4 – Special Charges and Certain Litigation Charges, Net	Special Charges
		During fiscal year 2014, consistent with the Company’s commitment to improving the health of people and communities throughout the world, the Company made a $40 million charitable contribution to the Medtronic Foundation, which is a related party non-profit organization.
	Special Charges	During fiscal years 2013 and 2012, there were no special charges.
		Certain Litigation Charges, Net
	During the three months ended July 26, 2013, consistent with Medtronic’s commitment to improving the health of people and communities throughout the world, Medtronic made a $40 million charitable contribution to the Medtronic Foundation, which is a related party non-profit organization.	The Company classifies material litigation charges and gains recognized as certain litigation charges, net.
		During fiscal year 2014, the Company recorded certain litigation charges, net of $770 million, which primarily includes the global patent settlement agreement with Edwards Lifesciences Corporation (Edwards) of $589 million, accounting charges for probable and reasonably estimable INFUSE product liability litigation of $140 million, and other litigation. Refer to Note 18 for additional information.
	Certain Litigation Charges, Net	During fiscal year 2013, the Company recorded certain litigation charges, net of $245 million related to probable and reasonably estimated damages resulting from patent litigation with Edwards. Refer to Note 18 for additional information.
		During fiscal year 2012, the Company recorded certain litigation charges, net of $90 million related to the agreement to settle the federal securities class action initiated in December 2008 by the Minneapolis Firefighters’ Relief Association. During the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2012, Medtronic settled all of these class claims for $85 million and incurred $5 million in additional litigation fees.
	Medtronic classifies material litigation reserves and gains recognized as certain litigation charges, net. During the three months ended July 25, 2014 and July 26, 2013, there were no certain litigation charges, net.

Restructuring_Charges_Net

Restructuring Charges, Net	3 Months Ended													12 Months Ended
	Jul. 25, 2014													Apr. 25, 2014
Restructuring and Related Activities [Abstract]	'													'
Restructuring Charges, Net	'													'
														3. Restructuring Charges, Net
	Note 5 – Restructuring Charges, Net													Fiscal Year 2014 Initiative
														In the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2014, the Company recorded a $116 million restructuring charge, which consisted of employee termination costs of $65 million, asset write-downs of $26 million, contract termination costs of $3 million, and other related costs of $22 million. Of the $26 million of asset write-downs, $10 million related to inventory write-offs of discontinued product lines and production-related asset impairments, and therefore, was recorded within cost of products sold in the consolidated statements of earnings. The fiscal year 2014 initiative primarily relates to the Company’s renal denervation business, certain manufacturing shut-downs, and a reduction of back-office support functions in Europe.
	Fiscal Year 2014 Initiative													As of the end of the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2014, the Company identified approximately 600 positions for elimination to be achieved primarily through involuntary separation. The fiscal year 2014 initiative is scheduled to be substantially complete by the end of the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2015.
	The fiscal year 2014 initiative primarily related to Medtronic’s renal denervation business, certain manufacturing shut-downs, and a reduction of back-office support functions in Europe. In the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2014, Medtronic recorded a $116 million restructuring charge, which consisted of employee termination costs of $65 million, asset write-downs of $26 million, contract termination costs of $3 million, and other related costs of $22 million. Of the $26 million of asset write-downs, $10 million related to inventory write-offs of discontinued product lines and production-related asset impairments, and therefore, was recorded within cost of products sold in the condensed consolidated statements of earnings. In the first quarter of fiscal year 2015, Medtronic recorded a $38 million restructuring charge, which was the final charge related to the fiscal year 2014 initiative and consisted primarily of contract termination and other related costs of $28 million. The fiscal year 2014 initiative is scheduled to be substantially complete by the end of the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2015.													A summary of the activity related to the fiscal year 2014 initiative is presented below:
	As a result of certain employees identified for elimination finding other positions within Medtronic and revisions to particular strategies, Medtronic recorded a $6 million reversal of excess restructuring reserves in the first quarter of fiscal year 2015.
															Fiscal Year 2014 Initiative
														(in millions)	Employee			Asset			Other			Total
															Termination			Write-downs			Costs
	A summary of the activity related to the fiscal year 2014 initiative is presented below:														Costs
														Balance as of April 26, 2013	$	—		$	—		$	—		$	—
														Restructuring charges		65			26			25			116
														Payments/write-downs		(1	)		(26	)		(14	)		(41	)
	(in millions)	Employee			Asset			Other			Total
		Termination			Write-downs			Costs						Balance as of April 25, 2014	$	64		$	—		$	11		$	75
		Costs
	Balance as of April 25, 2014	$	64		$	—		$	11		$	75		Fiscal Year 2013 Initiative
	Restructuring charges		1			9			28			38		The fiscal year 2013 initiative was designed to scale back the Company’s infrastructure in slower growing areas of the business, while continuing to invest in geographies, businesses, and products where faster growth is anticipated. A number of factors have contributed to ongoing challenging market dynamics, including increased pricing pressure, various governmental austerity measures, and the U.S. medical device excise tax. In the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2013, the Company recorded a $192 million restructuring charge, which consisted of employee termination costs of $150 million, asset write-downs of $13 million, contract termination costs of $18 million, and other related costs of $11 million. Of the $13 million of asset write-downs, $10 million related to inventory write-offs of discontinued product lines and production-related asset impairments, and therefore, was recorded within cost of products sold in the consolidated statements of earnings. In the first quarter of fiscal year 2014, the Company recorded an $18 million restructuring charge, which was the final charge related to the fiscal year 2013 initiative and consisted primarily of contract termination costs of $14 million and other related costs of $4 million.
	Payments/write-downs		(17	)		(9	)		(19	)		(45	)	As of the end of the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2013, the Company identified approximately 2,000 positions for elimination to be achieved through involuntary and voluntary separation.
	Reversal of excess accrual		(6	)		—			—			(6	)	In fiscal year 2014, the Company recorded a reversal of excess restructuring reserves related to the fiscal year 2013 initiative of $46 million. The reversal was primarily a result of revisions to particular strategies and certain employees identified for elimination finding other positions within the Company.
														As a result of certain legal requirements outside the U.S., the fiscal year 2013 initiative is scheduled to be substantially complete by the end of the third quarter of fiscal year 2016.
	Balance as of July 25, 2014	$	42		$	—		$	20		$	62
														A summary of the activity related to the fiscal year 2013 initiative is presented below:
	Fiscal Year 2013 Initiative
															Fiscal Year 2013 Initiative
	The fiscal year 2013 initiative was designed to scale back Medtronic’s infrastructure in slower growing areas of the business, while continuing to invest in geographies, businesses, and products where faster growth is anticipated. A number of factors have contributed to ongoing challenging market dynamics, including increased pricing pressure, various governmental austerity measures, and the U.S. medical device excise tax. In the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2013, Medtronic recorded a $192 million restructuring charge, which consisted of employee termination costs of $150 million, asset write-downs of $13 million, contract termination costs of $18 million, and other related costs of $11 million. Of the $13 million of asset write-downs, $10 million related to inventory write-offs of discontinued product lines and production-related asset impairments, and therefore, was recorded within cost of products sold in the condensed consolidated statements of earnings. In the first quarter of fiscal year 2014, Medtronic recorded an $18 million restructuring charge, which was the final charge related to the fiscal year 2013 initiative and consisted primarily of contract termination costs of $14 million and other related costs of $4 million.													(in millions)	Employee			Asset			Other			Total
															Termination			Write-downs			Costs
	In the first quarter of fiscal year 2015, Medtronic recorded a $2 million reversal of excess restructuring reserves as a result of certain employees identified for elimination finding other positions within Medtronic and revisions to particular strategies.														Costs
														Balance as of April 27, 2012	$	—		$	—		$	—		$	—
	As a result of certain legal requirements outside the U.S., the fiscal year 2013 initiative is scheduled to be substantially complete by the end of the third quarter of fiscal year 2016.													Restructuring charges		150			13			29			192
														Payments/write-downs		(3	)		(13	)		(6	)		(22	)
	A summary of the activity related to the fiscal year 2013 initiative is presented below:
														Balance as of April 26, 2013	$	147		$	—		$	23		$	170
														Restructuring charges		—			—			18			18
														Payments		(79	)		—			(39	)		(118	)
	(in millions)	Employee			Other			Total						Reversal of excess accrual		(45	)		—			(1	)		(46	)
		Termination			Costs
		Costs												Balance as of April 25, 2014	$	23		$	—		$	1		$	24
	Balance as of April 25, 2014	$	23		$	1		$	24
	Payments		(5	)		(1	)		(6	)				Fiscal Year 2012 Initiative
	Reversal of excess accrual		(2	)		—			(2	)				In the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2012, the Company recorded a $118 million restructuring charge, which consisted of employee termination costs of $66 million, asset write-downs of $9 million, contract termination costs of $30 million, and other related costs of $13 million. The fiscal year 2012 initiative was designed to reduce general, administrative, and indirect distribution costs in certain organizations within the Company while prioritizing investment in research and development, and sales and marketing in those organizations within the Company where faster growth is anticipated, such as emerging markets and new technologies.
														As of the end of the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2012, the Company identified approximately 1,000 positions for elimination to be achieved through involuntary and voluntary separation. As of April 26, 2013, the fiscal year 2012 initiative was substantially complete.
	Balance as of July 25, 2014	$	16		$	—		$	16					In the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2013, the Company recorded a $10 million reversal of excess restructuring reserves related to the fiscal year 2012 initiative. This reversal was primarily a result of revisions to particular strategies and certain employees identified for elimination finding other positions within the Company.
														A summary of the activity related to the fiscal year 2012 initiative is presented below:
															Fiscal Year 2012 Initiative
														(in millions)	Employee			Asset			Other			Total
															Termination			Write-downs			Costs
															Costs
														Balance as of April 29, 2011	$	—		$	—		$	—		$	—
														Restructuring charges		66			9			43			118
														Payments/write-downs		(2	)		(9	)		(16	)		(27	)
														Balance as of April 27, 2012	$	64		$	—		$	27		$	91
														Payments		(54	)		—			(23	)		(77	)
														Reversal of excess accrual		(10	)		—			—			(10	)
														Balance as of April 26, 2013	$	—		$	—		$	4		$	4
														Payments		—			—			(4	)		(4	)
														Balance as of April 25, 2014	$	—		$	—		$	—		$	—

Investments

Investments	3 Months Ended														12 Months Ended
	Jul. 25, 2014														Apr. 25, 2014
Text Block [Abstract]	'														'
Investments	'														'
															5. Investments
	Note 6 – Investments														The Company holds investments consisting primarily of marketable debt and equity securities.
															Information regarding the Company’s investments at April 25, 2014 is as follows:
	Medtronic holds investments consisting primarily of marketable debt and equity securities.
	Information regarding Medtronic’s investments at July 25, 2014 is as follows:														(in millions)		Cost			Unrealized			Unrealized			Fair Value
																				Gains			Losses
															Available-for-sale securities:
															Corporate debt securities		$	5,504		$	55		$	(17	)	$	5,542
	(in millions)		Cost			Unrealized			Unrealized			Fair Value			Auction rate securities			109			—			(12	)		97
						Gains			Losses						Mortgage-backed securities			1,337			7			(8	)		1,336
	Available-for-sale securities:														U.S. government and agency securities			3,138			7			(29	)		3,116
	Corporate debt securities		$	5,429		$	65		$	(10	)	$	5,484		Foreign government and agency securities			67			—			—			67
	Auction rate securities			109			—			(10	)		99		Certificates of deposit			54			—			—			54
	Mortgage-backed securities			1,252			10			(8	)		1,254		Other asset-backed securities			540			2			—			542
	U.S. government and agency securities			2,748			7			(22	)		2,733		Debt funds			2,143			9			(29	)		2,123
	Foreign government and agency securities			78			—			—			78		Marketable equity securities			47			15			(13	)		49
	Certificates of deposit			71			—			—			71		Trading securities:
	Other asset-backed securities			497			1			—			498		Exchange-traded funds			54			13			—			67
	Debt funds			2,446			48			(8	)		2,486		Cost method, equity method, and other investments			666			—			—			NA
	Marketable equity securities			52			14			(17	)		49
	Trading securities:														Total investments		$	13,659		$	108		$	(108	)	$	12,993
	Exchange-traded funds			54			15			—			69
	Cost method, equity method, and other investments			618			—			—			NA
															Information regarding the Company’s investments at April 26, 2013 is as follows:
	Total		$	13,354		$	160		$	(75	)	$	12,821
															(in millions)		Cost			Unrealized			Unrealized			Fair Value
	Information regarding Medtronic’s investments at April 25, 2014 is as follows:																			Gains			Losses
															Available-for-sale securities:
															Corporate debt securities		$	4,587		$	78		$	(4	)	$	4,661
															Auction rate securities			118			—			(15	)		103
	(in millions)		Cost			Unrealized			Unrealized			Fair Value			Mortgage-backed securities			1,050			8			(5	)		1,053
						Gains			Losses						U.S. government and agency securities			3,882			17			(1	)		3,898
	Available-for-sale securities:														Foreign government and agency securities			38			—			—			38
	Corporate debt securities		$	5,504		$	55		$	(17	)	$	5,542		Certificates of deposit			6			—			—			6
	Auction rate securities			109			—			(12	)		97		Other asset-backed securities			539			2			—			541
	Mortgage-backed securities			1,337			7			(8	)		1,336		Marketable equity securities			82			75			(2	)		155
	U.S. government and agency securities			3,138			7			(29	)		3,116		Trading securities:
	Foreign government and agency securities			67			—			—			67		Exchange-traded funds			45			5			—			50
	Certificates of deposit			54			—			—			54		Cost method, equity method, and other investments			549			—			—			NA
	Other asset-backed securities			540			2			—			542
	Debt funds			2,143			9			(29	)		2,123		Total investments		$	10,896		$	185		$	(27	)	$	10,505
	Marketable equity securities			47			15			(13	)		49
	Trading securities:														Information regarding the Company’s consolidated balance sheets presentation at April 25, 2014 and April 26, 2013 is as follows:
	Exchange-traded funds			54			13			—			67
	Cost method, equity method, and other investments			666			—			—			NA
																	April 25, 2014						April 26, 2013
	Total		$	13,659		$	108		$	(108	)	$	12,993		(in millions)		Investments			Other Assets			Investments			Other Assets
															Available-for-sale securities		$	12,771		$	155		$	10,161		$	294
															Trading securities			67			—			50			—
															Cost method, equity method, and other investments			—			666			—			549
	Information regarding Medtronic’s condensed consolidated balance sheet presentation at July 25, 2014 and April 25, 2014 is as follows:														Total		$	12,838		$	821		$	10,211		$	843
															The following tables show the gross unrealized losses and fair values of the Company’s available-for-sale securities that have been in a continuous unrealized loss position deemed to be temporary, aggregated by investment category as of April 25, 2014 and April 26, 2013:
			July 25, 2014						April 25, 2014
	(in millions)		Investments			Other Assets			Investments			Other Assets
	Available-for-sale securities		$	12,557		$	195		$	12,771		$	155				April 25, 2014
	Trading securities			69			—			67			—				Less than 12 Months						More than 12 Months
	Cost method, equity method, and other investments			—			618			—			666		(in millions)		Fair Value			Unrealized			Fair Value			Unrealized
																				Losses						Losses
	Total		$	12,626		$	813		$	12,838		$	821		Corporate debt securities		$	1,601		$	(14	)	$	50		$	(3	)
															Auction rate securities			—			—			97			(12	)
															Mortgage-backed securities			682			(7	)		28			(1	)
	The following tables show the gross unrealized losses and fair values of Medtronic’s available-for-sale securities that have been in a continuous unrealized loss position deemed to be temporary, aggregated by investment category as of July 25, 2014 and April 25, 2014:														U.S. government and agency securities			1,500			(27	)		46			(2	)
															Debt funds			1,224			(29	)		—			—
														Marketable equity securities			25			(13	)		—			—
		July 25, 2014												Total		$	5,032		$	(90	)	$	221		$	(18	)
		Less than 12 months						More than 12 months
(in millions)		Fair Value			Unrealized			Fair Value			Unrealized
					Losses						Losses					26-Apr-13
Corporate debt securities		$	1,200		$	(5	)	$	273		$	(5	)			Less than 12 Months						More than 12 Months
Auction rate securities			—			—			99			(10	)	(in millions)		Fair Value			Unrealized			Fair Value			Unrealized
Mortgage-backed securities			353			(3	)		333			(5	)						Losses						Losses
U.S. government and agency securities			754			(1	)		784			(21	)	Corporate debt securities		$	544		$	(1	)	$	13		$	(3	)
Debt funds			454			(1	)		141			(7	)	Auction rate securities			—			—			103			(15	)
Marketable equity securities			21			(17	)		—			—		Mortgage-backed securities			195			(1	)		44			(4	)
														U.S. government and agency securities			291			(1	)		—			—
Total		$	2,782		$	(27	)	$	1,630		$	(48	)	Marketable equity securities			14			(2	)		—			—
														Total		$	1,044		$	(5	)	$	160		$	(22	)
														Activity related to the Company’s investment portfolio is as follows:
		April 25, 2014
		Less than 12 months						More than 12 months
(in millions)		Fair Value			Unrealized			Fair Value			Unrealized					Fiscal Year
					Losses						Losses					2014						2013						2012
Corporate debt securities		$	1,601		$	(14	)	$	50		$	(3	)	(in millions)		Debt (a)			Equity (b)			Debt (a)			Equity (b)			Debt (a)			Equity (b) (c)
Auction rate securities			—			—			97			(12	)	Proceeds from sales		$	7,991		$	120		$	10,350		$	161		$	7,675		$	113
Mortgage-backed securities			682			(7	)		28			(1	)
U.S. government and agency securities			1,500			(27	)		46			(2	)	Gross realized gains		$	15		$	69		$	59		$	94		$	52		$	93
Debt funds			1,224			(29	)		—			—
Marketable equity securities			25			(13	)		—			—		Gross realized losses		$	(12	)	$	—		$	(17	)	$	—		$	(16	)	$	—
Total		$	5,032		$	(90	)	$	221		$	(18	)	Impairment losses recognized		$	(1	)	$	(9	)	$	—		$	(21	)	$	(2	)	$	(10	)
														(a)	Includes available-for-sale debt securities.
Activity related to Medtronic’s investment portfolio is as follows:														(b)	Includes marketable equity securities, cost method, equity method, exchange-traded funds, and other investments.
														(c)	As a result of the Salient and PEAK acquisitions that occurred during fiscal year 2012, the Company recognized a non-cash gain of $38 million on its previously-held minority investments.
		Three months ended												Credit losses represent the difference between the present value of cash flows expected to be collected on certain mortgage-backed securities and auction rate securities and the amortized cost of these securities. Based on the Company’s assessment of the credit quality of the underlying collateral and credit support available to each of the remaining securities in which invested, the Company believes it has recorded all necessary other-than-temporary impairments as the Company does not have the intent to sell, nor is it more likely than not that the Company will be required to sell, before recovery of the amortized cost.
		July 25, 2014						July 26, 2013						As of April 25, 2014, April 26, 2013, and April 27, 2012, the credit loss portion of other-than-temporary impairments on debt securities was $4 million, $9 million, and $20 million, respectively. The total reductions for available-for-sale debt securities sold for the fiscal years ended April 25, 2014 and April 26, 2013 were $5 million and $11 million, respectively. The total other-than-temporary impairment losses on available-for-sale debt securities for the fiscal years ended April 25, 2014 and April 26, 2013 were not significant. The total other-than-temporary impairment losses on available-for-sale debt securities for the fiscal year ended April 27, 2012 was $6 million, of which $4 million was recognized in other comprehensive income and $2 million was recognized in earnings.
(in millions)		Debt (a)			Equity (b)			Debt (a)			Equity (b)			The April 25, 2014 balance of available-for-sale debt securities, excluding debt funds which have no single maturity date, by contractual maturity is shown in the following table. Within the table, maturities of mortgage-backed securities have been allocated based upon timing of estimated cash flows, assuming no change in the current interest rate environment. Actual maturities may differ from contractual maturities because the issuers of the securities may have the right to prepay obligations without prepayment penalties.
Proceeds from sales		$	1,830		$	23		$	2,163		$	32
Gross realized gains			11			19			6			18		(in millions)		April 25, 2014
														Due in one year or less		$	1,412
Gross realized losses			(3	)		—			(5	)		—		Due after one year through five years			6,368
														Due after five years through 10 years			2,859
Impairment losses recognized			—			(1	)		—			—		Due after 10 years			115
														Total debt securities		$	10,754
(a)	Includes available-for-sale debt securities.													As of April 25, 2014 and April 26, 2013, the aggregate carrying amount of equity and other securities without a quoted market price and accounted for using the cost or equity method was $666 million and $549 million, respectively. The total carrying value of these investments is reviewed quarterly for changes in circumstance or the occurrence of events that suggest the Company’s investment may not be recoverable. The value of cost or equity method investments is not adjusted if there are no identified events or changes in circumstances that may have a material adverse effect on the fair value of the investment.
														Gains and losses realized on trading securities and available-for-sale debt securities are recorded in interest expense, net in the consolidated statements of earnings. Gains and losses realized on marketable equity securities, cost method, equity method, and other investments are recorded in other expense, net in the consolidated statements of earnings. In addition, unrealized gains and losses on available-for-sale debt securities are recorded in other comprehensive income (loss) in the consolidated statements of comprehensive income and unrealized gains and losses on trading securities are recorded in interest expense, net in the consolidated statements of earnings. Gains and losses from the sale of investments are calculated based on the specific identification method.
(b)	Includes marketable equity securities, cost method, equity method, exchange-traded funds, and other investments.
Credit losses represent the difference between the present value of cash flows expected to be collected on certain mortgage-backed securities and auction rate securities and the amortized cost of these securities. Based on Medtronic’s assessment of the credit quality of the underlying collateral and credit support available to each of the remaining securities in which invested, Medtronic believes it has recorded all necessary other-than-temporary impairments as Medtronic does not have the intent to sell, nor is it more likely than not that Medtronic will be required to sell, before recovery of the amortized cost.
As of July 25, 2014 and April 25, 2014, the credit loss portion of other-than-temporary impairments on debt securities was $4 million. The total reductions for available-for-sale debt securities sold during the three months ended July 25, 2014 and July 26, 2013 were not significant. The total other-than-temporary impairment losses on available-for-sale debt securities for the three months ended July 25, 2014 and July 26, 2013 were not significant.
The July 25, 2014 balance of available-for-sale debt securities, excluding debt funds which have no single maturity date, by contractual maturity is shown in the following table. Within the table, maturities of mortgage-backed securities have been allocated based upon timing of estimated cash flows, assuming no change in the current interest rate environment. Actual maturities may differ from contractual maturities because the issuers of the securities may have the right to prepay obligations without prepayment penalties.
(in millions)		July 25, 2014
Due in one year or less		$	1,426
Due after one year through five years			5,961
Due after five years through ten years			2,689
Due after ten years			141
Total		$	10,217
As of July 25, 2014 and April 25, 2014, the aggregate carrying amount of equity and other securities without a quoted market price and accounted for using the cost or equity method was $618 million and $666 million, respectively. The total carrying value of these investments is reviewed quarterly for changes in circumstance or the occurrence of events that suggest Medtronic’s investment may not be recoverable. The value of cost or equity method investments is not adjusted if there are no identified events or changes in circumstances that may have a material adverse effect on the fair value of the investment.
Gains and losses realized on trading securities and available-for-sale debt securities are recorded in interest expense, net in the condensed consolidated statements of earnings. Gains and losses realized on marketable equity securities, cost method, equity method, and other investments are recorded in other expense, net in the condensed consolidated statements of earnings. In addition, unrealized gains and losses on available-for-sale debt securities are recorded in other comprehensive income (loss) in the condensed consolidated statements of comprehensive income and unrealized gains and losses on trading securities are recorded ininterest expense, net in the condensed consolidated statements of earnings. Gains and losses from the sale of investments are calculated based on the specific identification method.

Fair_Value_Measurements

Fair Value Measurements	3 Months Ended										12 Months Ended
	Jul. 25, 2014										Apr. 25, 2014
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]	'										'
Fair Value Measurements	'										'
											6. Fair Value Measurements
	Note 7 – Fair Value Measurements										The Company follows the authoritative guidance on fair value measurements and disclosures with respect to assets and liabilities that are measured at fair value on both a recurring and nonrecurring basis. Under this guidance, fair value is defined as the exit price, or the amount that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants as of the measurement date. The authoritative guidance also establishes a hierarchy for inputs used in measuring fair value that maximizes the use of observable inputs and minimizes the use of unobservable inputs by requiring that the most observable inputs be used when available. Observable inputs are inputs market participants would use in valuing the asset or liability, based on market data obtained from sources independent of the Company. Unobservable inputs are inputs that reflect the Company’s assumptions about the factors market participants would use in valuing the asset or liability developed based upon the best information available in the circumstances. The categorization of financial assets and financial liabilities within the valuation hierarchy is based upon the lowest level of input that is significant to the fair value measurement. The hierarchy is broken down into three levels defined as follows:
	Medtronic follows the authoritative guidance on fair value measurements and disclosures with respect to assets and liabilities that are measured at fair value on both a recurring and nonrecurring basis. Under this guidance, fair value is defined as the exit price, or the amount that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants as of the measurement date. The authoritative guidance also establishes a hierarchy for inputs used in measuring fair value that maximizes the use of observable inputs and minimizes the use of unobservable inputs by requiring that the most observable inputs be used when available. Observable inputs are inputs market participants would use in valuing the asset or liability, based on market data obtained from sources independent of Medtronic. Unobservable inputs are inputs that reflect Medtronic’s assumptions about the factors market participants would use in valuing the asset or liability developed based upon the best information available in the circumstances. The categorization of financial assets and financial liabilities within the valuation hierarchy is based upon the lowest level of input that is significant to the fair value measurement. The hierarchy is broken down into three levels. The hierarchy gives the highest priority to unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities (Level 1 measurement) and the lowest priority to unobservable inputs (Level 3 measurement). Descriptions of the three levels of the fair value hierarchy are discussed in Note 6 to the consolidated audited financial statements included in this joint proxy statement/prospectus.											•		Level 1 - Inputs are quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities.
	See the section below titled Valuation Techniques for further discussion of how Medtronic determines fair value for investments.											•		Level 2 - Inputs include quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in active markets, quoted prices for identical or similar assets or liabilities in markets that are not active, and inputs (other than quoted prices) that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly or indirectly.
	Assets and Liabilities That Are Measured at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis											•		Level 3 - Inputs are unobservable for the asset or liability.
											See the section below titled Valuation Techniques for further discussion of how the Company determines fair value for investments.
	The authoritative guidance is principally applied to financial assets and liabilities such as marketable equity securities and debt and equity securities that are classified and accounted for as trading, available-for-sale, and derivative instruments and contingent consideration associated with acquisitions subsequent to April 24, 2009. Derivatives include cash flow hedges, freestanding derivative forward contracts, and fair value hedges. These items are marked-to-market at each reporting period.										Assets and Liabilities That Are Measured at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis
											The authoritative guidance is principally applied to financial assets and liabilities such as marketable equity securities and debt and equity securities that are classified and accounted for as trading, available-for-sale, and derivative instruments and contingent consideration associated with acquisitions subsequent to April 24, 2009. Derivatives include cash flow hedges, freestanding derivative forward contracts, and fair value hedges. These items are marked-to-market at each reporting period.
											The following tables provide information by level for assets and liabilities that are measured at fair value on a recurring basis:
	The following tables provide information by level for assets and liabilities that are measured at fair value on a recurring basis:
													Fair Value			Fair Value Measurements
													as of			Using Inputs Considered as
		Fair Value			Fair Value Measurements						(in millions)		April 25, 2014			Level 1			Level 2			Level 3
		as of			Using Inputs Considered as						Assets:
	(in millions)	July 25, 2014			Level 1		Level 2		Level 3		Corporate debt securities		$	5,542		$	—		$	5,533		$	9
	Assets:										Auction rate securities			97			—			—			97
	Corporate debt securities	$	5,484		$	—	$	5,475	$	9	Mortgage-backed securities			1,336			—			1,336			—
	Auction rate securities		99			—		—		99	U.S. government and agency securities			3,116			1,251			1,865			—
	Mortgage-backed securities		1,254			—		1,254		—	Foreign government and agency securities			67			—			67			—
	U.S. government and agency securities		2,733			1,135		1,598		—	Certificates of deposit			54			—			54			—
	Foreign government and agency securities		78			—		78		—	Other asset-backed securities			542			—			542			—
	Certificates of deposit		71			—		71		—	Debt funds			2,123			—			2,123			—
	Other asset-backed securities		498			—		498		—	Marketable equity securities			49			49			—			—
	Debt funds		2,486			—		2,486		—	Exchange-traded funds			67			67			—			—
	Marketable equity securities		49			49		—		—	Derivative assets			175			89			86			—
	Exchange-traded funds		69			69		—		—
	Derivative assets		176			96		80		—	Total assets		$	13,168		$	1,456		$	11,606		$	106
	Total assets	$	12,997		$	1,349	$	11,540	$	108	Liabilities:
											Derivative liabilities		$	127		$	116		$	11		$	—
	Liabilities:										Contingent consideration associated with acquisitions subsequent to April 24, 2009			68			—			—			68
	Derivative liabilities	$	68		$	68	$	—	$	—
	Contingent consideration associated with acquisitions subsequent to April 24, 2009		87			—		—		87	Total liabilities		$	195		$	116		$	11		$	68
	Total liabilities	$	155		$	68	$	—	$	87			Fair Value			Fair Value Measurements
													as of			Using Inputs Considered as
											(in millions)		April 26, 2013			Level 1			Level 2			Level 3
											Assets:
											Corporate debt securities		$	4,661		$	—		$	4,651		$	10
		Fair Value			Fair Value Measurements						Auction rate securities			103			—			—			103
		as of			Using Inputs Considered as						Mortgage-backed securities			1,053			—			1,039			14
	(in millions)	April 25, 2014			Level 1		Level 2		Level 3		U.S. government and agency securities			3,898			1,833			2,065			—
	Assets:										Foreign government and agency securities			38			—			38			—
	Corporate debt securities	$	5,542		$	—	$	5,533	$	9	Certificates of deposit			6			—			6			—
	Auction rate securities		97			—		—		97	Other asset-backed securities			541			—			541			—
	Mortgage-backed securities		1,336			—		1,336		—	Marketable equity securities			155			155			—			—
	U.S. government and agency securities		3,116			1,251		1,865		—	Exchange-traded funds			50			50			—			—
	Foreign government and agency securities		67			—		67		—	Derivative assets			394			213			181			—
	Certificates of deposit		54			—		54		—
	Other asset-backed securities		542			—		542		—	Total assets		$	10,899		$	2,251		$	8,521		$	127
	Debt funds		2,123			—		2,123		—
	Marketable equity securities		49			49		—		—
	Exchange-traded funds		67			67		—		—	Liabilities:
	Derivative assets		175			89		86		—	Derivative liabilities		$	58		$	40		$	18		$	—
											Contingent consideration associated with acquisitions subsequent to April 24, 2009			142			—			—			142
	Total assets	$	13,168		$	1,456	$	11,606	$	106
											Total liabilities		$	200		$	40		$	18		$	142
	Liabilities:
	Derivative liabilities	$	127		$	116	$	11	$	—	Valuation Techniques
	Contingent consideration associated with acquisitions subsequent to April 24, 2009		68			—		—		68	Financial assets that are classified as Level 1 securities include highly liquid government bonds within U.S. government and agency securities, marketable equity securities, and exchange-traded funds for which quoted market prices are available. In addition, the Company has determined that foreign currency forward contracts will be included in Level 1 as these are valued using quoted market prices in active markets which have identical assets or liabilities.
											The valuation for most fixed maturity securities are classified as Level 2. Financial assets that are classified as Level 2 include corporate debt securities, U.S. government and agency securities, foreign government and agency securities, certificates of deposit, other asset-backed securities, debt funds, and certain mortgage-backed securities whose value is determined using inputs that are observable in the market or can be derived principally from, or corroborated by, observable market data such as pricing for similar securities, recently executed transactions, cash flow models with yield curves, and benchmark securities. In addition, interest rate swaps are included in Level 2 as the Company uses inputs other than quoted prices that are observable for the asset. The Level 2 derivative instruments are primarily valued using standard calculations and models that use readily observable market data as their basis.
	Total liabilities	$	195		$	116	$	11	$	68	Financial assets are considered Level 3 when their fair values are determined using pricing models, discounted cash flow methodologies, or similar techniques, and at least one significant model assumption or input is unobservable. Level 3 financial assets also include certain investment securities for which there is limited market activity such that the determination of fair value requires significant judgment or estimation. Level 3 investment securities include certain corporate debt securities, auction rate securities, and certain mortgage-backed securities. With the exception of auction rate securities, these securities were valued using third-party pricing sources that incorporate transaction details such as contractual terms, maturity, timing, and amount of expected future cash flows, as well as assumptions about liquidity and credit valuation adjustments by market participants. The fair value of auction rate securities is estimated by the Company using a discounted cash flow model, which incorporates significant unobservable inputs. The significant unobservable inputs used in the fair value measurement of the Company’s auction rate securities are years to principal recovery and the illiquidity premium that is incorporated into the discount rate. Significant increases (decreases) in any of those inputs in isolation would result in a significantly lower (higher) fair value of the securities. Additionally, the Company uses Level 3 inputs in the measurement of contingent consideration and related liabilities for all acquisitions subsequent to April 24, 2009. See Note 4 for further information regarding contingent consideration.
											The following table represents the range of the unobservable inputs utilized in the fair value measurement of the auction rate securities classified as Level 3 as of April 25, 2014:
	Valuation Techniques
													Valuation		Unobservable Input	Range
Financial assets that are classified as Level 1 securities include highly liquid government bonds within U.S. government and agency securities, marketable equity securities, and exchange-traded funds for which quoted market prices are available. In addition, Medtronic has determined that foreign currency forward contracts will be included in Level 1 as these are valued using quoted market prices in active markets which have identical assets or liabilities. The valuation for most fixed maturity securities are classified as Level 2. Financial assets that are classified as Level 2 include corporate debt securities, U.S. government and agency securities, foreign government and agency securities, certificates of deposit, other asset-backed securities, debt funds, and certain mortgage-backed securities whose value is determined using inputs that are observable in the market or can be derived principally from or corroborated by, observable market data such as pricing for similar securities, recently executed transactions, cash flow models with yield curves, and benchmark securities. In addition, interest rate swaps are included in Level 2 as Medtronic uses inputs other than quoted prices that are observable for the asset. The Level 2 derivative instruments are primarily valued using standard calculations and models that use readily observable market data as their basis.										Technique			(Weighted Average)
										Auction rate securities		Discounted cash flow		Years to principal recovery	2 yrs. - 12 yrs. (3 yrs.)
Financial assets are considered Level 3 when their fair values are determined using pricing models, discounted cash flow methodologies, or similar techniques, and at least one significant model assumption or input is unobservable. Level 3 financial assets also include certain investment securities for which there is limited market activity such that the determination of fair value requires significant judgment or estimation. Level 3 investment securities include certain corporate debt securities, auction rate securities, and certain mortgage-backed securities. With the exception of auction rate securities, these securities were valued using third-party pricing sources that incorporate transaction details such as contractual terms, maturity, timing, and amount of expected future cash flows, as well as assumptions about liquidity and credit valuation adjustments by market participants. The fair value of auction rate securities is estimated by Medtronic using a discounted cash flow model, which incorporates significant unobservable inputs. The significant unobservable inputs used in the fair value measurement of Medtronic’s auction rate securities are years to principal recovery and the illiquidity premium that is incorporated into the discount rate. Significant increases (decreases) in any of those inputs in isolation would result in a significantly lower (higher) fair value of the securities. Additionally, Medtronic uses Level 3 inputs in the measurement of contingent consideration and related liabilities for all acquisitions subsequent to April 24, 2009. See Note 3 for further information regarding contingent consideration.														Illiquidity premium	6%
										The Company reviews the fair value hierarchy classification on a quarterly basis. Changes in the ability to observe valuation inputs may result in a reclassification of levels for certain securities within the fair value hierarchy. The Company’s policy is to recognize transfers into and out of levels within the fair value hierarchy at the end of the fiscal quarter in which the actual event or change in circumstances that caused the transfer occurs. There were no transfers between Level 1, Level 2, or Level 3 during the fiscal years ended April 25, 2014 or April 26, 2013. When a determination is made to classify an asset or liability within Level 3, the determination is based upon the significance of the unobservable inputs to the overall fair value measurement.
										The following table provides a reconciliation of the beginning and ending balances of items measured at fair value on a recurring basis that used significant unobservable inputs (Level 3):
The following table represents the range of the unobservable inputs utilized in the fair value measurement of the auction rate securities classified as Level 3 as of July 25, 2014:
										(in millions)		Total Level 3			Corporate debt			Auction rate			Mortgage-			Other asset-
												Investments			securities			securities			backed securities			backed securities
	Valuation		Unobservable Input	Range						Balance as of April 26, 2013		$	127		$	10		$	103		$	14		$	—
										Total realized losses and other-than-temporary impairment losses included in earnings			(5	)		—			(5	)		—			—
	Technique			(Weighted Average)						Total unrealized gains included in other comprehensive income			4			—			3			1			—
Auction rate securities	Discounted cash flow		Years to principal recovery Illiquidity premium	2 yrs. - 12 yrs. (3 yrs.) 6%						Settlements			(20	)		(1	)		(4	)		(15	)		—
Medtronic reviews the fair value hierarchy classification on a quarterly basis. Changes in the ability to observe valuation inputs may result in a reclassification of levels for certain securities within the fair value hierarchy. Medtronic’s policy is to recognize transfers into and out of levels within the fair value hierarchy at the end of the fiscal quarter in which the actual event or change in circumstances that caused the transfer occurs. There were no transfers between Level 1, Level 2, or Level 3 during the three months ended July 25, 2014 or July 26, 2013. When a determination is made to classify an asset or liability within Level 3, the determination is based upon the significance of the unobservable inputs to the overall fair value measurement.										Balance as of April 25, 2014		$	106		$	9		$	97		$	—		$	—
The following tables provide a reconciliation of the beginning and ending balances of items measured at fair value on a recurring basis that used significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) for the three months ended July 25, 2014 and July 26, 2013:
										(in millions)		Total Level 3			Corporate debt			Auction rate			Mortgage-			Other asset-
												Investments			securities			securities			backed securities			backed securities
										Balance as of April 27, 2012		$	172		$	10		$	127		$	29		$	6
Three months ended July 25, 2014										Total unrealized gains included in other comprehensive income			11			—			11			—			—
(in millions)	Total Level 3			Corporate debt		Auction rate		Mortgage-		Settlements			(56	)		—			(35	)		(15	)		(6	)
	Investments			securities		securities		backed securities
Balance as of April 25, 2014	$	106		$	9	$	97	$	—	Balance as of April 26, 2013		$	127		$	10		$	103		$	14		$	—
Total unrealized gains included in other comprehensive income		2			—		2		—
Balance as of July 25, 2014	$	108		$	9	$	99	$	—	Assets and Liabilities That Are Measured at Fair Value on a Nonrecurring Basis
										Non-financial assets such as equity and other securities that are accounted for using the cost or equity method, goodwill and IPR&D, intangible assets, and property, plant, and equipment are measured at fair value when there is an indicator of impairment and recorded at fair value only when an impairment is recognized.
Three months ended July 26, 2013										The Company holds investments in equity and other securities that are accounted for using the cost or equity method, which are classified as other assets in the consolidated balance sheets. The aggregate carrying amount of these investments was $666 million as of April 25, 2014 and $549 million as of April 26, 2013. These cost or equity method investments are measured at fair value on a nonrecurring basis. The fair value of the Company’s cost or equity method investments is not estimated if there are no identified events or changes in circumstance that may have a significant adverse effect on the fair value of these investments. During fiscal years 2014, 2013, and 2012, the Company determined that the fair values of certain cost method investments were below their carrying values and that the carrying values of these investments were not expected to be recoverable within a reasonable period of time. As a result, the Company recognized $10 million, $21 million, and $10 million in impairment charges in fiscal years 2014, 2013, and 2012, respectively. These investments fall within Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy, due to the use of significant unobservable inputs to determine fair value, as the investments are privately-held entities without quoted market prices. To determine the fair value of these investments, the Company used all pertinent financial information available related to the entities, including financial statements and market participant valuations from recent and proposed equity offerings.
(in millions)	Total Level 3			Corporate debt		Auction rate		Mortgage-		The Company assesses the impairment of goodwill annually in the third quarter and whenever an event occurs or circumstances change that would indicate that the carrying amount may be impaired. The aggregate carrying amount of goodwill was $10.593 billion as of April 25, 2014 and $10.329 billion as of April 26, 2013, respectively.
	Investments			securities		securities		backed securities		Impairment testing for goodwill is performed at the reporting unit level. The test for impairment of goodwill requires the Company to make several estimates about fair value, most of which are based on projected future cash flows. The Company calculated the excess of each reporting unit’s fair value over its carrying amount, including goodwill, utilizing a discounted cash flow analysis. As a result of the analysis performed, the fair value of each reporting unit’s goodwill was deemed to be greater than the carrying value. The Company did not record any goodwill impairments during fiscal years 2014, 2013, or 2012.
Balance as of April 26, 2013	$	127		$	10	$	103	$	14	The recently acquired businesses of Cardiocom and Kanghui are separate reporting units and are tested for goodwill impairment independently; therefore, they are more sensitive to changes in assumptions impacting fair value. The carrying amount of goodwill was $409 million and $123 million for the Kanghui and Cardiocom reporting units, respectively, as of April 25, 2014. As of the date of the goodwill testing, the fair values of these two reporting units exceeded their respective carrying values by more than 10 percent.
Total unrealized gains included in other comprehensive income		5			—		4		1	The Company assesses the impairment of IPR&D annually in the third quarter and whenever an event occurs or circumstances change that would indicate that the carrying amount may be impaired. The aggregate carrying amount of IPR&D was $119 million as of April 25, 2014 and $363 million as of April 26, 2013, respectively. The majority of IPR&D at April 25, 2014 is related to IN.PACT family of drug-eluting balloons. Similar to the goodwill impairment test, the IPR&D impairment test requires the Company to make several estimates about fair value, most of which are based on projected future cash flows. The Company calculated the excess of IPR&D asset fair values over their carrying values utilizing a discounted future cash flow analysis. As a result of the analysis performed during fiscal year 2014, the fair value of certain IPR&D assets were deemed to be less than their carrying value, resulting in an impairment loss of $207 million, primarily related to the Ardian acquisition, that was recorded in acquisition-related items in the consolidated statements of earnings. The Ardian impairment resulted from the Company’s January 2014 announcement that the U.S. pivotal trial in renal denervation for treatment-resistant hypertension, Symplicity HTN-3, failed to meet its primary efficacy endpoint. Based on the results of the trial, the Company suspended enrollment in the renal denervation hypertension trials that were being conducted in the U.S., Japan, and India. See discussion below for additional information on impairments recorded on the Ardian long-lived asset group. As a result of the analysis performed during fiscal year 2013, the fair value of IPR&D assets were deemed to be less than the carrying value, resulting in a pre-tax impairment loss of $5 million that was recorded in acquisition-related items in the consolidated statements of earnings. The Company did not record any IPR&D impairments during fiscal year 2012. Due to the nature of IPR&D projects, the Company may experience future delays or failures to obtain regulatory approvals to conduct clinical trials, failures of such clinical trials, delays or failures to obtain required market clearances or other failures to achieve a commercially viable product, and as a result, may record impairment losses in the future.
										The Company assesses intangible assets for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an intangible asset (asset group) may not be recoverable. The aggregate carrying amount of intangible assets, excluding IPR&D, was $2.167 billion as of April 25, 2014 and $2.310 billion as of April 26, 2013. When events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an intangible asset may not be recoverable, the Company calculates the excess of an intangible asset’s carrying value over its undiscounted future cash flows. If the carrying value is not recoverable, an impairment loss is recorded based on the amount by which the carrying value exceeds the fair value. The inputs used in the fair value analysis fall within Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy due to the use of significant unobservable inputs to determine fair value. During fiscal years 2014, 2013 and 2012, the Company determined that a change in events and circumstances indicated that the carrying amount of certain intangible assets, representing less than five percent of the total aggregate carrying amount of intangible assets, may not be fully recoverable. During fiscal year 2014, the carrying amount of Ardian intangible assets was less than the undiscounted future cash flows, therefore, the Company assessed the fair value of the assets and recorded an impairment of $41 million that was included in acquisition-related items in the consolidated statements of earnings. During fiscal year 2013, the carrying amount of one intangible asset was less than the undiscounted future cash flows, therefore, the Company assessed the asset’s fair value and there were no material impairments recorded. The Company did not record any intangible asset impairments during fiscal year 2012.
Balance as of July 26, 2013	$	132		$	10	$	107	$	15	The Company assesses the impairment of property, plant, and equipment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of property, plant, and equipment assets may not be recoverable. During fiscal year 2014, the Company determined that a change in events and circumstances indicated that the carrying amount of Ardian property, plant, and equipment may not be fully recoverable and recorded an impairment of $3 million that was recorded in acquisition-related items in the consolidated statements of earnings. As part of the Company’s restructuring initiatives, the Company recorded property, plant, and equipment impairments of $16 million, $6 million, and $9 million during fiscal years 2014, 2013, and 2012, respectively, in restructuring charges, net in the consolidated statements of earnings. For further discussion of the restructuring initiatives refer to Note 3.
										Financial Instruments Not Measured at Fair Value
										The estimated fair value of the Company’s long-term debt, including the short-term portion, as of April 25, 2014 was $11.856 billion compared to a principal value of $11.375 billion, and as of April 26, 2013 was $10.820 billion compared to a principal value of $9.928 billion. Fair value was estimated using quoted market prices for the publicly registered senior notes, classified as Level 1 within the fair value hierarchy. The fair values and principal values consider the terms of the related debt and exclude the impacts of debt discounts and derivative/hedging activity.
Assets and Liabilities That Are Measured at Fair Value on a Nonrecurring Basis
Non-financial assets such as equity and other securities that are accounted for using the cost or equity method, goodwill and in-process research and development (IPR&D), intangible assets, and property, plant, and equipment are measured at fair value when there is an indicator of impairment and recorded at fair value only when an impairment is recognized.
Medtronic holds investments in equity and other securities that are accounted for using the cost or equity method, which are classified as other assets in the condensed consolidated balance sheets. The aggregate carrying amount of these investments was $618 million as of July 25, 2014 and $666 million as of April 25, 2014. These cost or equity method investments are measured at fair value on a nonrecurring basis. The fair value of Medtronic’s cost or equity method investments is not estimated if there are no identified events or changes in circumstance that may have a significant adverse effect on the fair value of these investments. Medtronic did not record any significant impairment charges related to cost method investments during the three months ended July 25, 2014 and did not record any impairment charges to cost method investments during the three months ended July 26, 2013. These investments fall within Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy, due to the use of significant unobservable inputs to determine fair value, as the investments are privately-held entities without quoted market prices. To determine the fair value of these investments, Medtronic used all pertinent financial information available related to the entities, including financial statements and market participant valuations from recent and proposed equity offerings.
Medtronic assesses the impairment of goodwill annually in the third quarter and whenever an event occurs or circumstances change that would indicate that the carrying amount may be impaired. The aggregate carrying amount of goodwill was $10.696 billion and $10.593 billion as of July 25, 2014 and April 25, 2014, respectively.
Impairment testing for goodwill is performed at the reporting unit level. The test for impairment of goodwill requires Medtronic to make several estimates about fair value, most of which are based on projected future cash flows. Medtronic calculates the excess of each reporting unit’s fair value over its carrying amount, Including goodwill, utilizing a discounted cash flow analysis. Medtronic did not record any goodwill impairments during the three months ended July 25, 2014 or July 26, 2013.
The recently acquired businesses of Cardiocom and Kanghui are separate reporting units and are tested for goodwill impairment independently; therefore, they are more sensitive to changes in assumptions impacting fair value. The carrying amount of goodwill was $410 million and $123 million for the Kanghui and Cardiocom reporting units, respectively, as of July 25, 2014. As of the date of the annual goodwill impairment test, the fair values of these two reporting units exceeded their respective carrying values by more than 10 percent.
Medtronic assesses the impairment of IPR&D annually in the third quarter and whenever an event occurs or circumstances change that would indicate that the carrying amount may be impaired. The aggregate carrying amount of IPR&D was $116 million and $119 million as of July 25, 2014 and April 25, 2014, respectively. The majority of IPR&D at July 25, 2014 is related to IN.PACT family of drug-eluting balloons. Similar to the goodwill impairment test, the IPR&D impairment test requires Medtronic to make several estimates about fair value, most of which are based on projected future cash flows.
Medtronic calculates the excess of IPR&D asset fair values over their carrying values utilizing a discounted future cash flow analysis. Medtronic did not record any IPR&D impairments during the three months ended July 25, 2014 or July 26, 2013. Due to the nature of IPR&D projects, Medtronic may experience future delays or failures to obtain regulatory approvals to conduct clinical trials, failures of such clinical trials, delays or failures to obtain required market clearances or other failures to achieve a commercially viable product, and as a result, may record impairment losses in the future.
Medtronic assesses intangible assets for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an intangible asset (asset group) may not be recoverable. The aggregate carrying amount of intangible assets, excluding IPR&D, was $2.225 billion as of July 25, 2014 and $2.167 billion as of April 25, 2014. When events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an intangible asset may not be recoverable, Medtronic calculates the excess of an intangible asset’s carrying value over its undiscounted future cash flows. If the carrying value is not recoverable, an impairment loss is recorded based on the amount by which the carrying value exceeds the fair value. The inputs used in the fair value analysis fall within Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy due to the use of significant unobservable inputs to determine fair value. Medtronic did not record any significant intangible asset impairments during the three months ended July 25, 2014 or July 26, 2013.
Medtronic assesses the impairment of property, plant, and equipment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of property, plant, and equipment assets may not be recoverable. As part of Medtronic’s restructuring initiatives, Medtronic recorded property, plant, and equipment impairments of $9 million during the three months ended July 25, 2014 in restructuring charges, net in the condensed consolidated statements of earnings. For further discussion of the restructuring initiatives refer to Note 5. Medtronic did not record any significant impairments of property, plant, and equipment during the three months ended July 26, 2013.
Financial Instruments Not Measured at Fair Value
The estimated fair value of Medtronic’s long-term debt, including the short-term portion, as of July 25, 2014 was $11.873 billion compared to a principal value of $11.375 billion, and as of April 25, 2014 was $11.856 billion compared to a principal value of $11.375 billion. Fair value was estimated using quoted market prices for the publicly registered senior notes, classified as Level 1 within the fair value hierarchy. The fair values and principal values consider the terms of the related debt and exclude the impacts of debt discounts and derivative/hedging activity.

Financing_Arrangements

Financing Arrangements	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Jul. 25, 2014								Apr. 25, 2014
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]	'								'
Financing Arrangements	'								'
	Note 8 – Financing Arrangements								8. Financing Arrangements
	Commercial Paper								Debt consisted of the following:
	Medtronic maintains a commercial paper program that allows Medtronic to have a maximum of $2.250 billion in commercial paper outstanding, with maturities up to 364 days from the date of issuance. As of July 25, 2014, outstanding commercial paper totaled $830 million. No amounts were outstanding as of April 25, 2014. During the three months ended July 25, 2014, the weighted average original maturity of the commercial paper outstanding was approximately 28 days, and the weighted average interest rate was 0.10 percent. The issuance of commercial paper reduces the amount of credit available under Medtronic’s existing line of credit.
	Line of Credit
	Medtronic has a $2.250 billion syndicated credit facility which expires on December 17, 2017 (Credit Facility). The Credit Facility provides Medtronic with the ability to increase its borrowing capacity by an additional $750 million at any time during the term of the agreement. At each anniversary date of the Credit Facility, but not more than twice prior to the maturity date, Medtronic can also request a one-year extension of the maturity date. The Credit Facility provides backup funding for the commercial paper program. As of July 25, 2014 and April 25, 2014, no amounts were outstanding on the committed line of credit.											April 25, 2014							April 26, 2013
	Interest rates are determined by a pricing matrix, based on Medtronic’s long-term debt ratings, assigned by Standard & Poor’s Ratings Services and Moody’s Investors Service. Facility fees are payable on the Credit Facility and are determined in the same manner as the interest rates. The agreement also contains customary covenants, all of which Medtronic remains in compliance with as of July 25, 2014.								(in millions, except interest rates)	Maturity by		Payable				Effective			Payable			Effective
	Other Credit Agreements									Fiscal Year						Interest						Interest
	In conjunction with the Pending Acquisition of Covidien, on June 15, 2014, Medtronic, Inc. entered into a senior unsecured bridge credit agreement (the Bridge Credit Agreement) among Medtronic, Inc., New Medtronic, the lenders from time to time party thereto and Bank of America, N.A., as administrative agent. Under the Bridge Credit Agreement, Bank of America, N.A. has committed to provide Medtronic, Inc. with unsecured financing in an aggregate principal amount of up to $2.8 billion for a 364-day period from the date that any loans are funded under the Bridge Credit Agreement. The commitments are intended to be drawn to finance, in part, the cash component of the acquisition consideration and certain transaction expenses to the extent Medtronic, Inc. does not arrange for alternative financing prior to the consummation of the Pending Acquisition. New Medtronic has guaranteed the obligations of Medtronic, Inc. under the Bridge Credit Agreement. If Medtronic, Inc. draws loans under the Bridge Credit Agreement, it intends to refinance any debt incurred thereunder.															Rate						Rate
	Medtronic, Inc. expects that it, New Medtronic and IrSub will require approximately an additional $13.2 billion in order to finance the remaining cash component of the acquisition consideration, excluding certain transaction expenses. Medtronic, Inc. expects that it, or its affiliates, will have cash equivalents in such amount available to it by the time of the consummation of the Pending Acquisition. In order to backstop the anticipated amount of cash on hand at the consummation of the Pending Acquisition, on June 15, 2014, IrSub entered into a senior unsecured cash bridge credit agreement (the Cash Bridge Credit Agreement and together with the Bridge Credit Agreement, the Credit Agreements) among IrSub, New Medtronic, the lenders from time to time party thereto and Bank of America as administrative agent. Under the Cash Bridge Credit Agreement, Bank of America, N.A. has committed to provide IrSub with unsecured financing in an aggregate principal amount of up to $13.5 billion for a 60-day period from the date that any loans are funded under the Cash Bridge Credit Agreement. New Medtronic has also guaranteed the obligations of IrSub under the Cash Bridge Credit Agreement and each of Medtronic, Inc. and Covidien has agreed to provide additional guarantees of such obligations following the consummation of the Pending Acquisition. IrSub is not currently planning to draw funds under the Cash Bridge Credit Agreement. Instead, IrSub expects to obtain intercompany loans on arm’s length terms from certain Medtronic, Inc. affiliates using proceeds of the liquidation of cash equivalents by such Medtronic, Inc. affiliates. If IrSub draws loans under the Cash Bridge Credit Agreement, such loans would be expected to be repaid from the proceeds of intercompany loans on arm’s length terms from certain Medtronic, Inc. affiliates using proceeds from the liquidation of cash equivalents by such Medtronic, Inc. affiliates.								Short-Term Borrowings:
	The funding of the loans under each Credit Agreement (the Closing Date) is conditioned on, among other things, the consummation of the Pending Acquisition and the absence of certain events of defaults described in each Credit Agreement. The commitments under each Credit Agreement automatically terminate on the earliest of (a) the funding and disbursement of the loans to the borrower on the Closing Date, (b) the occurrence of certain mandatory cancellation events or (c) March 15, 2015 (or if all but certain conditions under the Transaction Agreement have been completed, one year after June 15, 2015).								Commercial paper	2014		$	—				—		$	125			0.21	%
	For further information regarding the Pending Acquisition, see Note 3 and Note 21 to the condensed consolidated financial statements.								Capital lease obligations	2014-2015			14				3.33	%		14			3.3	%
	Bank Borrowings								Bank borrowings	2014-2015			337				0.35	%		221			0.57	%
	Bank borrowings consist primarily of borrowings at interest rates considered favorable by management and where natural hedges can be gained for foreign exchange purposes.								3.000 percent five-year 2010 senior notes	2015			1,250				3	%		—			—
									Interest rate swaps	2015			12				—			—			—
	Long-Term Debt								4.500 percent five-year 2009 senior notes	2014			—				—			550			4.5	%
	Long-term debt consisted of the following:
									Total Short-Term Borrowings			$	1,613						$	910
	(in millions, except interest rates)	Maturity by	Payable as of			Payable as of			Long-Term Debt:
		Fiscal Year	July 25, 2014			April 25, 2014			3.000 percent five-year 2010 senior notes	2015		$	—				—		$	1,250			3	%
	4.750 percent ten-year 2005 senior notes	2016	$	600		$	600		4.750 percent ten-year 2005 senior notes	2016			600				4.76	%		600			4.76	%
	2.625 percent five-year 2011 senior notes	2016		500			500		2.625 percent five-year 2011 senior notes	2016			500				2.72	%		500			2.72	%
	Floating rate three-year 2014 senior notes	2017		250			250		Floating rate three-year 2014 senior notes	2017			250				0.32	%		—			—
	0.875 percent three-year 2014 senior notes	2017		250			250		0.875 percent three-year 2014 senior notes	2017			250				0.91	%		—			—
	1.375 percent five-year 2013 senior notes	2018		1,000			1,000		1.375 percent five-year 2013 senior notes	2018			1,000				1.41	%		1,000			1.41	%
	5.600 percent ten-year 2009 senior notes	2019		400			400		5.600 percent ten-year 2009 senior notes	2019			400				5.61	%		400			5.61	%
	4.450 percent ten-year 2010 senior notes	2020		1,250			1,250		4.450 percent ten-year 2010 senior notes	2020			1,250				4.47	%		1,250			4.47	%
	4.125 percent ten-year 2011 senior notes	2021		500			500		4.125 percent ten-year 2011 senior notes	2021			500				4.19	%		500			4.19	%
	3.125 percent ten-year 2012 senior notes	2022		675			675		3.125 percent ten-year 2012 senior notes	2022			675				3.16	%		675			3.16	%
	2.750 percent ten-year 2013 senior notes	2023		1,250			1,250		2.750 percent ten-year 2013 senior notes	2023			1,250				2.78	%		1,250			2.78	%
	3.625 percent ten-year 2014 senior notes	2024		850			850		3.625 percent ten-year 2014 senior notes	2024			850				3.65	%		—			—
	6.500 percent thirty-year 2009 senior notes	2039		300			300		6.500 percent thirty-year 2009 senior notes	2039			300				6.52	%		300			6.52	%
	5.550 percent thirty-year 2010 senior notes	2040		500			500		5.550 percent thirty-year 2010 senior notes	2040			500				5.56	%		500			5.56	%
	4.500 percent thirty-year 2012 senior notes	2042		400			400		4.500 percent thirty-year 2012 senior notes	2042			400				4.51	%		400			4.51	%
	4.000 percent thirty-year 2013 senior notes	2043		750			750		4.000 percent thirty-year 2013 senior notes	2043			750				4.12	%		750			4.12	%
	4.625 percent thirty-year 2014 senior notes	2044		650			650		4.625 percent thirty-year 2014 senior notes	2044			650				4.67	%		—			—
	Interest rate swaps	2016-2022		71			56		Interest rate swaps	2015-2022			56				—			181			—
	Deferred gains from interest rate swap terminations	—		15			20		Deferred gains from interest rate swap terminations, net	—			20				—			50			—
	Capital lease obligations	2016-2025		136			139		Capital lease obligations	2015-2025			139				3.62	%		152			3.59	%
	Discount	2017-2044		(24	)		(25	)	Bank borrowings	2015			—				—			3			5	%
									Discount	2017-2044			(25	)			—			(20	)		—
	Total Long-Term Debt		$	10,323		$	10,315
									Total Long-Term Debt			$	10,315						$	9,741
	Senior Notes
	Medtronic has outstanding unsecured senior obligations including those indicated as “senior notes” in the long-term debt table above (collectively, the Senior Notes). The Senior Notes rank equally with all other unsecured and unsubordinated indebtedness of Medtronic. The indentures under which the Senior Notes were issued contain customary covenants, all of which Medtronic remains in compliance with as of July 25, 2014. Medtronic used the net proceeds from the sale of the Senior Notes primarily for working capital and general corporate uses, which includes the repayment of other indebtedness of Medtronic. For additional information regarding the terms of these agreements, refer to Note 8 to the consolidated audited financial statements beginning on page F-78 included in this joint proxy statement/prospectus.								Commercial Paper    The Company maintains a commercial paper program that allows the Company to have a maximum of $2.250 billion in commercial paper outstanding, with maturities up to 364 days from the date of issuance. As of April 26, 2013, outstanding commercial paper totaled $125 million. No amounts were outstanding as of April 25, 2014. During fiscal years 2014 and 2013, the weighted average original maturity of the commercial paper outstanding was approximately 53 and 89 days, respectively, and the weighted average interest rate was 0.09 percent and 0.18 percent, respectively. The issuance of commercial paper reduces the amount of credit available under the Company’s existing line of credit.
	As of July 25, 2014, Medtronic had interest rate swap agreements designated as fair value hedges of certain underlying fixed rate obligations including Medtronic’s $1.250 billion3.000 percent 2010 Senior Notes classified as short-term borrowings, $600 million4.750 percent 2005 Senior Notes, $500 million2.625 percent 2011 Senior Notes, $500 million4.125 percent 2011 Senior Notes, and $675 million3.125 percent 2012 Senior Notes. For additional information regarding the interest rate swap agreements, refer to Note 9.								Bank Borrowings    Outstanding bank borrowings as of April 25, 2014 were short-term advances to certain non-U.S. subsidiaries under credit agreements with various banks. These advances are guaranteed by the Company. Bank borrowings consist primarily of borrowings at interest rates considered favorable by management and where natural hedges can be gained for foreign exchange purposes.
									Line of Credit    The Company has a $2.250 billion syndicated credit facility which expires on December 17, 2017 (Credit Facility). The Credit Facility provides the Company with the ability to increase its borrowing capacity by an additional $750 million at any time during the term of the agreement. At each anniversary date of the Credit Facility, but not more than twice prior to the maturity date, the Company can also request a one-year extension of the maturity date. The Credit Facility provides backup funding for the commercial paper program. As of April 25, 2014 and April 26, 2013, no amounts were outstanding on the committed line of credit.
									Interest rates are determined by a pricing matrix, based on the Company’s long-term debt ratings, assigned by Standard & Poor’s Ratings Services and Moody’s Investors Service. Facility fees are payable on the Credit Facility and are determined in the same manner as the interest rates. The agreement also contains customary covenants, all of which the Company remains in compliance with as of April 25, 2014.
									Senior Notes    Senior Notes are unsecured, senior obligations of the Company and rank equally with all other unsecured and unsubordinated indebtedness of the Company. The indentures under which the Senior Notes were issued contain customary covenants, all of which the Company remains in compliance with as of April 25, 2014. The Company used the net proceeds from the sale of the Senior Notes primarily for working capital and general corporate uses, which includes the repayment of other indebtedness of the Company.
									In February 2014, the Company issued four tranches of Senior Notes (collectively, the 2014 Senior Notes) with an aggregate face value of $2.000 billion. The first tranche consisted of $250 million of floating rate Senior Notes due 2017. The 2017 floating rate notes bear interest at the three-month London InterBank Offered Rate (LIBOR) plus 9 basis points. The second tranche consisted of $250 million of 0.875 percent Senior Notes due 2017. The third tranche consisted of $850 million of 3.625 percent Senior Notes due 2024. The fourth tranche consisted of $650 million of 4.625 percent Senior Notes due 2044. Interest on the 2017 floating rate notes is payable quarterly and interest on the other 2014 Senior Notes are payable semi-annually. The Company used the net proceeds for working capital and general corporate purposes, including repayment of indebtedness.
									In March 2013, the Company issued three tranches of Senior Notes (collectively, the 2013 Senior Notes) with an aggregate face value of $3.000 billion. The first tranche consisted of $1.000 billion of 1.375 percent Senior Notes due 2018. The second tranche consisted of $1.250 billion of 2.750 percent Senior Notes due 2023. The third tranche consisted of $750 million of 4.000 percent Senior Notes due 2043. Interest on each series of the 2013 Senior Notes is payable semi-annually on April 1 and October 1 of each year, commencing on October 1, 2013. The Company used the net proceeds from the sale of the 2013 Senior Notes for working capital and general corporate purposes, including repayment of indebtedness.
									As of April 25, 2014 and April 26, 2013, the Company had interest rate swap agreements designated as fair value hedges of certain underlying fixed-rate obligations including the Company’s $1.250 billion 3.000 percent 2010 Senior Notes, $600 million 4.750 percent 2005 Senior Notes, $500 million 2.625 percent 2011 Senior Notes, $500 million 4.125 percent 2011 Senior Notes, and $675 million 3.125 percent 2012 Senior Notes. For additional information regarding the interest rate swap agreements, refer to Note 9.
									Senior Convertible Notes    In April 2006, the Company issued $2.200 billion of 1.500 percent Senior Convertible Notes due 2011 (2011 Senior Convertible Notes) and $2.200 billion of 1.625 percent Senior Convertible Notes due 2013 (2013 Senior Convertible Notes) (collectively, the Senior Convertible Notes). No amounts were outstanding on the Senior Convertible Notes as of April 25, 2014 and April 26, 2013.
									The Company allocated the proceeds from the issuance of the Senior Convertible Notes between a liability component (issued at a discount) and an equity component. The resulting debt discount was amortized over the period the 2013 Senior Convertible Notes were outstanding as additional non-cash interest expense.
									In separate private transactions, the Company sold 82 million shares of the Company’s common stock at an exercise price of $76.56 per share. As of April 25, 2014, the warrants for 82 million shares of the Company’s common stock had expired. The warrants were recorded as an addition to equity as of the trade date. The carrying amount of the equity component as of April 25, 2014 and April 26, 2013 was $547 million.
									The following table provides interest expense amounts related to the Senior Convertible Notes.
										Fiscal Year
									(in millions)	2013				2012
									Interest cost related to contractual interest coupon	$	35			$	36
									Interest cost related to amortization of the discount		90				87
									Contractual maturities of debt for the next five fiscal years and thereafter, excluding the debt discount, the fair value of outstanding interest rate swap agreements, and the remaining deferred gains from terminated interest rate swap agreements are as follows:
									(in millions)
									Fiscal Year
									2015	$	1,601
								2016		1,112
								2017		531
								2018		1,018
								2019		419
								Thereafter		7,184
								Total debt		11,865
								Less: Current portion of debt		1,601
								Long-term portion of debt	$	10,264

Derivatives_and_Foreign_Exchan

Derivatives and Foreign Exchange Risk Management	3 Months Ended														12 Months Ended
	Jul. 25, 2014														Apr. 25, 2014
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract]	'														'
Derivatives and Foreign Exchange Risk Management	'														'
															9. Derivatives and Foreign Exchange Risk Management
	Note 9 – Derivatives and Foreign Exchange Risk Management														The Company uses operational and economic hedges, as well as currency exchange rate derivative contracts and interest rate derivative instruments, to manage the impact of currency exchange and interest rate changes on earnings and cash flows. In order to minimize earnings and cash flow volatility resulting from currency exchange rate changes, the Company enters into derivative instruments, principally forward currency exchange rate contracts. These contracts are designed to hedge anticipated foreign currency transactions and changes in the value of specific assets and liabilities. At inception of the forward contract, the derivative is designated as either a freestanding derivative or a cash flow hedge. The primary currencies of the derivative instruments are the Euro and Japanese Yen. The Company does not enter into currency exchange rate derivative contracts for speculative purposes. The gross notional amount of all currency exchange rate derivative instruments outstanding at April 25, 2014 and April 26, 2013 was $8.051 billion and $6.812 billion, respectively. The aggregate currency exchange rate (losses) gains were $(1) million, $25 million, and $(183) million, in fiscal years 2014, 2013, and 2012, respectively. These (losses) gains represent the net impact to the consolidated statements of earnings for the exchange rate derivative instruments presented below, as well as the remeasurement (losses) gains on foreign currency denominated assets and liabilities.
															The information that follows explains the various types of derivatives and financial instruments used by the Company, how and why the Company uses such instruments, how such instruments are accounted for, and how such instruments impact the Company’s consolidated balance sheets, statements of earnings, and statements of cash flows.
	Medtronic uses operational and economic hedges, as well as currency exchange rate derivative contracts and interest rate derivative instruments to manage the impact of currency exchange and interest rate changes on earnings and cash flows. In order to minimize earnings and cash flow volatility resulting from currency exchange rate changes, Medtronic enters into derivative instruments, principally forward currency exchange rate contracts. These contracts are designed to hedge anticipated foreign currency transactions and changes in the value of specific assets and liabilities. At inception of the forward contract, the derivative is designated as either a freestanding derivative or a cash flow hedge. The primary currencies of the derivative instruments are the Euro and Japanese Yen. Medtronic does not enter into currency exchange rate derivative contracts for speculative purposes. The gross notional amount of all currency exchange rate derivative instruments outstanding at July 25, 2014 and April 25, 2014 was $7.306 billion and $8.051 billion, respectively. The aggregate currency exchange rate (losses) gains for the three months ended July 25, 2014 and July 26, 2013 were $(12) million and $3 million, respectively. These (losses) gains represent the net impact to the condensed consolidated statements of earnings for the exchange rate derivative instruments presented below, as well as the remeasurement (losses) gains on foreign currency denominated assets and liabilities.														Freestanding Derivative Forward Contracts
															Freestanding derivative forward contracts are used to offset the Company’s exposure to the change in value of specific foreign currency denominated assets and liabilities. These derivatives are not designated as hedges, and therefore, changes in the value of these forward contracts are recognized in earnings, thereby offsetting the current earnings effect of the related change in value of foreign currency denominated assets and liabilities. The cash flows from these contracts are reported as operating activities in the consolidated statements of cash flows. The gross notional amount of these contracts, not designated as hedging instruments, outstanding at April 25, 2014 and April 26, 2013 was $2.202 billion and $2.059 billion, respectively.
	The information that follows explains the various types of derivatives and financial instruments used by Medtronic, how and why Medtronic uses such instruments, how such instruments are accounted for, and how such instruments impact Medtronic’s condensed consolidated balance sheets, statements of earnings, and statements of cash flows.														The amount and location of the gains in the consolidated statements of earnings related to derivative instruments, not designated as hedging instruments, for fiscal years 2014, 2013, and 2012 are as follows:
	Freestanding Derivative Forward Contracts
															(in millions)					Fiscal Year
	Freestanding derivative forward contracts are used to offset Medtronic’s exposure to the change in value of specific foreign currency denominated assets and liabilities. These derivatives are not designated as hedges, and therefore, changes in the value of these forward contracts are recognized in earnings, thereby offsetting the current earnings effect of the related change in value of foreign currency denominated assets and liabilities. The cash flows from these contracts are reported as operating activities in the condensed consolidated statements of cash flows. The gross notional amount of these contracts, not designated as hedging instruments, outstanding at July 25, 2014 and April 25, 2014, was $1.985 billion and $2.202 billion, respectively.														Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments	Location				2014				2013			2012
															Foreign currency exchange rate contracts		Other expense, net			$	15			$	26		$	53
	The amount and location of the (losses) gains in the condensed consolidated statements of earnings related to derivative instruments, not designated as hedging instruments, for the three months ended July 25, 2014 and July 26, 2013 are as follows:														Cash Flow Hedges
															Foreign Currency Exchange Rate Risk    Forward contracts designated as cash flow hedges are designed to hedge the variability of cash flows associated with forecasted transactions denominated in a foreign currency that will take place in the future. For derivative instruments that are designated and qualify as a cash flow hedge, the effective portion of the gain or loss on the derivative is reported as a component of accumulated other comprehensive loss and reclassified into earnings in the same period or periods during which the hedged transaction affects earnings. No gains or losses relating to ineffectiveness of cash flow hedges were recognized in earnings during fiscal years 2014, 2013, or 2012. No components of the hedge contracts were excluded in the measurement of hedge ineffectiveness and no hedges were derecognized or discontinued during fiscal years 2014, 2013, or 2012. The cash flows from these contracts are reported as operating activities in the consolidated statements of cash flows. The gross notional amount of these contracts, designated as cash flow hedges, outstanding at April 25, 2014 and April 26, 2013 was $5.849 billion and $4.753 billion, respectively, and will mature within the subsequent three-year period.
															The amount of (losses) gains and location of the (losses) gains in the consolidated statements of earnings and other comprehensive income (OCI) related to foreign currency exchange rate contract derivative instruments designated as cash flow hedges for the fiscal years ended April 25, 2014, April 26, 2013, and April 27, 2012 are as follows:
	(in millions)					Three months ended
	Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments	Location				July 25, 2014			July 26, 2013
	Foreign currency exchange rate contracts		Other expense, net			$	(24	)	$	29					April 25, 2014
															(in millions)	Gross (Losses) Gains				Effective Portion of (Losses)
	Cash Flow Hedges															Recognized in OCI				Gains on Derivative Reclassified
																on Effective Portion of				from AOCI into Income
	Foreign Currency Exchange Rate Risk															Derivative
															Derivatives in Cash Flow Hedging Relationships	Amount				Location		Amount
	Forward contracts designated as cash flow hedges are designed to hedge the variability of cash flows associated with forecasted transactions denominated in a foreign currency that will take place in the future. For derivative instruments that are designated and qualify as a cash flow hedge, the effective portion of the gain or loss on the derivative is reported as a component of accumulated other comprehensive loss and reclassified into earnings in the same period or periods during which the hedged transaction affects earnings. No gains or losses relating to ineffectiveness of cash flow hedges were recognized in earnings during the three months ended July 25, 2014 or July 26, 2013. No components of the hedge contracts were excluded in the measurement of hedge ineffectiveness and no hedges were derecognized or discontinued during the three months ended July 25, 2014 or July 26, 2013. The cash flows from these contracts are reported as operating activities in the condensed consolidated statements of cash flows. The gross notional amount of these contracts, designated as cash flow hedges, outstanding at July 25, 2014 and April 25, 2014, was $5.321 billion and $5.849 billion, respectively, and will mature within the subsequent three-year period.														Foreign currency exchange	$	(152	)		Other expense, net		$	94
															rate contracts
	The amount of gains (losses) and location of the gains (losses) in the condensed consolidated statements of earnings and other comprehensive income (OCI) related to foreign currency exchange rate contract derivative instruments designated as cash flow hedges for the three months ended July 25, 2014 and July 26, 2013 are as follows:																			Cost of products sold			(43	)
															Total	$	(152	)				$	51
	Three months ended July 25, 2014
	(in millions)	Gross Gains (Losses)				Effective Portion of Gains									April 26, 2013
		Recognized in OCI				(Losses) on Derivative Reclassified									(in millions)	Gross (Losses) Gains				Effective Portion of (Losses)
		on Effective Portion of				from AOCI into Income										Recognized in OCI				Gains on Derivative Reclassified
		Derivative														on Effective Portion of				from AOCI into Income
	Derivatives in Cash Flow Hedging Relationships	Amount				Location			Amount							Derivative
	Foreign currency exchange	$	62				Other expense, net		$	2					Derivatives in Cash Flow Hedging Relationships	Amount				Location		Amount
	rate contracts														Foreign currency exchange	$	121			Other expense, net		$	103
							Cost of products sold			(3	)				rate contracts
																				Cost of products sold			(2	)
	Total	$	62						$	(1	)
															Total	$	121					$	101
	Three months ended July 26, 2013
	(in millions)	Gross Gains (Losses)				Effective Portion of Gains									April 27, 2012
		Recognized in OCI				(Losses) on Derivative Reclassified									(in millions)	Gross (Losses) Gains				Effective Portion of (Losses)
		on Effective Portion of				from AOCI into Income										Recognized in OCI				Gains on Derivative Reclassified
		Derivative														on Effective Portion of				from AOCI into Income
	Derivatives in Cash Flow Hedging Relationships	Amount				Location			Amount							Derivative
	Foreign currency exchange	$	(27	)			Other expense, net		$	32					Derivatives in Cash Flow Hedging Relationships	Amount				Location		Amount
	rate contracts														Foreign currency exchange	$	332			Other expense, net		$	(141	)
							Cost of products sold			(15	)				rate contracts
																				Cost of products sold			14
	Total	$	(27	)						17
															Total	$	332					$	(127	)
	Forecasted Debt Issuance Interest Rate Risk														Forecasted Debt Issuance Interest Rate Risk    Forward starting interest rate derivative instruments designated as cash flow hedges are designed to manage the exposure to interest rate volatility with regard to future issuances of fixed-rate debt. The effective portion of the gains or losses on the forward starting interest rate derivative instruments that are designated and qualify as cash flow hedges are reported as a component of accumulated other comprehensive loss. Beginning in the period in which the planned debt issuance occurs and the related derivative instruments are terminated, the effective portion of the gains or losses are then reclassified into interest expense, net over the term of the related debt. Any portion of the gains or losses that are determined to be ineffective are immediately recognized in interest expense, net. In February 2014, the Company terminated forward starting interest rate derivative instruments with a consolidated notional amount of $250 million in conjunction with the issuance of the 2014 Senior Notes. Upon termination, there was no material ineffectiveness on the contracts which were in a net asset position, resulting in cash receipts of $8 million. In March 2013, the Company terminated forward starting interest rate derivative instruments with a consolidated notional amount of $750 million in conjunction with the issuance of the 2013 Senior Notes. Upon termination, there was no material ineffectiveness on the contracts which were in a net liability position, resulting in cash payments of $68 million. As of April 25, 2014, the Company had $250 million of fixed pay, forward starting interest rate swaps with a weighted average fixed rate of 2.83 percent in anticipation of planned debt issuances.
															For the fiscal years ended April 25, 2014 and April 26, 2013, the Company reclassified $8 million and $1 million, respectively, of the effective portion of the net losses on forward starting interest rate derivative instruments from accumulated other comprehensive loss to interest expense, net.
	Forward starting interest rate derivative instruments designated as cash flow hedges are designed to manage the exposure to interest rate volatility with regard to future issuances of fixed-rate debt. The effective portion of the gains or losses on the forward starting interest rate derivative instrument that is designated and qualifies as a cash flow hedge is reported as a component of accumulated other comprehensive loss. Beginning in the period in which the planned debt issuance occurs and the related derivative instrument is terminated, the effective portion of the gains or losses is then reclassified into interest expense, net over the term of the related debt. Any portion of the gains or losses that is determined to be ineffective is immediately recognized in interest expense, net. As of July 25, 2014, Medtronic had $250 million of fixed pay, forward starting interest rate swaps with a weighted average fixed rate of 2.83 percent in anticipation of planned debt issuances.														The market value of outstanding forward starting interest rate swap derivative instruments at April 25, 2014 and April 26, 2013 was an unrealized gain (loss) of $7 million and $(18) million, respectively. These unrealized gains (losses) were recorded in other assets and long-term liabilities with the offset recorded in accumulated other comprehensive loss in the consolidated balance sheets.
															As of April 25, 2014 and April 26, 2013, the Company had $(44) million and $58 million, respectively, in after-tax net unrealized (losses) gains associated with cash flow hedging instruments recorded in accumulated other comprehensive loss. The Company expects that $7 million of after-tax net unrealized losses as of April 25, 2014 will be reclassified into the consolidated statements of earnings over the next 12 months.
															Fair Value Hedges
															For derivative instruments that are designated and qualify as fair value hedges, the gain or loss on the derivatives as well as the offsetting gain or loss on the hedged item attributable to the hedged risk are recognized in earnings. Interest rate derivative instruments designated as fair value hedges are designed to manage the exposure to interest rate movements and to reduce borrowing costs by converting fixed-rate debt into floating-rate debt. Under these agreements, the Company agrees to exchange, at specified intervals, the difference between fixed and floating interest amounts calculated by reference to an agreed-upon notional principal amount.
	For both the three months ended July 25, 2014 and July 26, 2013, Medtronic reclassified $2 million of the effective portion of the net losses on forward starting interest rate derivative instruments from accumulated other comprehensive loss to interest expense, net.														The gains (losses) from terminated interest rate swap agreements are recorded in long-term debt, increasing (decreasing) the outstanding balances of the debt, and amortized as a reduction (addition) of interest expense, net over the remaining life of the related debt. The cash flows from the termination of the interest rate swap agreements are reported as operating activities in the consolidated statements of cash flows.
															As of both April 25, 2014 and April 26, 2013, the Company had interest rate swaps in gross notional amounts of $2.625 billion designated as fair value hedges of underlying fixed rate obligations. As of April 25, 2014 and April 26, 2013, the Company had interest rate swap agreements designated as fair value hedges of underlying fixed rate obligations including the Company’s $1.250 billion 3.000 percent 2010 Senior Notes due 2015, the $600 million 4.750 percent 2005 Senior Notes due 2016, the $500 million 2.625 percent 2011 Senior Notes due 2016, the $500 million 4.125 percent 2011 Senior Notes due 2021, and the $675 million 3.125 percent 2012 Senior Notes due 2022.
	The unrealized gain (loss) of outstanding forward starting interest rate swap derivative instruments as of July 25, 2014 was not significant and as of April 25, 2014 was $7 million. Unrealized gains (losses) of outstanding forward starting interest rate swap derivative instruments were recorded in other assets and long-term liabilities, with the offset recorded in accumulated other comprehensive loss in the condensed consolidated balance sheets.														In March 2012, the Company entered into ten-year fixed-to-floating interest rate swap agreements with a consolidated notional amount of $675 million, which were designated as fair value hedges of fixed interest rate obligations under the Company’s 2012 Senior Notes due 2022. The Company pays variable interest equal to one-month LIBOR plus approximately 92 basis points, and receives a fixed interest rate of 3.125 percent.
	As of July 25, 2014 and April 25, 2014, Medtronic had $(7) million and $(44) million, respectively, in after-tax net unrealized (losses) associated with cash flow hedging instruments recorded in accumulated other comprehensive loss. Medtronic expects that $6 million of after-tax net unrealized gains as of July 25, 2014 will be reclassified into the condensed consolidated statements of earnings over the next 12 months.														In July 2011, the Company terminated interest rate swap agreements with a consolidated notional amount of $900 million that were designated as fair value hedges of the fixed interest rate obligation under the Company’s $2.200 billion 1.625 percent 2013 Senior Convertible Notes and $550 million 4.500 percent 2009 Senior Notes due 2014. Upon termination, the contracts were in an asset position, resulting in cash receipts of $46 million, which included $10 million of accrued interest.
															In August 2011, the Company terminated interest rate swap agreements with a consolidated notional amount of $650 million that were designated as fair value hedges of the fixed interest rate obligation under the Company’s $1.250 billion 3.000 percent 2010 Senior Notes due 2015. Upon termination, the contracts were in an asset position, resulting in cash receipts of $42 million, which included $7 million of accrued interest.
	Fair Value Hedges														As of April 25, 2014 and April 26, 2013, the market value of outstanding interest rate swap agreements was an unrealized gain of $68 million and $181 million, respectively, and the market value of the hedged items was an unrealized loss of $68 million and $181 million, respectively, which was recorded in other assets, prepaid expenses and other current assets, and other long-term liabilities with the offsets recorded in long-term debt and short-term borrowings on the consolidated balance sheets. No hedge ineffectiveness was recorded as a result of these fair value hedges for fiscal year 2014 and 2013 and less than $1 million was recorded for fiscal year 2012 as an increase in interest expense, net on the consolidated statements of earnings.
															During fiscal years 2014, 2013, and 2012, the Company did not have any ineffective fair value hedging instruments. In addition, the Company did not recognize any gains or losses during fiscal years 2014, 2013, or 2012 on firm commitments that no longer qualify as fair value hedges.
	For derivative instruments that are designated and qualify as fair value hedges, the gain or loss on the derivatives as well as the offsetting gain or loss on the hedged item attributable to the hedged risk are recognized in earnings.														Balance Sheet Presentation
														The following tables summarize the location and fair value amounts of derivative instruments reported in the consolidated balance sheets as of April 25, 2014 and April 26, 2013. The fair value amounts are presented on a gross basis and are segregated between derivatives that are designated and qualify as hedging instruments and those that are not, and are further segregated by type of contract within those two categories.
Interest rate derivative instruments designated as fair value hedges are designed to manage the exposure to interest rate movements and to reduce borrowing costs by converting fixed-rate debt into floating-rate debt. Under these agreements, Medtronic agrees to exchange, at specified intervals, the difference between fixed and floating interest amounts calculated by reference to an agreed-upon notional principal amount.
														April 25, 2014
The gains (losses) from terminated interest rate swap agreements are recorded in long-term debt, increasing (decreasing) the outstanding balances of the debt, and amortized as a reduction (addition) of interest expense, net over the remaining life of the related debt. The cash flows from the termination of the interest rate swap agreements are reported as operating activities in the condensed consolidated statements of cash flows.
As of both July 25, 2014 and April 25, 2014, Medtronic had interest rate swaps in gross notional amounts of $2.625 billion designated as fair value hedges of underlying fixed rate obligations. As of July 25, 2014, Medtronic had interest rate swap agreements designated as fair value hedges of underlying fixed rate obligations including Medtronic’s $1.250 billion 3.000 percent 2010 Senior Notes classified as short-term borrowings, the $600 million 4.750 percent 2005 Senior Notes, the $500 million 2.625 percent 2011 Senior Notes, the $500 million 4.125 percent 2011 Senior Notes, and the $675 million 3.125 percent 2012 Senior Notes. For additional information regarding the terms of Medtronic’s interest rate swap agreements, refer to Note 9 to the consolidated audited financial statements included in this joint proxy statement/prospectus.															Asset Derivatives						Liability Derivatives
														(in millions)	Balance Sheet Location		Fair				Balance Sheet Location		Fair
The market value of outstanding interest rate swap agreements was a net $80 million unrealized gain and the market value of the hedged item was a net $80 million unrealized loss at July 25, 2014, which were recorded in other assets, prepaid expenses and other current assets, and other long-term liabilities with the offsets recorded in long-term debt and short-term borrowings in the condensed consolidated balance sheet. No hedge ineffectiveness was recorded as a result of these fair value hedges for the three months ended July 25, 2014 or July 26, 2013.																	Value						Value
														Derivatives designated as hedging instruments
During the three months ended July 25, 2014 and July 26, 2013, Medtronic did not have any ineffective fair value hedging instruments. In addition, Medtronic did not recognize any gains or losses during the three months ended July 25, 2014 or July 26, 2013 on firm commitments that no longer qualify as fair value hedges.
														Interest rate contracts	Prepaid expenses and other current assets		$	13			Other accrued expenses		$	—
														Foreign currency exchange rate contracts	Prepaid expenses and other current assets			81			Other accrued expenses			84
														Interest rate contracts	Other assets			73			Other long-term liabilities			11
Balance Sheet Presentation														Foreign currency exchange rate contracts	Other assets			8			Other long-term liabilities			30
The following tables summarize the location and fair value amounts of derivative instruments reported in the condensed consolidated balance sheets as of July 25, 2014 and April 25, 2014. The fair value amounts are presented on a gross basis and are segregated between derivatives that are designated and qualify as hedging instruments and those that are not, and are further segregated by type of contract within those two categories.														Total derivatives designated as hedging instruments			$	175					$	125
July 25, 2014														Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments
														Foreign currency exchange rate contracts	Prepaid expenses and other current assets		$	—			Other accrued expenses		$	2
	Asset Derivatives						Liability Derivatives							Total derivatives not designated as hedging instruments			$	—					$	2
(in millions)	Balance Sheet Location		Fair				Balance Sheet Location	Fair
			Value					Value						Total derivatives			$	175					$	127
Derivatives designated as hedging instruments
Interest rate contracts	Prepaid expenses and other current assets		$	9			Other accrued expenses	$	—
Foreign currency exchange rate contracts	Prepaid expenses and other current assets			72			Other accrued expenses		52					April 26, 2013
Interest rate contracts	Other assets			71			Other long-term liabilities		—
Foreign currency exchange rate contracts	Other assets			23			Other long-term liabilities		15
															Asset Derivatives						Liability Derivatives
Total derivatives designated as hedging instruments			$	175				$	67					(in millions)	Balance Sheet Location		Fair				Balance Sheet Location		Fair
																	Value						Value
Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments														Derivatives designated as hedging instruments
Foreign currency exchange rate contracts	Prepaid expenses and other current assets		$	1			Other accrued expenses	$	1
														Foreign currency exchange rate contracts	Prepaid expenses and other current assets		$	150			Other accrued expenses		$	34
Total derivatives not designated as hedging instruments			$	1				$	1					Interest rate contracts	Other assets			181			Other long-term liabilities			18
														Foreign currency exchange rate contracts	Other assets			63			Other long-term liabilities			5
Total derivatives			$	176				$	68
														Total derivatives designated as hedging instruments			$	394					$	57
April 25, 2014														Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments
														Foreign currency exchange rate contracts	Prepaid expenses and other current assets		$	—			Other accrued expenses		$	1
	Asset Derivatives						Liability Derivatives							Total derivatives not designated as hedging instruments			$	—					$	1
(in millions)	Balance Sheet Location		Fair				Balance Sheet Location	Fair Value
			Value											Total derivatives			$	394					$	58
Derivatives designated as hedging instruments
Interest rate contracts	Prepaid expenses and		$	13			Other accrued expenses	$	—					The Company has elected to present the fair value of derivative assets and liabilities within the consolidated balance sheets on a gross basis even when derivative transactions are subject to master netting arrangements and may otherwise qualify for net presentation. The following table provides information as if the Company had elected to offset the asset and liability balances of derivative instruments, netted in accordance with various criteria as stipulated by the terms of the master netting arrangements with each of the counterparties. Derivatives not subject to master netting arrangements are not eligible for net presentation.
	other current assets
Foreign currency exchange rate contracts	Prepaid expenses and			81			Other accrued expenses		84
	other current assets													April 25, 2014					Gross Amount Not Offset on the
Interest rate contracts	Other assets			73			Other long-term		11										Balance Sheet
							liabilities							(in millions)	Gross Amount of				Financial				Cash Collateral			Net Amount
Foreign currency exchange rate contracts	Other assets			8			Other long-term		30						Recognized Assets				Instruments				(Received) or
							liabilities								(Liabilities)								Posted
														Derivative Assets
Total derivatives designated as hedging instruments			$	175				$	125					Foreign currency exchange rate contracts	$	89			$	(64	)		$	—		$	25
														Interest rate contracts		86				(31	)			—			55
Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments
															$	175			$	(95	)		$	—		$	80
Foreign currency exchange rate contracts	Prepaid expenses and		$	—			Other accrued expenses	$	2
	other current assets													Derivative Liabilities
														Foreign currency exchange rate contracts	$	(116	)		$	84			$	—		$	(32	)
Total derivatives not designated as hedging instruments			$	—				$	2					Interest rate contracts		(11	)			11				—			—
Total derivatives			$	175				$	127						$	(127	)		$	95			$	—		$	(32	)
														Total	$	48			$	—			$	—		$	48
Medtronic has elected to present the fair value of derivative assets and liabilities within the condensed consolidated balance sheets on a gross basis even when derivative transactions are subject to master netting arrangements and may otherwise qualify for net presentation. The following table provides information as if Medtronic had elected to offset the asset and liability balances of derivative instruments, netted in accordance with various criteria as stipulated by the terms of the master netting arrangements with each of the counterparties. Derivatives not subject to master netting arrangements are not eligible for net presentation.
														April 26, 2013					Gross Amount Not Offset on the
July 25, 2014					Gross Amount Not Offset on the														Balance Sheet
					Balance Sheet									(in millions)	Gross Amount of				Financial				Cash Collateral			Net Amount
(in millions)	Gross Amount of				Financial			Cash Collateral			Net Amount				Recognized Assets				Instruments				(Received) or
	Recognized Assets				Instruments			(Received) or							(Liabilities)								Posted
	(Liabilities)							Posted						Derivative Assets
Derivative Assets														Foreign currency exchange rate contracts	$	213			$	(42	)		$	(24	)	$	147
Foreign currency exchange rate contracts	$	96			$	(50	)	$	—		$	46		Interest rate contracts		181				(16	)			(6	)		159
Interest rate contracts		80				(11	)		—			69
															$	394			$	(58	)		$	(30	)	$	306
	$	176			$	(61	)	$	—		$	115
														Derivative Liabilities
Derivative Liabilities														Foreign currency exchange rate contracts	$	(40	)		$	40			$	—		$	—
Foreign currency exchange rate contracts	$	(68	)		$	61		$	—		$	(7	)	Interest rate contracts		(18	)			18				—			—
	$	(68	)		$	61		$	—		$	(7	)		$	(58	)		$	58			$	—		$	—
Total	$	108			$	—		$	—		$	108		Total	$	336			$	—			$	(30	)	$	306
														Concentrations of Credit Risk
														Financial instruments, which potentially subject the Company to significant concentrations of credit risk, consist principally of interest-bearing investments, forward exchange derivative contracts, and trade accounts receivable.
April 25, 2014					Gross Amount Not Offset on the									The Company maintains cash and cash equivalents, investments, and certain other financial instruments (including currency exchange rate and interest rate derivative contracts) with various major financial institutions. The Company performs periodic evaluations of the relative credit standings of these financial institutions and limits the amount of credit exposure with any one institution. In addition, the Company has collateral credit agreements with its primary derivatives counterparties. Under these agreements, either party is required to post eligible collateral when the market value of transactions covered by the agreement exceeds specific thresholds, thus limiting credit exposure for both parties. As of April 25, 2014, no collateral was posted by either the Company or its counterparties. As of April 26, 2013, the Company received cash collateral of $30 million from its counterparties. The collateral received was recorded in cash and cash equivalents, with the offset recorded as an increase in other accrued expenses on the consolidated balance sheets.
					Balance Sheet									Global concentrations of credit risk with respect to trade accounts receivable are limited due to the large number of customers and their dispersion across many geographic areas. The Company monitors the creditworthiness of its customers to which it grants credit terms in the normal course of business. However, a significant amount of trade receivables are with hospitals that are dependent upon governmental health care systems in many countries. The current economic conditions in many countries outside the U.S. (particularly the economic challenges faced by Italy, Spain, Portugal, and Greece), may continue to increase the average length of time it takes the Company to collect on its outstanding trade receivables in these countries as certain payment patterns have been impacted. As of April 25, 2014 and April 26, 2013, the Company’s aggregate accounts receivable balance for Italy, Spain, Portugal, and Greece, net of the allowance for doubtful accounts, was $628 million and $770 million, respectively. The Company continues to monitor the creditworthiness of customers located in these and other geographic areas. In the past, accounts receivable balances with certain customers in these countries have accumulated over time and were subsequently settled as large lump-sum payments. In the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2014, the Company received a $106 million payment in Spain. In the first quarter of fiscal year 2013, the Company received a $212 million payment in Spain. Although the Company does not currently foresee a significant credit risk associated with the outstanding accounts receivable, repayment is dependent upon the financial stability of the economies of these countries. For certain Greece distributors, collectability is not reasonably assured for revenue transactions and the Company defers revenue recognition until all revenue recognition criteria are met. As of April 25, 2014 and April 26, 2013, the Company’s deferred revenue balance for certain Greece distributors was $15 million and $21 million, respectively. As of April 25, 2014 and April 26, 2013, no one customer represented more than 10% of the Company’s outstanding accounts receivable.
(in millions)	Gross Amount of				Financial			Cash Collateral			Net Amount
	Recognized Assets				Instruments			(Received) or
	(Liabilities)							Posted
Derivative Assets
Foreign currency exchange rate contracts	$	89			$	(64	)	$	—		$	25
Interest rate contracts		86				(31	)		—			55
	$	175			$	(95	)	$	—		$	80
Derivative Liabilities
Foreign currency exchange rate contracts	$	(116	)		$	84		$	—		$	(32	)
Interest rate contracts		(11	)			11			—			—
	$	(127	)		$	95		$	—		$	(32	)
Total	$	48			$	—		$	—		$	48
Concentrations of Credit Risk
Financial instruments, which potentially subject Medtronic to significant concentrations of credit risk, consist principally of interest-bearing investments, forward exchange derivative contracts, and trade accounts receivable.
Medtronic maintains cash and cash equivalents, investments, and certain other financial instruments (including currency exchange rate and interest rate derivative contracts) with various major financial institutions. Medtronic performs periodic evaluations of the relative credit standings of these financial institutions and limits the amount of credit exposure with any one institution. In addition, Medtronic has collateral credit agreements with its primary derivatives counterparties. Under these agreements, either party is required to post eligible collateral when the market value of transactions covered by the agreement exceeds specific thresholds, thus limiting credit exposure for both parties. As noted in the above table, as of July 25, 2014 April 25, 2014, no collateral was received or posted from its counterparties.
Global concentrations of credit risk with respect to trade accounts receivable are limited due to the large number of customers and their dispersion across many geographic areas. Medtronic monitors the creditworthiness of its customers to which it grants credit terms in the normal course of business. However, a significant amount of trade receivables are with hospitals that are dependent upon governmental health care systems in many countries. The current economic conditions in many countries outside the U.S. (particularly the economic challenges faced by Italy, Spain, Portugal, and Greece) may continue to increase the average length of time it takes Medtronic to collect on its outstanding trade receivables in these countries as certain payment patterns have been impacted. As of July 25, 2014 and April 25, 2014, Medtronic’s aggregate accounts receivable balance for Italy, Spain, Portugal, and Greece, net of the allowance for doubtful accounts, was $619 million and $628 million, respectively. Medtronic continues to monitor the creditworthiness of customers located in these and other geographic areas. In the past, accounts receivable balances with certain customers in these countries have accumulated over time and were subsequently settled as large lump-sum payments. In the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2014, Medtronic received a $106 million payment in Spain. Although Medtronic does not currently foresee a significant credit risk associated with the outstanding accounts receivable, repayment is dependent upon the financial stability of the economies of these countries. For certain Greece distributors, collectability is not reasonably assured for revenue transactions and Medtronic defers revenue recognition until all revenue recognition criteria are met. As of July 25, 2014 and April 25, 2014, Medtronic’s deferred revenue balance for certain Greece distributors was $17 million and $15 million, respectively. As of July 25, 2014 and April 25, 2014, no one customer represented more than 10% of Medtronic’s outstanding accounts receivable.

Inventories

Inventories	3 Months Ended
	Jul. 25, 2014
Inventory Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Inventories	'
	Note 10 – Inventories
	Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or market, with cost determined on a first-in, first-out basis. Inventory balances are as follows:
	(in millions)	July 25, 2014		April 25, 2014
	Finished goods	$	1,235	$	1,196
	Work in process		283		247
	Raw materials		318		282
	Total	$	1,836	$	1,725

Goodwill_and_Other_Intangible_

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets, Net	3 Months Ended															12 Months Ended
	Jul. 25, 2014															Apr. 25, 2014
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]	'															'
Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets, Net	'															'
																7. Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets, Net
	Note 11 – Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets, Net															The changes in the carrying amount of goodwill for fiscal years 2014 and 2013 are as follows:
	The changes in the carrying amount of goodwill for the three months ended July 25, 2014 are as follows:
																(in millions)	Cardiac and			Restorative			Diabetes Group		Total
																	Vascular Group			Therapies Group
																Balance as of April 27, 2012	$	2,636		$	5,954		$	1,344	$	9,934
	(in millions)	Cardiac and			Restorative			Diabetes		Total						Goodwill as a result of acquisitions		—			414			—		414
		Vascular			Therapies			Group								Other adjustments, net		—			3			—		3
		Group			Group											Currency adjustment, net		(12	)		(10	)		—		(22	)
	Balance as of April 25, 2014	$	2,881		$	6,368		$	1,344	$	10,593
	Goodwill as a result of acquisitions		50			49			—		99					Balance as of April 26, 2013	$	2,624		$	6,361		$	1,344	$	10,329
	Other adjustments, net		(2	)		—			—		(2	)				Goodwill as a result of acquisitions		279			—			—		279
	Currency adjustment, net		5			1			—		6					Other adjustments, net		(8	)		7			—		(1	)
																Currency adjustment, net		(14	)		—			—		(14	)
	Balance as of July 25, 2014	$	2,934		$	6,418		$	1,344	$	10,696
																Balance as of April 25, 2014	$	2,881		$	6,368		$	1,344	$	10,593
	Balances of other intangible assets, net, excluding goodwill as of July 25, 2014 and April 25, 2014 are as follows:															Balances of other intangible assets, net, for fiscal years 2014 and 2013 are as follows:
																(in millions)	Purchased			Trademarks			Acquired		Other			Total
	(in millions)	Purchased			Trademarks			Acquired		Other			Total				Technology			and			IPR&D
		Technology			and			IPR&D									and			Tradenames
		and			Tradenames												Patents
		Patents														Other intangible assets as of April 25, 2014
	Other intangible assets as of July 25, 2014:															Original cost	$	3,857		$	408		$	119	$	200		$	4,584
	Original cost	$	3,992		$	408		$	116	$	190		$	4,706		Accumulated amortization		(1,878	)		(332	)		—		(88	)		(2,298	)
	Accumulated amortization		(1,946	)		(337	)		—		(82	)		(2,365	)
																Carrying value	$	1,979		$	76		$	119	$	112		$	2,286
	Carrying value	$	2,046		$	71		$	116	$	108		$	2,341
																Weighted average original life (in years)		12.7			11.8			N/A		8.7
	Other intangible assets as of April 25, 2014:
	Original cost	$	3,857		$	408		$	119	$	200		$	4,584		Other intangible assets as of April 26, 2013
	Accumulated amortization		(1,878	)		(332	)		—		(88	)		(2,298	)	Original cost	$	3,896		$	408		$	363	$	104		$	4,771
																Accumulated amortization		(1,702	)		(320	)		—		(76	)		(2,098	)
	Carrying value	$	1,979		$	76		$	119	$	112		$	2,286
																Carrying value	$	2,194		$	88		$	363	$	28		$	2,673
	Amortization expense for the three months ended July 25, 2014 and July 26, 2013 was $87 million and $86 million, respectively.															Weighted average original life (in years)		12.5			11.8			N/A		8.8
																Amortization expense for fiscal years 2014, 2013, and 2012 was $349 million, $331 million, and $335 million, respectively.
	Estimated aggregate amortization expense based on the current carrying value of amortizable intangible assets, excluding any possible future amortization associated with acquired IPR&D, which has not met technological feasibility, is as follows:															Estimated aggregate amortization expense based on the current carrying value of amortizable intangible assets, excluding any possible future amortization associated with acquired IPR&D, which has not met technological feasibility, is as follows:
																(in millions)	Amortization
	(in millions)	Estimated														Fiscal Year	Expense
		Amortization														2015	$	338
	Fiscal Year	Expense														2016		326
	Remaining 2015	$	275													2017		304
	2016		331													2018		289
	2017		309													2019		244
	2018		293													Thereafter		666
	2019		249
	2020		204														$	2,167
	Thereafter		564
	Total estimated amortization expense	$	2,225

Warranty_Obligation

Warranty Obligation	3 Months Ended
	Jul. 25, 2014
Guarantees [Abstract]	'
Warranty Obligation	'
	Note 12 – Warranty Obligation
	Medtronic offers a warranty on various products. Medtronic estimates the costs that may be incurred under its warranties and records a liability in the amount of such costs at the time the product is sold. Factors that affect Medtronic’s warranty liability include the number of units sold, historical and anticipated rates of warranty claims, and cost per claim. Medtronic periodically assesses the adequacy of its recorded warranty liabilities and adjusts the amounts as necessary. The amount of the reserve recorded is equal to the net costs to repair or otherwise satisfy the claim. Medtronic includes the warranty obligation in other accrued expenses and other long-term liabilities in the condensed consolidated balance sheets. Medtronic includes the covered costs associated with field actions, if any, in cost of products sold in Medtronic’s condensed consolidated statements of earnings.
	Changes in Medtronic’s product warranty obligations during the three months ended July 25, 2014 and July 26, 2013 consisted of the following:
		Three months ended
	(in millions)	July 25,			July 26,
		2014			2013
	Balance at the beginning of the period	$	32		$	35
	Warranty claims provision		6			11
	Settlements made		(7	)		(8	)
	Balance at the end of the period	$	31		$	38

Interest_Expense_Net

Interest Expense, Net	3 Months Ended							12 Months Ended
	Jul. 25, 2014							Apr. 25, 2014
Text Block [Abstract]	'							'
Interest Expense, Net	'							'
								10. Interest Expense, Net
	Note 13 – Interest Expense, Net							Interest income and interest expense for fiscal years 2014, 2013, and 2012 are as follows:
	Interest income and interest expense for the three months ended July 25, 2014 and July 26, 2013 are as follows:
									Fiscal Year
								(in millions)	2014			2013			2012
								Interest income	$	(271	)	$	(237	)	$	(200	)
		Three months ended						Interest expense		379			388			349
	(in millions)	July 25, 2014			July 26, 2013
	Interest income	$	(92	)	$	(50	)	Interest expense, net	$	108		$	151		$	149
	Interest expense		97			90
								Interest income includes interest earned on the Company’s cash, cash equivalents and investments, the net realized and unrealized gain or loss on trading securities, ineffectiveness on interest rate derivative instruments, and the net realized gain or loss on the sale or impairment of available-for-sale debt securities. See Note 5 for further discussion of these items.
	Interest expense, net	$	5		$	40
								Interest expense includes the expense associated with the interest on the Company’s outstanding borrowings, including short- and long-term instruments, ineffectiveness on interest rate derivative instruments, amortization of terminated interest rate swap agreements, and the amortization of debt issuance costs and debt discounts.
	Interest income includes interest earned on Medtronic’s cash, cash equivalents, and investments, the net realized and unrealized gain or loss on trading securities, ineffectiveness on interest rate derivative instruments, and the net realized gain or loss on the sale or impairment of available-for-sale debt securities.
	Interest expense includes the expense associated with the interest on Medtronic’s outstanding borrowings, including short- and long-term instruments, ineffectiveness on interest rate derivative instruments, amortization of terminated interest rate swap agreements, and the amortization of debt issuance costs and debt discounts.

Income_Taxes

Income Taxes	3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Jul. 25, 2014	Apr. 25, 2014
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]	'	'
Income Taxes	'	'
		13. Income Taxes
	Note 14 – Income Taxes	The provision for income taxes is based on earnings before income taxes reported for financial statement purposes. The components of earnings from continuing operations before income taxes, based on tax jurisdiction, are as follows:
	Medtronic’s effective tax rates for the three months ended July 25, 2014 and July 26, 2013 were 19.6 percent and 17.3 percent, respectively. The increase in Medtronic’s effective tax rate for the three months ended July 25, 2014 was primarily due to the tax impact of special charges, restructuring charges, net, acquisition-related items, and the expiration of the U.S. federal research and development tax credit on December 31, 2013, partially offset by the benefit from year-over-year changes in operational results by jurisdiction.
			Fiscal Year
	During the three months ended July 25, 2014, Medtronic’s gross unrecognized tax benefits increased from $1.172 billion to $1.234 billion. In addition, Medtronic has accrued gross interest and penalties of $157 million as of July 25, 2014. If all of Medtronic’s unrecognized tax benefits were recognized, approximately $1.138 billion would impact Medtronic’s effective tax rate. Medtronic has recorded the gross unrecognized tax benefits as a long-termliability, as it does not expect significant payments to occur or the total amount of unrecognized tax benefits to change significantly over the next 12 months.	(in millions)	2014			2013			2012
		U.S.	$	1,690		$	1,806		$	1,620
	Medtronic will continue to recognize interest and penalties related to income tax matters in the provision for income taxes in the condensed consolidated statements of earnings and record the liability in current or long-term accrued income taxes in the condensed consolidated balance sheets, as appropriate.	International		2,015			2,445			2,525
	As of July 25, 2014, there were no changes to significant unresolved matters with the U.S. Internal Revenue Service or foreign tax authorities from what Medtronic disclosed elsewhere in this joint proxy statement/prospectus.	Earnings from continuing operations before income taxes	$	3,705		$	4,251		$	4,145
		The provision for income taxes from continuing operations consists of the following:
			Fiscal Year
		(in millions)	2014			2013			2012
		Current tax expense:
		U.S.	$	532		$	509		$	664
		International		248			219			231
		Total current tax expense		780			728			895
		Deferred tax expense (benefit):
		U.S.		(175	)		46			(138	)
		International		35			10			(27	)
		Net deferred tax expense (benefit)		(140	)		56			(165	)
		Total provision for income taxes	$	640		$	784		$	730
		Deferred taxes arise because of the different treatment of transactions for financial statement accounting and income tax accounting, known as “temporary differences.” The Company records the tax effect of these temporary differences as “deferred tax assets” and “deferred tax liabilities.” Deferred tax assets generally represent items that can be used as a tax deduction or credit in a tax return in future years for which the Company has already recorded the tax benefit in the consolidated statements of earnings. The Company establishes valuation allowances for deferred tax assets when the amount of expected future taxable income is not likely to support the use of the deduction or credit. The Company has established valuation allowances for federal, state, and foreign net operating losses, credit carryforwards, capital loss carryforwards, and deferred tax assets which are capital in nature of $397 million and $313 million at April 25, 2014 and April 26, 2013, respectively. These carryover attributes expire at various points in time, from within a year to no expiration date. These valuation allowances would result in a reduction to the provision for income taxes in the consolidated statements of earnings, if they are ultimately not required. Deferred tax liabilities generally represent tax expense recognized in the consolidated financial statements for which payment has been deferred or expense has already been taken as a deduction on the Company’s tax return but has not yet been recognized as an expense in the consolidated statements of earnings. Tax assets (liabilities), shown before jurisdictional netting of deferred tax assets (liabilities), are comprised of the following:
		(in millions)	April 25, 2014			April 26, 2013
		Deferred tax assets:
		Net operating loss, capital loss, and credit carryforwards	$	487		$	423
		Other accrued liabilities		205			140
		Accrued compensation		201			98
		Pension and post-retirement benefits		194			239
		Stock-based compensation		171			223
		Other		142			200
		Inventory		118			121
		Federal and state benefit on uncertain tax positions		79			57
		Unrealized loss on available-for-sale securities and derivative financial instruments		29			—
		Gross deferred tax assets		1,626			1,501
		Valuation allowance		(397	)		(313	)
		Total deferred tax assets		1,229			1,188
		Deferred tax liabilities:
		Intangible assets		(652	)		(712	)
		Basis impairment		(225	)		(214	)
		Realized loss on derivative financial instruments		(110	)		(110	)
		Other		(24	)		(29	)
		Accumulated depreciation		(20	)		(56	)
		Unrealized gain on available-for-sale securities and derivative financial instruments		—			(87	)
		Total deferred tax liabilities		(1,031	)		(1,208	)
		Prepaid income taxes		320			321
		Income tax receivables		113			114
		Tax assets, net	$	631		$	415
		Reported as (after valuation allowance and jurisdictional netting):
		Tax assets	$	736		$	539
		Long-term tax assets		300			232
		Deferred tax liabilities		(19	)		(16	)
		Long-term deferred tax liabilities		(386	)		(340	)
		Tax assets, net	$	631		$	415
		The Company’s effective income tax rate from continuing operations varied from the U.S. federal statutory tax rate as follows:
			Fiscal Year
			2014			2013			2012
		U.S. federal statutory tax rate		35	%		35	%		35	%
		Increase (decrease) in tax rate resulting from:
		U.S. state taxes, net of federal tax benefit		0.6			0.5			0.9
		Research and development credit		(0.5	)		(1.1	)		(0.6	)
		Domestic production activities		(0.4	)		(0.3	)		(0.5	)
		International		(17.7	)		(16.7	)		(16.9	)
		Puerto Rico Excise Tax		(1.6	)		(1.3	)		(1.4	)
		Impact of restructuring charges, net, certain litigation charges, net, and acquisition-related items		5.6			2			0.3
	Reversal of excess tax accruals		(1.9	)		—			(0.8	)
	Valuation allowance release		—			(0.2	)		(0.8	)
	Other, net		(1.8	)		0.5			2.4
	Effective tax rate		17.3	%		18.4	%		17.6	%
	In fiscal year 2014, the Company recorded a $71 million net tax benefit associated with the reversal of excess tax accruals. This net tax benefit included $63 million related to the settlement of certain issues reached with the U.S. Internal Revenue Service (IRS) involving the review of the Company’s fiscal years 2009 through 2011 domestic income tax returns and the remaining amount related to the resolution of various state and foreign audit proceedings covering multiple years and issues. The $71 million net tax benefit was recorded in the provision for income taxes in the consolidated statement of earnings for fiscal year 2014.
	In fiscal year 2012, the Company entered into a sale-leaseback agreement that was recorded as a capital lease and as a result of the transaction, the Company recorded a $33 million tax benefit associated with the release of a valuation allowance associated with the usage of a capital loss carryover. The $33 million tax benefit was recorded in the provision for income taxes in the consolidated statement of earnings for fiscal year 2012.
	The Company has not provided U.S. income taxes on approximately $20.529 billion, $18.123 billion, and $16.033 billion of undistributed earnings, net, from non-U.S. subsidiaries as of April 25, 2014, April 26, 2013, and April 27, 2012, respectively. These earnings are indefinitely reinvested outside the U.S. and are available for use by the Company’s non-U.S. operations. The Company continues to be focused on goals to grow its business through increased globalization of the Company. Determination of the amount of unrecognized deferred tax liability on these undistributed earnings is not practicable.
	Currently, the Company’s operations in Puerto Rico, Switzerland, and Singapore have various tax incentive grants. The tax reductions as compared to the local statutory rate favorably impacted earnings per diluted share by $0.42 in fiscal year 2014, $0.42 in fiscal year 2013, and $0.43 in fiscal year 2012. Unless these grants are extended, they will expire between fiscal years 2015 and 2027. The Company’s historical practice has been to renew, extend, or obtain new tax incentive grants upon expiration of existing tax incentive grants. If the Company is not able to renew, extend, or obtain new tax incentive grants, the expiration of existing tax incentive grants could have a material impact on the Company’s financial results in future periods. The expiration of a tax incentive grant in fiscal year 2015 is not expected to have a material impact on the provision for income taxes in the consolidated statements of earnings in future years.
	The Company had $1.172 billion, $1.068 billion, and $917 million of gross unrecognized tax benefits as of April 25, 2014, April 26, 2013, and April 27, 2012, respectively. A reconciliation of the beginning and ending amount of unrecognized tax benefits for fiscal years 2014, 2013, and 2012 is as follows:
		Fiscal Year
	(in millions)	2014			2013			2012
	Gross unrecognized tax benefits at beginning of fiscal year	$	1,068		$	917		$	769
	Gross increases:
	Prior year tax positions		64			12			47
	Current year tax positions		166			169			171
	Gross decreases:
	Prior year tax positions		(58	)		(21	)		(53	)
	Settlements		(66	)		(6	)		(4	)
	Statute of limitation lapses		(2	)		(3	)		(13	)
	Gross unrecognized tax benefits at end of fiscal year	$	1,172		$	1,068		$	917
	If all of the Company’s unrecognized tax benefits as of April 25, 2014, April 26, 2013, and April 27, 2012 were recognized, $1.104 billion, $1.028 billion, and $858 million would impact the Company’s effective tax rate, respectively. Although the Company believes that it has adequately provided for liabilities resulting from tax assessments by taxing authorities, positions taken by these tax authorities could have a material impact on the Company’s effective tax rate in future periods. The Company has recorded the gross unrecognized tax benefits as a long-term liability, as it does not expect significant payments to occur or the total amount of unrecognized tax benefits to change significantly over the next 12 months.
	The Company recognizes interest and penalties related to income tax matters in the provision for income taxes in the consolidated statements of earnings and records the liability in the current or long-term accrued income taxes in the consolidated balance sheets, as appropriate. The Company had $141 million, $88 million, and $120 million of accrued gross interest and penalties as of April 25, 2014, April 26, 2013, and April 27, 2012, respectively. During the fiscal years ended April 25, 2014, April 26, 2013, and April 27, 2012, the Company recognized gross interest expense of approximately $36 million, $33 million, and $32 million in the provision for income taxes in the consolidated statements of earnings, respectively.
	Tax audits associated with the allocation of income, and other complex issues, may require an extended period of time to resolve and may result in income tax adjustments if changes to the Company’s allocation are required between jurisdictions with different tax rates. Tax authorities periodically review the Company’s tax returns and propose adjustments to the Company’s tax filings. The IRS has settled its audits with the Company for all years through fiscal year 2004. Tax years settled with the IRS may remain open for foreign tax audits and competent authority proceedings. Competent authority proceedings are a means to resolve intercompany pricing disagreements between countries. The major foreign jurisdictions where the Company conducts business have generally concluded all material tax matters through fiscal year 2004. In addition, substantially all material state and local tax matters have been concluded through fiscal year 2004.
	In March 2009, the IRS issued its audit report for fiscal years 2005 and 2006. The Company reached agreement with the IRS on some, but not all matters related to these fiscal years. On December 23, 2010, the IRS issued a statutory notice of deficiency with respect to the remaining issues. The Company filed a Petition with the U.S. Tax Court on March 21, 2011 objecting to the deficiency. During October and November 2012, the Company reached resolution with the IRS on various matters, including the deductibility of a settlement payment. The remaining unresolved issues relate to the allocation of income between Medtronic, Inc. and its wholly-owned subsidiary operating in Puerto Rico, which is one of the Company’s key manufacturing sites.
	In October 2011, the IRS issued its audit report for fiscal years 2007 and 2008. The Company reached agreement with the IRS on some but not all matters related to these fiscal years. The significant issues that remain unresolved relate to the allocation of income between Medtronic, Inc. and its wholly-owned subsidiary operating in Puerto Rico, and proposed adjustments associated with the tax effects of the Company’s acquisition of Kyphon Inc. (Kyphon). Associated with the Kyphon acquisition, Medtronic entered into an intercompany transaction whereby the Kyphon U.S. tangible assets were sold to another wholly-owned Medtronic subsidiary in a taxable transaction. The IRS has disagreed with the Company’s valuation of these assets and proposed that all U.S. goodwill, the value of the ongoing business, and the value of the workforce in place related to the Kyphon acquisition be included in the tangible asset sale. The Company disagrees that these items were sold, as well as with the IRS valuation of these items. The IRS continues to evaluate the overall transaction that Medtronic entered into and because a foreign subsidiary acquired part of Kyphon directly from the Kyphon shareholders, the IRS has argued that a deemed taxable event occurred. The Company disagrees with the IRS and is currently attempting to resolve these matters at the IRS Appellate level and will proceed through litigation, if necessary.
	In April 2014, the IRS issued its audit report for fiscal years 2009, 2010, and 2011. The Company reached agreement with the IRS on some but not all matters related to these fiscal years. The significant issues that remain unresolved relate to the allocation of income between Medtronic, Inc. and its wholly-owned subsidiary operating in Puerto Rico, and proposed adjustments associated with the tax effects of its acquisition structures for Ardian, CoreValve, Inc., and Ablation Frontiers, Inc. The IRS’s positions are similar to those presented in the Kyphon proposed adjustments. The Company disagrees with the IRS and will attempt to resolve these matters at the IRS Appellate level, however, it will proceed through litigation, if necessary.
	The Company’s reserves for uncertain tax positions relate to unresolved matters with the IRS and other taxing authorities. These reserves are subject to a high degree of estimation and management judgment. Resolution of these significant unresolved matters, or positions taken by the IRS or foreign tax authorities during future tax audits, could have a material impact on the Company’s financial results in future periods. The Company continues to believe that its reserves for uncertain tax positions are appropriate and that it has meritorious defenses for its tax filings and will vigorously defend them during the audit process, appellate process, and through litigation in courts, as necessary.

Earnings_Per_Share

Earnings Per Share	3 Months Ended
	Jul. 25, 2014
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]	'
Earnings Per Share	'
	Note 15 – Earnings Per Share
	Basic earnings per share is computed based on the weighted average number of common shares outstanding. Diluted earnings per share is computed based on the weighted average number of common shares outstanding, increased by the number of additional shares that would have been outstanding had the potentially dilutive common shares been issued, and reduced by the number of shares Medtronic could have repurchased from the proceeds from issuance of the potentially dilutive shares. Potentially dilutive shares of common stock include stock options and other stock-based awards granted under stock-based compensation plans and shares committed to be purchased under the employee stock purchase plan.
	The table below sets forth the computation of basic and diluted earnings per share:
		Three months ended
	(in millions, except per share data)	July 25,		July 26,
		2014		2013
	Numerator:
	Net earnings	$	871	$	953
	Denominator:
	Basic – weighted average shares outstanding		992.6		1,009.70
	Effect of dilutive securities:
	Employee stock options		7.5		6.6
	Employee restricted stock units		5		4.8
	Other		0.1		0.1
	Diluted – weighted average shares outstanding		1,005.20		1,021.20
	Basic earnings per share:	$	0.88	$	0.94
	Diluted earnings per share:	$	0.87	$	0.93
	The calculation of weighted average diluted shares outstanding excludes options for approximately 9 million shares of common stock for the three months ended July 26, 2013, respectively, because their effect would be anti-dilutive on Medtronic’s earnings per share. For the three months ended July 25, 2014, there were no options that would have an anti-dilutive effect on Medtronic’s earnings per share.

Stock_Purchase_and_Award_Plans

Stock Purchase and Award Plans	3 Months Ended							12 Months Ended
	Jul. 25, 2014							Apr. 25, 2014
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract]	'							'
Stock Purchase and Award Plans	'							'
								12. Stock Purchase and Award Plans
	Note 16 – Stock-Based Compensation							The Company measures stock-based compensation expense at the grant date based on the fair value of the award and recognizes the compensation expense over the requisite service period, which is generally the vesting period.
								In fiscal year 2014, the Company granted stock awards under the Medtronic, Inc. 2013 Stock Award and Incentive Plan (2013 Plan) and the Medtronic, Inc. 2008 Stock Award and Incentive Plan (2008 Plan). The 2013 Plan was approved by the Company’s shareholders in August 2013. The 2008 Plan was approved by the Company’s shareholders in August 2008 and amended by shareholders in August 2009. The 2013 and 2008 Plans provide for the grant of non-qualified and incentive stock options, stock appreciation rights, restricted stock, restricted stock units, performance awards, and other stock and cash-based awards. Upon adoption of the 2013 Plan, the Company no longer grants awards from any prior plan. As of April 25, 2014, there were approximately 70 million shares available for future grants under the 2013 Plan.
	Under the fair value recognition provisions of U.S. GAAP for accounting for stock-based compensation, Medtronic measures stock-based compensation expense at the grant date based on the fair value of the award and recognizes the compensation expense over the requisite service period, which is generally the vesting period.							Stock Options    Stock option awards are granted at the exercise price equal to the closing price of the Company’s common stock on the grant date. The majority of the Company’s stock option awards are non-qualified stock options with a 10-year life and a 4-year ratable vesting term. In fiscal year 2014, the Company granted stock options under the 2013 Plan and the 2008 Plan.
								Restricted Stock Awards    Restricted stock and restricted stock units (collectively referred to as restricted stock awards) are granted to officers and key employees. Restricted stock awards are subject to forfeiture if employment terminates prior to the lapse of the restrictions. The Company grants restricted stock awards that typically cliff vest after four years. Restricted stock awards are expensed over the vesting period. The Company also grants shares of performance-based restricted stock awards that typically cliff vest after three years only if the Company has also achieved certain performance objectives. Performance awards are expensed over the performance period based on the probability of achieving the performance objectives. Shares of restricted stock are considered issued and outstanding shares of the Company at the grant date and have the same dividend and voting rights as other shares of common stock. Restricted stock units are not considered issued or outstanding common stock of the Company. Dividend equivalent units are accumulated on restricted stock units during the vesting period. In fiscal year 2014, the Company granted restricted stock units under the 2013 Plan and the 2008 Plan. As of April 25, 2014, all restricted stock awards outstanding were restricted stock units.
	The following table presents the components and classification of stock-based compensation expense recognized for the three months ended July 25, 2014 and July 26, 2013:
								Employees Stock Purchase Plan    The Medtronic, Inc. 2005 Employees Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP) allows participating employees to purchase shares of the Company’s common stock at a discount through payroll deductions. Employees can contribute up to the lesser of 10 percent of their wages or the statutory limit under the U.S. Internal Revenue Code toward the purchase of the Company’s common stock at 85 percent of its market value at the end of the calendar quarter purchase period. Employees purchased 2 million shares at an average price of $47.32 per share in the fiscal year ended April 25, 2014. As of April 25, 2014, plan participants have had approximately $6 million withheld to purchase Company common stock at 85 percent of its market value on June 30, 2014, the last trading day before the end of the calendar quarter purchase period. At April 25, 2014, approximately 6 million shares of common stock were available for future purchase under the ESPP.
								Valuation Assumptions    The Company uses the Black-Scholes option pricing model (Black-Scholes model) to determine the fair value of stock options as of the grant date. The fair value of stock options under the Black-Scholes model requires management to make assumptions regarding projected employee stock option exercise behaviors, risk-free interest rates, volatility of the Company’s stock price, and expected dividends.
								The expense recognized for shares purchased under the Company’s ESPP is equal to the 15 percent discount the employee receives at the end of the calendar quarter purchase period. The expense recognized for restricted stock awards is equal to the grant date fair value, which is equal to the closing stock price on the date of grant.
		Three months ended						The following table provides the weighted average fair value of options granted to employees and the related assumptions used in the Black-Scholes model:
	(in millions)	July 25,			July 26,
		2014			2013
	Stock options	$	6		$	8				Fiscal Year
	Restricted stock awards		23			19				2014			2013			2012
	Employee stock purchase plan		5			4		Weighted average fair value of options granted		$	12		$	7.42		$	6.88
								Assumptions used:
	Total stock-based compensation expense	$	34		$	31		Expected life (years)(a)			6.4			6.5			6.4
								Risk-free interest rate(b)			1.88	%		0.94	%		1.82	%
	Cost of products sold	$	4		$	3		Volatility(c)			25.2	%		26.22	%		25.97	%
	Research and development expense		6			6		Dividend yield(d)			2.02	%		2.64	%		2.78	%
	Selling, general, and administrative expense		24			22
								(a)	Expected life: The Company analyzes historical employee stock option exercise and termination data to estimate the expected life assumption. The Company calculates the expected life assumption using the midpoint scenario, which combines historical exercise data with hypothetical exercise data, as the Company believes this data currently represents the best estimate of the expected life of a new employee option. The Company also stratifies its employee population into two groups based upon distinctive exercise behavior patterns.
	Total stock-based compensation expense	$	34		$	31		(b)	Risk-free interest rate: The rate is based on the grant date yield of a zero-coupon U.S. Treasury bond whose maturity period equals the expected term of the option.
								(c)	Volatility: Expected volatility is based on a blend of historical volatility and an implied volatility of the Company’s common stock. Implied volatility is based on market traded options of the Company’s common stock.
	Income tax benefits		(9	)		(8	)	(d)	Dividend yield: The dividend yield rate is calculated by dividing the Company’s annual dividend, based on the most recent quarterly dividend rate, by the closing stock price on the grant date.
								Stock-Based Compensation Expense    Under the fair value recognition provisions of U.S. GAAP for accounting for stock-based compensation, the Company measures stock-based compensation expense at the grant date based on the fair value of the award and recognizes the compensation expense over the requisite service period, which is generally the vesting period.
	Total stock-based compensation expense, net of tax	$	25		$	23
								The amount of stock-based compensation expense recognized during a period is based on the portion of the awards that are ultimately expected to vest. The Company estimates pre-vesting forfeitures at the time of grant by analyzing historical data and revises those estimates in subsequent periods if actual forfeitures differ from those estimates. Ultimately, the total expense recognized over the vesting period will equal the fair value of awards that actually vest.
								The following table presents the components and classification of stock-based compensation expense, for stock options, restricted stock awards, and ESPP shares recognized for fiscal years 2014, 2013, and 2012:
										Fiscal Year
								(in millions)		2014			2013			2012
								Stock options		$	34		$	44		$	60
								Restricted stock awards			98			96			86
								Employees stock purchase plan			13			12			13
								Physio-Control award acceleration			—			—			2
								Total stock-based compensation expense		$	145		$	152		$	161
								Cost of products sold		$	14		$	12		$	12
								Research and development expense			27			31			29
								Selling, general, and administrative expense			104			109			118
								Physio-Control divestiture-related costs			—			—			2
								Total stock-based compensation expense			145			152			161
								Income tax benefits			(40	)		(43	)		(45	)
								Total stock-based compensation expense, net of tax		$	105		$	109		$	116
								Stock Options    The following table summarizes all stock option activity, including activity from options assumed or issued as a result of acquisitions, during fiscal years 2014, 2013, and 2012:
										Fiscal Year
										2014						2013					2012
										Options (in			Wtd. Avg.			Options (in			Wtd. Avg.		Options (in			Wtd. Avg.
										thousands)			Exercise			thousands)			Exercise		thousands)			Exercise
													Price						Price					Price
								Beginning balance			62,020		$	44.98			74,590		$	44.80		84,652		$	45.23
								Granted			2,983			55.36			4,437			39.54		4,634			34.93
								Exercised			(27,527	)		46.26			(6,096	)		37.73		(1,218	)		34.95
								Canceled			(1,899	)		46.44			(10,911	)		45.57		(13,478	)		44.98
								Outstanding at year-end			35,577		$	44.78			62,020		$	44.98		74,590		$	44.8
								Exercisable at year-end			26,997		$	45.22			50,908		$	46.65		60,833		$	46.73
								For options outstanding and exercisable at April 25, 2014, the weighted average remaining contractual life was 4.53 years and 3.39 years, respectively. The total intrinsic value, calculated as the closing stock price at year-end less the option exercise price, of options exercised during fiscal years 2014, 2013, and 2012 was $249 million, $39 million, and $5 million, respectively. For options outstanding and exercisable at April 25, 2014, the total intrinsic value of in-the-money options was $477 million and $351 million, respectively. The Company issues new shares when stock option awards are exercised. Cash received from the exercise of stock options for the fiscal year ended April 25, 2014 was $1.273 billion. The Company’s tax benefit related to the exercise of stock options for fiscal year 2014 was $78 million. Unrecognized compensation expense related to outstanding stock options as of April 25, 2014 was $40 million and is expected to be recognized over a weighted average period of 2.5 years and will be adjusted for any future changes in estimated forfeitures.
								Restricted Stock Awards    The following table summarizes restricted stock award activity during fiscal years 2014, 2013, and 2012:
										Fiscal Year
										2014						2013					2012
										Awards (in			Wtd. Avg.			Awards (in			Wtd. Avg.		Awards (in			Wtd. Avg.
										thousands)			Grant			thousands)			Grant		thousands)			Grant
													Price						Price					Price
								Nonvested, beginning balance			10,058		$	38.97			9,980		$	37.8		9,207		$	40.42
							Granted			2,519			55.62			3,135			39.53		3,785			35.6
							Vested			(2,210	)		35.76			(2,445	)		35.58		(2,194	)		44.74
							Forfeited			(809	)		39.41			(612	)		36.34		(818	)		38.46
							Nonvested at year-end			9,558		$	44.06			10,058		$	38.97		9,980		$	37.80
							Unrecognized compensation expense related to restricted stock awards as of April 25, 2014 was $170 million and is expected to be recognized over a weighted average period of 3.4 years and will be adjusted for any future changes in estimated forfeitures.

Retirement_Benefit_Plans

Retirement Benefit Plans	3 Months Ended																			12 Months Ended
	Jul. 25, 2014																			Apr. 25, 2014
Compensation and Retirement Disclosure [Abstract]	'																			'
Retirement Benefit Plans	'																			'
																				14. Retirement Benefit Plans
	Note 17 – Retirement Benefit Plans																			The Company sponsors various retirement benefit plans, including defined benefit pension plans (pension benefits), post-retirement medical plans (post-retirement benefits), defined contribution savings plans, and termination indemnity plans, covering substantially all U.S. employees and many employees outside the U.S. The expense related to these plans was $419 million, $419 million, and $319 million in fiscal years 2014, 2013, and 2012, respectively.
																				In the U.S., the Company maintains a qualified pension plan designed to provide guaranteed minimum retirement benefits to all eligible U.S. employees. Pension coverage for non-U.S. employees is provided, to the extent deemed appropriate, through separate plans. In addition, U.S. and Puerto Rico employees are also eligible to receive specified Company paid health care and life insurance benefits through the Company’s post-retirement benefits. In addition to the benefits provided under the qualified pension plan, retirement benefits associated with wages in excess of the IRS allowable limits are provided to certain employees under a non-qualified plan.
	Medtronic sponsors various retirement benefit plans, including defined benefit pension plans (pension benefits), post-retirement medical plans (post-retirement benefits), defined contribution savings plans, and termination indemnity plans, covering substantially all U.S. employees and many employees outside the U.S. The net periodic benefit cost of the plans includes the following components for the three months ended July 25, 2014 and July 26, 2013:
																				As of April 25, 2014 and April 26, 2013, the net underfunded status of the Company’s benefit plans was $488 million and $584 million, respectively.
																				The change in benefit obligation and funded status of the Company’s employee retirement plans are as follows:
		U.S. Pension Benefits						Non-U.S. Pension						Post-Retirement Benefits
								Benefits													U.S. Pension Benefits						Non-U.S. Pension						Post-Retirement Benefits
		Three months ended						Three months ended						Three months ended													Benefits
	(in millions)	July 25,			July 26,			July 25,			July 26,			July 25,			July 26,				Fiscal Year						Fiscal Year						Fiscal Year
		2014			2013			2014			2013			2014			2013			(in millions)	2014			2013			2014			2013			2014			2013
	Service cost	$	26		$	27		$	15		$	14		$	5		$	5		Accumulated benefit obligation at end of year:	$	1,996		$	1,924		$	871		$	689		$	327		$	302
	Interest cost		26			24			8			7			4			3
	Expected return on plan assets		(39	)		(35	)		(10	)		(9	)		(6	)		(5	)	Change in projected benefit obligation:
	Amortization of net actuarial loss		16			21			3			2			—			—		Projected benefit obligation at beginning of year	$	2,154		$	1,877		$	811		$	717		$	302		$	339
																				Service cost		107			104			54			43			19			19
	Net periodic benefit cost	$	29		$	37		$	16		$	14		$	3		$	3		Interest cost		97			94			29			27			14			15
																				Employee contributions		—			—			16			15			9			9
																				Plan amendments		—			—			—			(8	)		—			—
																				Plan curtailments		—			—			(2	)		—			—			—
																				Actuarial (gain) loss		(104	)		151			88			65			1			(62	)
																				Benefits paid		(51	)		(72	)		(27	)		(25	)		(19	)		(19	)
																				Medicare Part D reimbursements		—			—			—			—			1			1
																				Foreign currency exchange rate changes		—			—			62			(23	)		—			—
																				Projected benefit obligation at end of year	$	2,203		$	2,154		$	1,031		$	811		$	327		$	302
																				Change in plan assets:
																				Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year	$	1,717		$	1,470		$	733		$	638		$	233		$	204
																				Actual return on plan assets		163			129			61			69			24			19
																				Employer contributions		88			190			48			49			20			20
																				Employee contributions		—			—			16			15			9			9
																				Benefits paid		(51	)		(72	)		(27	)		(25	)		(19	)		(19	)
																				Foreign currency exchange rate changes		—			—			58			(13	)		—			—
																				Fair value of plan assets at end of year	$	1,917		$	1,717		$	889		$	733		$	267		$	233
																				Funded status at end of year:
																				Fair value of plan assets	$	1,917		$	1,717		$	889		$	733		$	267		$	233
																				Benefit obligations		2,203			2,154			1,031			811			327			302
																				Underfunded status of the plans	$	(286	)	$	(437	)	$	(142	)	$	(78	)	$	(60	)	$	(69	)
																				Recognized liability	$	(286	)	$	(437	)	$	(142	)	$	(78	)	$	(60	)	$	(69	)
																				Amounts recognized on the consolidated balance sheets consist of:
																				Non-current assets	$	—		$	—		$	17		$	19		$	—		$	—
																				Current liabilities		(10	)		(9	)		(4	)		(4	)		(1	)		(1	)
																				Non-current liabilities		(276	)		(428	)		(155	)		(93	)		(59	)		(68	)
																				Recognized liability	$	(286	)	$	(437	)	$	(142	)	$	(78	)	$	(60	)	$	(69	)
																				Amounts recognized in accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income:
																				Prior service cost (benefit)	$	4		$	5		$	(2	)	$	(1	)	$	(3	)	$	(3	)
																				Net actuarial loss		837			1,048			254			190			39			43
																				Ending balance	$	841		$	1,053		$	252		$	189		$	36		$	40
																				In certain countries outside the U.S., fully funding pension plans is not a common practice, as funding provides no income tax benefit. Consequently, certain pension plans were partially funded as of April 25, 2014 and April 26, 2013. U.S. and non-U.S. plans with accumulated benefit obligations in excess of plan assets consist of the following:
																					Fiscal Year
																				(in millions)	2014			2013
																				Accumulated benefit obligation	$	2,426		$	2,003
																				Projected benefit obligation		2,703			2,243
																				Plan assets at fair value		2,268			1,740
																				Plans with projected benefit obligations in excess of plan assets consist of the following:
																					Fiscal Year
																				(in millions)	2014			2013
																				Projected benefit obligation	$	2,864		$	2,637
																				Plan assets at fair value		2,419			2,104
																				The net periodic benefit cost of the plans include the following components:
																					U.S. Pension Benefits									Non-U.S. Pension Benefits									Post-Retirement Benefits
																					Fiscal Year									Fiscal Year									Fiscal Year
																				(in millions)	2014			2013			2012			2014			2013			2012			2014			2013			2012
																				Service cost	$	107		$	104		$	92		$	54		$	43		$	42		$	19		$	19		$	19
																			Interest cost		97			94			87			29			27			29			14			15			17
																			Expected return on plan assets		(141	)		(128	)		(121	)		(35	)		(33	)		(36	)		(19	)		(17	)		(16	)
																			Amortization of prior service cost (credit)		1			(1	)		(1	)		1			1			1			—			—			—
																			Amortization of net actuarial loss		85			71			45			11			8			4			1			3			3
																			Net periodic benefit cost	$	149		$	140		$	102		$	60		$	46		$	40		$	15		$	20		$	23
																			The other changes in plan assets and projected benefit obligations recognized in accumulated other comprehensive loss for fiscal year 2014 are as follows:
																			(in millions)	U.S. Pension			Non-U.S.			Post-
																				Benefits			Pension			Retirement
																							Benefits			Benefits
																			Net actuarial (gain) loss	$	(126	)	$	61		$	(3	)
																			Amortization of prior service cost		(1	)		(1	)		—
																			Amortization of net actuarial gain		(85	)		(11	)		(1	)
																			Effect of exchange rates		—			14			—
																			Total recognized in accumulated other comprehensive loss	$	(212	)	$	63		$	(4	)
																			Total recognized in net periodic benefit cost and accumulated other comprehensive loss	$	(63	)	$	124		$	11
																			The estimated amounts that will be amortized from accumulated other comprehensive loss into net periodic benefit cost, before tax, in fiscal year 2015 are as follows:
																			(in millions)	U.S. Pension			Non-U.S.			Post-
																				Benefits			Pension			Retirement
																							Benefits			Benefits
																			Amortization of net actuarial loss	$	65		$	13		$	—
																				$	65		$	13		$	—
																			The actuarial assumptions are as follows:
																				U.S. Pension Benefits					Non-U.S. Pension Benefits				Post-Retirement Benefits
																				Fiscal Year					Fiscal Year				Fiscal Year
																				2014		2013	2012		2014	2013		2012	2014		2013	2012
																			Weighted average assumptions – projected benefit obligation:
																			Discount rate	4.75%		4.55%	5.05%		3.32%	3.52%		3.98%	4.75%		4.55%	5.05%
																			Rate of compensation increase	3.90%		3.90%	3.80%		2.80%	2.78%		2.85%	N/A		N/A	N/A
																			Initial health care cost trend rate pre-65	N/A		N/A	N/A		N/A	N/A		N/A	7.50%		7.75%	7.50%
																			Initial health care cost trend rate post-65	N/A		N/A	N/A		N/A	N/A		N/A	6.75%		7.00%	7.25%
																			Weighted average assumptions – net periodic benefit cost:
																			Discount rate	4.55%		5.05%	5.80%		3.52%	3.98%		4.75%	4.55%		5.05%	5.80%
																			Expected return on plan assets	8.25%		8.25%	8.25%		4.76%	5.19%		5.82%	8.25%		8.25%	8.25%
																			Rate of compensation increase	3.90%		3.80%	3.80%		2.78%	2.85%		2.97%	N/A		N/A	N/A
																			Initial health care cost trend rate pre-65	N/A		N/A	N/A		N/A	N/A		N/A	7.75%		7.50%	7.75%
																			Initial health care cost trend rate post-65	N/A		N/A	N/A		N/A	N/A		N/A	7.00%		7.25%	7.50%
																			The Company’s discount rates are determined by considering current yield curves representing high quality, long-term fixed income instruments. The resulting discount rates are consistent with the duration of plan liabilities.
																			The expected long-term rate of return on plan assets assumptions are determined using a building block approach, considering historical averages and real returns of each asset class. In certain countries, where historical returns are not meaningful, consideration is given to local market expectations of long-term returns.
																			Retirement Benefit Plan Investment Strategy    The Company has an account that holds the assets for both the U.S. pension plan and other U.S. post-retirement benefits, primarily retiree medical benefits. For investment purposes, the plans are managed in an identical way, as their objectives are similar.
																			The Company has a Qualified Plan Committee (the Plan Committee) that sets investment guidelines for U.S. pension plan and other U.S. post-retirement benefits with the assistance of an external consultant. These guidelines are established based on market conditions, risk tolerance, funding requirements, and expected benefit payments. The Plan Committee also oversees the investment allocation process, selects the investment managers, and monitors asset performance. As pension liabilities are long-term in nature, the Company employs a long-term total return approach to maximize the long-term rate of return on plan assets for a prudent level of risk. An annual analysis on the risk versus the return of the investment portfolio is conducted to justify the expected long-term rate of return assumption.
																			The investment portfolio contains a diversified portfolio of investment categories, including equities, fixed income securities, hedge funds, and private equity. Securities are also diversified in terms of domestic and international securities, short- and long-term securities, growth and value styles, large cap and small cap stocks, active and passive management, and derivative-based styles.
																			Outside the U.S., pension plan assets are typically managed by decentralized fiduciary committees. There is significant variation in policy asset allocation from country to country. Local regulations, local funding rules, and local financial and tax considerations are part of the funding and investment allocation process in each country.
																			The Plan did not hold any investments in the Company’s common stock as of April 25, 2014 or April 26, 2013.
																			The Company’s pension plan target allocations at April 25, 2014 and April 26, 2013, by asset category, are as follows:
																			U.S. Plans
																				Target Allocation
																				2014			2013
																			Asset Category
																			Equity securities		50	%		50	%
																			Debt securities		20			20
																			Other		30			30
																			Total		100	%		100	%
																			Non-U.S. Plans
																				Target Allocation
																				2014			2013
																			Asset Category
																			Equity securities		41	%		40	%
																			Debt securities		22			22
																			Other		37			38
																			Total		100	%		100	%
																			Retirement Benefit Plan Asset Fair Values    The following is a description of the valuation methodologies used for retirement benefit plan assets measured at fair value.
																			Short-term investments: Valued at the closing price reported in the active markets in which the individual security is traded.
																			U.S. government securities: Certain U.S. government securities are valued at the closing price reported in the active markets in which the individual security is traded. Other U.S. government securities are valued based on inputs other than quoted prices that are observable.
																			Corporate debt securities: Valued based on inputs other than quoted prices that are observable.
																			Common stock: Valued at the closing price reported in the active markets in which the individual security is traded.
																			Equity Mutual Funds/Commingled Trusts: Valued based on the year-end net asset values of the investment vehicles. The net asset values of the investment vehicles are based on the fair values of the underlying investments of the partnerships valued at the closing price reported in the active markets in which the individual security is traded. Equity mutual funds have a daily reported net asset value and the Company classifies these investments as Level 2. Commingled trusts do not have a daily reported net asset value and the Company classifies these investments as Level 3.
																			Fixed Income Mutual Funds: Valued based on the year-end net asset values of the investment vehicles. The net asset values of the investment vehicles are based on the fair values of the underlying investments of the partnerships valued based on inputs other than quoted prices that are observable.
																			Partnership Units: Valued based on the year-end net asset values of the underlying partnerships. The net asset values of the partnerships are based on the fair values of the underlying investments of the partnerships. Quoted market prices are used to value the underlying investments of the partnerships, where the partnerships consist of the investment pools which invest primarily in common stocks. Partnership units include partnerships, private equity investments, and real asset investments. Partnerships primarily include long/short equity and absolute return strategies. These investments can be redeemed monthly with notice periods ranging from 45 to 95 days. As of April 25, 2014, there are two absolute return strategy funds totaling $5 million that are in the process of liquidation. The Company expects to receive the majority of the proceeds over the next five years. Private equity investments consist of common stock and debt instruments of private companies. For private equity funds, the sum of the unfunded commitments as of April 25, 2014 is $64 million and the estimated liquidation period of these funds is expected to be one to 15 years. Real asset investments consist of commodities, derivatives, Real Estate Investment Trusts, and illiquid real estate holdings. These investments have redemption and liquidation periods ranging from 30 days to 10 years. If a quoted market price is not available for a partnership investment, other valuation procedures are utilized to arrive at fair value.
																			Registered Investment Companies: Valued at the quoted market prices of shares held by the plan at year-end in the active market on which the individual securities are traded.
																			Insurance Contracts: Comprised of investments in collective (group) insurance contracts, consisting of individual insurance policies. The policyholder is the employer and each member is the owner/beneficiary of their individual insurance policy. These policies are a part of the insurance company’s general portfolio and participate in the insurer’s profit-sharing policy on an excess yield basis.
																			The methods described above may produce fair values that may not be indicative of net realizable value or reflective of future fair values. Furthermore, while the Company believes its valuation methodologies are appropriate and consistent with other market participants, the use of different methodologies or assumptions to determine fair value of certain financial instruments could result in a different fair value measurement at the reporting date.
																			There were no transfers between Level 1, Level 2, or Level 3 during fiscal years 2014, 2013, or 2012.
																			The following tables provide information by level for the retirement benefit plan assets that are measured at fair value, as defined by U.S. GAAP. See Note 6 for discussion of the fair value measurement terms of Levels 1, 2, and 3.
																			U.S. Pension Benefits
																				Fair Value			Fair Value Measurements
																				as of			Using Inputs Considered as
																			(in millions)	April 25, 2014			Level 1			Level 2			Level 3
																			Short-term investments	$	157		$	157		$	—		$	—
																			U.S. government securities		158			108			50			—
																			Corporate debt securities		60			—			59			1
																			Other common stock		125			125			—			—
																			Equity mutual funds/commingled trusts		578			—			293			285
																			Fixed income mutual funds		166			—			166			—
																			Partnership units		673			—			—			673
																				$	1,917		$	390		$	568		$	959
																				Fair Value			Fair Value Measurements
																				as of			Using Inputs Considered as
																			(in millions)	April 26, 2013			Level 1			Level 2			Level 3
																			Short-term investments	$	195		$	195		$	—		$	—
																			U.S. government securities		172			145			27			—
																			Corporate debt securities		62			—			61			1
																			Other common stock		216			216			—			—
																			Equity mutual funds/commingled trusts		377			—			150			227
																			Fixed income mutual funds		72			—			72			—
																			Partnership units		623			—			—			623
																				$	1,717		$	556		$	310		$	851
																			The following tables provide a reconciliation of the beginning and ending balances of U.S. pension benefit assets measured at fair value that used significant unobservable inputs (Level 3):
																			(in millions)	Total Level 3			Corporate Debt			Commingled			Partnership Units
																				Investments			Securities			Trusts
																			Balance as of April 26, 2013	$	851		$	1		$	227		$	623
																			Total realized gains (losses) included in earnings		23			—			—			23
																			Total unrealized gains (losses) included in accumulated other comprehensive loss		86			—			58			28
																			Purchases and sales, net		(1	)		—			—			(1	)
																			Balance as of April 25, 2014	$	959		$	1		$	285		$	673
																			(in millions)	Total Level 3			Corporate Debt			Commingled			Partnership Units
																				Investments			Securities			Trusts
																			Balance as of April 27, 2012	$	752		$	1		$	193		$	558
																			Total realized gains (losses) included in earnings		8			—			—			8
																			Total unrealized gains (losses) included in accumulated other comprehensive loss		62			—			34			28
																			Purchases and sales, net		29			—			—			29
																			Balance as of April 26, 2013	$	851		$	1		$	227		$	623
																			Non-U.S. Pension Benefits
																				Fair Value			Fair Value Measurements
																				as of			Using Inputs Considered as
																			(in millions)	April 25, 2014			Level 1			Level 2			Level 3
																			Registered investment companies	$	868		$	—		$	868		$	—
																			Insurance contracts		11			—			—			11
																			Partnership units		10			—			—			10
																				$	889		$	—		$	868		$	21
																				Fair Value as of			Fair Value Measurements
																				April 26, 2013			Using Inputs Considered as
																			(in millions)				Level 1			Level 2			Level 3
																			Registered investment companies	$	715		$	—		$	715		$	—
																			Insurance contracts		10			—			—			10
																			Partnership units		8			—			—			8
																				$	733		$	—		$	715		$	18
																			The following tables provide a reconciliation of the beginning and ending balances of non-U.S. pension benefit assets measured at fair value that used significant unobservable inputs (Level 3):
																			(in millions)	Total Level 3			Insurance			Partnership
																				Investments			Contracts			Units
																			Balance as of April 26, 2013	$	18		$	10		$	8
																			Total unrealized gains (losses) included in accumulated other comprehensive loss		1			—			1
																			Purchases and sales, net		1			—			1
																			Foreign currency exchange		1			1			—
																			Balance as of April 25, 2014	$	21		$	11		$	10
																			(in millions)	Total Level 3			Insurance			Partnership
																				Investments			Contracts			Units
																			Balance as of April 27, 2012	$	16		$	9		$	7
																			Total unrealized gains (losses) included in accumulated other comprehensive loss		1			—			1
																			Purchases and sales, net		1			1			—
																			Balance as of April 26, 2013	$	18		$	10		$	8
																			Post-Retirement Benefits
																				Fair Value			Fair Value Measurements
																				as of			Using Inputs Considered as
																			(in millions)	April 25, 2014			Level 1			Level 2			Level 3
																			Short-term investments	$	22		$	22		$	—		$	—
																			U.S. government securities		23			16			7			—
																			Corporate debt securities		9			—			9			—
																			Other common stock		18			18			—			—
																			Equity mutual funds/commingled trusts		83			—			42			41
																			Fixed income mutual funds		24			—			24			—
																			Partnership units		97			—			—			97
																			Total	$	276		$	56		$	82		$	138
																			Other items to reconcile to fair value of plan assets		(9	)
																				$	267
																				Fair Value			Fair Value Measurements
																				as of			Using Inputs Considered as
																			(in millions)	April 26, 2013			Level 1			Level 2			Level 3
																			Short-term investments	$	28		$	28		$	—		$	—
																			U.S. government securities		24			20			4			—
																			Corporate debt securities		9			—			9			—
																			Other common stock		31			31			—			—
																			Equity mutual funds/commingled trusts		53			—			21			32
																			Fixed income mutual funds		10			—			10			—
																			Partnership units		88			—			—			88
																			Total	$	243		$	79		$	44		$	120
																			Other items to reconcile to fair value of plan assets		(10	)
																				$	233
																			The following tables provide a reconciliation of the beginning and ending balances of post-retirement benefit assets measured at fair value that used significant unobservable inputs (Level 3):
																			(in millions)	Total Level 3			Commingled			Partnership Units
																				Investments			Trusts
																			Balance as of April 26, 2013	$	120		$	32		$	88
																			Total realized gains (losses) included in earnings		4			—			4
																			Total unrealized gains (losses) included in accumulated other comprehensive loss		13			9			4
																			Purchases and sales, net		1			—			1
																			Balance as of April 25, 2014	$	138		$	41		$	97
																			(in millions)	Total Level 3			Commingled			Partnership Units
																				Investments			Trusts
																			Balance as of April 27, 2012	$	108		$	28		$	80
																			Total realized gains (losses) included in earnings		5			4			1
																			Total unrealized gains (losses) included in accumulated other comprehensive loss		4			—			4
																			Purchases and sales, net		3			—			3
																			Balance as of April 26, 2013	$	120		$	32		$	88
																			Retirement Benefit Plan Funding    It is the Company’s policy to fund retirement costs within the limits of allowable tax deductions. During fiscal year 2014, the Company made discretionary contributions of approximately $88 million to the U.S. pension plan and approximately $20 million to fund post-retirement benefits. Internationally, the Company contributed approximately $48 million for pension benefits during fiscal year 2014. During fiscal year 2015, the Company anticipates that its contribution for pension benefits and post-retirement benefits will be less than those contributions made during fiscal year 2014. Based on the guidelines under the U.S. Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 and the various guidelines which govern the plans outside the U.S., the majority of anticipated fiscal year 2015 contributions will be discretionary. The Company believes that, along with pension assets, the returns on invested pension assets, and Company contributions, the Company will be able to meet its pension and other post-retirement obligations in the future.
																			Retiree benefit payments, which reflect expected future service, are anticipated to be paid as follows:
																			(in millions)	U.S. Pension			Non-U.S.			Post-Retirement Benefits
																				Benefits			Pension Benefits
																			Fiscal Year	Gross			Gross			Gross			Gross Medicare
																				Payments			Payments			Payments			Part D Receipts
																			2015	$	59		$	36		$	12		$	—
																			2016		69			30			14			—
																			2017		78			31			16			—
																			2018		88			33			18			—
																			2019		98			32			20			—
																			2020 – 2024		659			187			137			—
																			Total	$	1,051		$	349		$	217		$	—
																			In March 2010, President Obama signed into law the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPACA) and the Health Care and Education Affordability Reconciliation Act (Reconciliation Act). Included among the major provisions of these laws is a change in the tax treatment of the Medicare Part D subsidy. The subsidy came into existence with the enactment of the Medicare Modernization Act (MMA) in 2003 and is available to sponsors of retiree health benefit plans with a prescription drug benefit that is actuarially equivalent to the benefit provided by the Medicare Part D program. Prior to the enactment of the PPACA and the Reconciliation Act, the Company was allowed to deduct the full cost of its retiree drug plans without reduction for subsidies received.
																			Under U.S. GAAP, the Company records a liability on its balance sheet for the expected cost of earned future retiree health benefits. When the MMA was enacted in 2003, this liability was reduced to reflect expected future subsidies from the Medicare Part D program. In addition, the Company recorded a reduction to the deferred tax liability on the balance sheet for the value of future tax deductions for these retiree health benefits. Each year, as additional benefits are earned and benefit payments are made, the Company adjusts the post-retirement benefits liability and deferred tax liability.
																			After the passage of the PPACA and the Reconciliation Act, the Company must reduce the tax deduction for retiree drug benefits paid by the amount of the Medicare Part D subsidy beginning in 2013. U.S. GAAP requires the impact of a change in tax law to be recognized immediately in the income statement in the period that includes the enactment date, regardless of the effective date of the change in tax law. As a result of this change in tax law, the Company recorded a non-cash charge of $15 million in fiscal year 2010 to increase the deferred tax liability. As a result of this legislation, the Company will be evaluating prospective changes to the active and retiree health care benefits offered by the Company.
																			The Company’s U.S. qualified defined benefit plans are funded in excess of 80 percent and, therefore, the Company expects that the plans will not be subject to the “at risk” funding requirements of the Pension Protection Act and that the law will not have a material impact on future contributions.
																			The initial health care cost trend rates for post-retirement benefit plans was 7.50 percent for pre-65 and 6.75 percent for post-65 at April 25, 2014. Based on actuarial data, the trend rates are expected to decline to 5.0 percent over a five-year period. Assumed health care cost trend rates have a significant effect on the amounts reported for the health care plans. A one-percentage-point change in assumed health care cost trend rates would have the following effects:
																			(in millions)	One-Percentage-			One-Percentage-
																				Point Increase			Point Decrease
																			Effect on post-retirement benefit cost	$	1		$	(1	)
																			Effect on post-retirement benefit obligation		11			(9	)
																			Defined Contribution Savings Plans    The Company has defined contribution savings plans that cover substantially all U.S. employees and certain non-U.S. employees. The general purpose of these plans is to provide additional financial security during retirement by providing employees with an incentive to make regular savings. Company contributions to the plans are based on employee contributions and Company performance and since fiscal year 2006, the entire match has been made in cash. Expense under these plans was $145 million, $163 million, and $106 million in fiscal years 2014, 2013, and 2012, respectively.
																			Effective May 1, 2005, the Company froze participation in the existing defined benefit pension plan in the U.S. and implemented two new plans including an additional defined benefit pension plan and a new defined contribution pension plan, respectively: the Personal Pension Account (PPA) and the Personal Investment Account (PIA). Employees in the U.S. hired on or after May 1, 2005 have the option to participate in either the PPA or the PIA. Participants in the PPA receive an annual allocation of their salary and bonus on which they will receive an annual guaranteed rate of return which is based on the ten-year Treasury bond rate. Participants in the PIA also receive an annual allocation of their salary and bonus; however, they are allowed to determine how to invest their funds among identified fund alternatives. The cost associated with the PPA is included in U.S. Pension Benefits in the tables presented earlier. The defined contribution cost associated with the PIA was approximately $50 million, $50 million, and $48 million in fiscal years 2014, 2013, and 2012, respectively.

Accumulated_Other_Comprehensiv

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)	3 Months Ended																	12 Months Ended
	Jul. 25, 2014																	Apr. 25, 2014
Equity [Abstract]	'																	'
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)	'																	'
																		16. Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss
	Note 18 – Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)																	In the first quarter of fiscal year 2014, the Company prospectively adopted guidance issued by the FASB that requires additional disclosure related to the impact of reclassification adjustments out of AOCI on net income. Changes in AOCI by component are as follows:
	Changes in AOCI by component are as follows:
																		(in millions)		Unrealized			Cumulative		Net Change in			Unrealized			Total
																				Gain (Loss) on			Translation		Retirement			Gain (Loss) on			Accumulated
																				Available-for-			Adjustments (a)		Obligations			Derivatives			Other
	(in millions)		Unrealized			Cumulative			Net Change			Unrealized			Total					Sale Securities											Comprehensive
			Gain (Loss) on			Translation			in			Gain (Loss)			Accumulated																Loss
			Available-for-			Adjustments			Retirement			on			Other			Balance as of April 26, 2013, net of tax		$	97		$	205	$	(852	)	$	58		$	(492	)
			Sale Securities			(a)			Obligations			Derivatives			Comprehensive			Other comprehensive (loss) income before reclassifications, before tax			(89	)		13		60			(120	)		(136	)
															(Loss) Income			Tax benefit (expense)			32			—		(37	)		44			39
	Balance as of April 25, 2014, net of tax		$	(6	)	$	218		$	(765	)	$	(44	)	$	(597	)
	Other comprehensive income before reclassifications, before tax			107			1			4			55			167		Other comprehensive (loss) income before reclassifications, net of tax			(57	)		13		23			(76	)		(97	)
	Tax expense			(39	)		—			—			(19	)		(58	)	Reclassifications, before tax			(72	)		—		99			(42	)		(15	)
																		Tax benefit (expense)			26			—		(35	)		16			7
	Other comprehensive income before reclassifications, net of tax			68			1			4			36			109
	Reclassifications, before tax			(21	)		—			19			3			1		Reclassifications, net of tax			(46	)(b)		—		64	(c)		(26	)(d)		(8	)
	Tax benefit (expense)			7			—			(6	)		(2	)		(1	)
																		Other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax			(103	)		13		87			(102	)		(105	)
	Reclassifications, net of tax			(14	)(b)		—			13	(c)		1	(d)		—
																		Balance as of April 25, 2014, net of tax		$	(6	)	$	218	$	(765	)	$	(44	)	$	(597	)
	Other comprehensive income, net of tax			54			1			17			37			109
	Balance as of July 25, 2014, net of tax		$	48		$	219		$	(748	)	$	(7	)	$	(488	)	(a)	Taxes are not provided on CTA as substantially all translation adjustments relate to earnings that are intended to be indefinitely reinvested outside the U.S.
																		(b)	Represents net realized gains on sales of available-for-sale securities that were reclassified from AOCI to other expense, net (see Note 5).
	(in millions)		Unrealized			Cumulative			Net Change			Unrealized			Total			(c)	Includes net amortization of prior service costs and actuarial losses included in net periodic benefit cost (see Note 14).
			Gain (Loss)			Translation			in			Gain (Loss)			Accumulated			(d)	Relates to foreign currency cash flow hedges that were reclassified from AOCI to other expense, net or cost of products sold and forward starting interest rate derivative instruments that were reclassified from AOCI to interest expense, net (see Note 9).
			on			Adjustments			Retirement			on			Other
			Available-for-			(a)			Obligations			Derivatives			Comprehensive
			Sale Securities												(Loss) Income
	Balance as of April 26, 2013, net of tax		$	97		$	205		$	(852	)	$	58		$	(492	)
	Other comprehensive (loss) income before reclassifications, before tax			(131	)		(5	)		—			18			(118	)
	Tax benefit (expense)			48			—			—			(6	)		42
	Other comprehensive (loss) income before reclassifications, net of tax			(83	)		(5	)		—			12			(76	)
	Reclassifications, before tax			(18	)		—			23			(15	)		(10	)
	Tax benefit (expense)			6			—			(9	)		5			2
	Reclassifications, net of tax			(12	)(b)		—			14	(c)		(10	)(d)		(8	)
	Other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax			(95	)		(5	)		14			2			(84	)
	Balance as of July 26, 2013, net of tax		$	2		$	200		$	(838	)	$	60		$	(576	)
	(a)	Taxes are not provided on CTA as substantially all translation adjustments relate to earnings that are intended to be indefinitely reinvested outside the U.S.
	(b)	Represents net realized gains on sales of available-for-sale securities that were reclassified from AOCI to other expense, net (see Note 6).
	(c)	Includes net amortization of prior service costs and actuarial losses included in net periodic benefit cost (see Note 17).
	(d)	Relates to foreign currency cash flow hedges that were reclassified from AOCI to other expense, net or cost of products sold and forward starting interest rate derivative instruments that were reclassified from AOCI to interest expense, net (see Note 9).

Contingencies

Contingencies	3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Jul. 25, 2014	Apr. 25, 2014
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]	'	'
Contingencies	'	'
		18. Contingencies
	Note 19 – Contingencies	The Company is involved in a number of legal actions. The outcomes of these legal actions are not within the Company’s complete control and may not be known for prolonged periods of time. In some actions, the claimants seek damages, as well as other relief (including injunctions barring the sale of products that are the subject of the lawsuit), that could require significant expenditures or result in lost revenues. In accordance with U.S. GAAP, the Company records a liability in the consolidated financial statements for loss contingencies when a loss is known or considered probable and the amount can be reasonably estimated. If the reasonable estimate of a known or probable loss is a range, and no amount within the range is a better estimate than any other, the minimum amount of the range is accrued. If a loss is reasonably possible but not known or probable, and can be reasonably estimated, the estimated loss or range of loss is disclosed. When determining the estimated loss or range of loss, significant judgment is required to estimate the amount and timing of a loss to be recorded. Estimates of probable losses resulting from litigation and governmental proceedings involving the Company are inherently difficult to predict, particularly when the matters are in early procedural stages, with incomplete scientific facts or legal discovery; involve unsubstantiated or indeterminate claims for damages; potentially involve penalties, fines or punitive damages; or could result in a change in business practice. While it is not possible to predict the outcome for most of the matters discussed, the Company believes it is possible that costs associated with them could have a material adverse impact on the Company’s consolidated earnings, financial position, or cash flows.
	Medtronic is involved in a number of legal actions. The outcomes of these legal actions are not within Medtronic’s complete control and may not be known for prolonged periods of time. In some actions, the claimants seek damages, as well as other relief (including injunctions barring the sale of products that are the subject of the lawsuit), that could require significant expenditures or result in lost revenues. In accordance with U.S. GAAP, Medtronic records a liability in the consolidated financial statements for loss contingencies when a loss is known or considered probable and the amount can be reasonably estimated. If the reasonable estimate of a known or probable loss is a range, and no amount within the range is a better estimate than any other, the minimum amount of the range is accrued. If a loss is reasonably possible but not known or probable, and can be reasonably estimated, the estimated loss or range of loss is disclosed. When determining the estimated loss or range of loss, significant judgment is required to estimate the amount and timing of a loss to be recorded. Estimates of probable losses resulting from litigation and governmental proceedings involving Medtronic are inherently difficult to predict, particularly when the matters are in early procedural stages, with incomplete scientific facts or legal discovery; involve unsubstantiated or indeterminate claims for damages; potentially involve penalties, fines or punitive damages; or could result in a change in business practice. While it is not possible to predict the outcome for most of the matters discussed, Medtronic believes it is possible that costs associated with them could have a material adverse impact on Medtronic’s consolidated earnings, financial position, or cash flows.	Litigation with Wyeth and Cordis Corporation
		On February 22, 2008, Wyeth and Cordis Corporation (Cordis) filed a lawsuit against the Company and its subsidiary, Medtronic AVE, Inc., in U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey, alleging that Medtronic’s Endeavor drug-eluting stent infringes three U.S. “Morris” patents alleged to be owned by Wyeth and exclusively licensed to Cordis. On January 19, 2012, the Court found the patent claims asserted against Medtronic to be invalid and entered an Order and Judgment in favor of Medtronic and the other defendants. Wyeth and Cordis have appealed. On June 24, 2013, the Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit affirmed the District Court’s order. The Company is indemnified for the claims made by Wyeth and Cordis. The Company has not recorded an expense related to damages in connection with these matters because any potential loss is not currently probable or reasonably estimable under U.S. GAAP. Additionally, the Company cannot reasonably estimate the range of loss, if any, that may result from this matter.
		Litigation with Edwards Lifesciences Corporation
		On March 19, 2010, the U.S. District Court for the District of Delaware added Medtronic CoreValve LLC (CoreValve) as a party to litigation pending between Edwards and CoreValve, Inc. In the litigation, Edwards asserted that CoreValve’s transcatheter aortic valve replacement product infringed three U.S. “Andersen” patents owned by Edwards. Before trial, the court granted summary judgment to Medtronic as to two of the three patents. Following a trial, on April 1, 2010 a jury found that CoreValve willfully infringed a claim on the remaining “Andersen” patent and awarded total lost profit and royalty damages, as of that time, of $74 million. On November 13, 2012, the Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit upheld the jury verdict and remanded to the District Court to reconsider issuing an injunction. Medtronic petitioned for certiorari to the U.S. Supreme Court, but the petition was denied on October 7, 2013. Medtronic recorded an expense of $245 million related to probable and reasonably estimated damages for this matter in the second quarter of fiscal year 2013, of which $84 million was paid on February 28, 2013. On March 12, 2010, Edwards served a second lawsuit in the Delaware court upon CoreValve, Medtronic Vascular, and Medtronic, asserting that Medtronic’s transcatheter aortic valve replacement product from CoreValve infringed three U.S. “Andersen” patents owned by Edwards, including two of the patents that were the subject of the first lawsuit.
	Sprint Fidelis Product Liability Matters	On January 15, 2014, the Delaware court found that the CoreValve transcatheter aortic valve replacement product willfully infringed on a “Cribier” patent, with a jury award in the amount of $394 million.
		Edwards has also brought actions in Europe alleging patent infringement. Edwards previously asserted that the CoreValve product infringed an “Andersen” patent in Germany and the United Kingdom, which is a counterpart to the U.S. “Andersen” patents. Courts in both countries found that the CoreValve product does not infringe the European “Andersen” patent and dismissed both cases. On August 30, 2012, Edwards commenced a proceeding in Mannheim, Germany, alleging that Medtronic’s CoreValve transcatheter valve infringes three European patents and seeking injunctive and other relief. On June 14, 2013, the Mannheim court dismissed Edwards’ case on the merits that Medtronic’s CoreValve transcatheter valve infringes the “Cribier” patent. On July 12, 2013, the Mannheim court found that Medtronic’s CoreValve transcatheter valve infringes the “Spenser” patent and issued an injunction against Medtronic’s sale or use of the CoreValve product in Germany. Medtronic appealed the court’s finding of infringement. On August 26, 2013, Edwards posted a 50 million Euro bond, as mandated by the court, to enforce the injunction. On November 14, 2013, the appeals court in Karlsruhe stayed the injunction based on the likelihood that the “Spenser” patent would be found to be invalid. On March 5, 2014, the European Patent Office (EPO) determined the “Spenser” patent was invalid. The Mannheim court stayed a third proceeding that had been scheduled for trial on December 20, 2013, involving a related “Cribier” patent, until EPO proceedings conclude regarding the validity of the first “Cribier” patent which was revoked by the Opposition Division of the EPO on December 17, 2013.
	In 2007, a putative class action was filed in the Ontario Superior Court of Justice in Canada seeking damages for personal injuries allegedly related to Medtronic’s Sprint Fidelis family of defibrillation leads. On October 20, 2009, the court certified a class proceeding but denied class certification on plaintiffs’ claim for punitive damages. Pretrial proceedings are underway. Medtronic has not recorded an expense related to damages in connection with this matter because any potential loss is not currently probable or reasonably estimable under U.S. GAAP. Additionally, Medtronic cannot reasonably estimate the range of loss, if any, that may result from this matter.
		On May 19, 2014, Medtronic and Edwards agreed to settle all pending litigation, and the parties will dismiss with prejudice all claims in the pending matters. The settlement agreement provided for a one-time payment of $750 million from Medtronic to Edwards. The agreement also requires ongoing royalties for Medtronic sales of its CoreValve transcatheter valve with minimum annual payments of $40 million through April 9, 2022. As a result, Medtronic recognized a $589 million expense (net of existing accrual) in fiscal year 2014. The $750 million was paid on May 23, 2014. The parties also agreed to cross license the relevant patents in the litigations, and covenanted not to sue each other for eight years in the field of transcatheter valves and related accessories.
	INFUSE Product Liability Litigation	Sprint Fidelis Product Liability Matters
		In 2007, a putative class action was filed in the Ontario Superior Court of Justice in Canada seeking damages for personal injuries allegedly related to the Company’s Sprint Fidelis family of defibrillation leads. On October 20, 2009, the court certified a class proceeding but denied class certification on plaintiffs’ claim for punitive damages. Pretrial proceedings are underway. The Company has not recorded an expense related to damages in connection with this matter because any potential loss is not currently probable or reasonably estimable under U.S. GAAP. Additionally, the Company cannot reasonably estimate the range of loss, if any, that may result from this matter.
	As of August 26, 2014, plaintiffs had filed approximately 750 lawsuits against Medtronic in the U.S. state and federal courts, reflecting approximately 1,200 individual personal injury claims from the INFUSE bone graft product. Certain law firms have advised Medtronic that they may bring a large number of similar claims against Medtronic in the future. Medtronic estimates those law firms represent approximately 3,600 additional unfiled claimants. Medtronic recorded an expense of $140 million in fiscal year 2014, related to probable and reasonably estimated damages in connection with these matters.	INFUSE Product Liability Litigation
		As of the end of fiscal year 2014, plaintiffs filed approximately 750 lawsuits against the Company in the U.S. state and federal courts, reflecting approximately 1,200 individual personal injury claims from the INFUSE bone graft product. Certain law firms have advised the Company that they may bring a large number of similar claims against the Company in the future. The Company estimates those law firms represent approximately 3,600 additional unfiled claimants. The Company recorded an expense of $140 million in fiscal year 2014, related to probable and reasonably estimated damages in connection with these matters.
	Other INFUSE Litigation	Other INFUSE Litigation
		On June 5, 2014, Humana, Inc. filed a lawsuit for unspecified monetary damages in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Tennessee, alleging that Medtronic violated federal racketeering (RICO) law and various state laws, by conspiring with physicians to promote unapproved uses of INFUSE. The Company has not recorded an expense related to damages in connection with this matter because any potential loss is not currently probable or reasonably estimable under U.S. GAAP. Additionally, the Company cannot reasonably estimate the range of loss, if any, that may result from this matter.
	On June 5, 2014, Humana, Inc. filed a lawsuit for unspecified monetary damages in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Tennessee, alleging that Medtronic violated federal racketeering (RICO) law and various state laws, by conspiring with physicians to promote unapproved uses of INFUSE. Medtronic has not recorded an expense related to damages in connection with this matter because any potential loss is not currently probable or reasonably estimable under U.S. GAAP. Additionally, Medtronic cannot reasonably estimate the range of loss, if any, that may result from this matter.	Shareholder Related Matters
		On March 12, 2012, Charlotte Kokocinski filed a shareholder derivative action against both the Company and certain of its current and former officers and members of the Board of Directors in the U.S. District Court for the District of Minnesota, setting forth certain allegations, including a claim that defendants violated various purported duties in connection with the INFUSE bone graft product and otherwise. On March 25, 2013, the Court dismissed the case without prejudice. In May 2012, Daniel Himmel and the Saratoga Advantage Trust commenced two other separate shareholder derivative actions in Hennepin County, Minnesota, District Court against the same defendants, making allegations similar to those in the Kokocinski case.
	Shareholder Related Matters	West Virginia Pipe Trades and Phil Pace, on June 27 and July 3, 2013, respectively, filed putative class action complaints against Medtronic and certain of its officers in the U.S. District Court for the District of Minnesota, alleging that the defendants made false and misleading public statements regarding the INFUSE Bone Graft product during the period of December 8, 2010 through August 3, 2011. The Company has not recorded an expense related to damages in connection with these matters because any potential loss is not currently probable or reasonably estimable under U.S. GAAP. Additionally, the Company cannot reasonably estimate the range of loss, if any, that may result from these matters.
		Mirowski
	On March 12, 2012, Charlotte Kokocinski filed a shareholder derivative action against both Medtronic and certain of its current and former officers and members of the Board of Directors in the U.S. District Court for the District of Minnesota, setting forth certain allegations, including a claim that defendants violated various purported duties in connection with the INFUSE bone graft product and otherwise. On March 25, 2013, the Court dismissed the case without prejudice. In May 2012, Daniel Himmel and the Saratoga Advantage Trust commenced two other separate shareholder derivative actions in Hennepin County, Minnesota, District Court against the same defendants, making allegations similar to those in the Kokocinski case. On July 1, 2014, Road Carriers Local 707 Welfare & Pension Funds filed a shareholder derivative action in Hennepin County, Minnesota, District Court against the same defendants making allegations similar to those in the Kokocinski, Himmel, and Saratoga Advantage Trust cases. On July 24, 2014, Anne Shirley Cutler filed a shareholder derivative action in Hennepin County, Minnesota, District Court against certain of the same defendants making allegations similar to those in the Kokocinski, Himmel, and Saratoga Advantage Trust cases as well as allegations that defendants violated purported duties in connection with the Synchromed pain pump system.	Medtronic is a licensee to the RE 38,119 patent (‘119 Patent) and RE 38,897 patent (‘897 Patent) owned by Mirowski Family Ventures, LLC (Mirowski) relating to the treatment of hemodynamic dysfunction. Medtronic and Mirowski dispute the application of the ‘119 and ‘897 Patents to certain Medtronic cardiac resynchronization products. On December 17, 2007, Medtronic filed an action in U.S. District Court for the District of Delaware seeking a declaration that none of its products infringe any valid claims of either the ‘119 or ‘897 Patents. If certain conditions are fulfilled, the ‘119 and/or ‘897 Patents are determined to be valid, and the Medtronic products are found to infringe the ‘119 and/or ‘897 Patents, Medtronic will be obligated to pay royalties to Mirowski based upon sales of certain cardiac resynchronization therapy-defibrillator (CRT-D) products. On March 30, 2011, the trial court entered a judgment of non-infringement in Medtronic’s favor. On September 16, 2012, the Federal Circuit reversed and remanded the trial court’s decision for a new trial, based on its holding that the trial court did not properly allocate the burden of proof in the initial proceedings. Medtronic’s petition for certiorari to the U.S. Supreme Court was granted, and on January 22, 2014, the Supreme Court reversed the Federal Circuit’s decision regarding the burden of proof. On March 11, 2014, the Federal Circuit affirmed the trial court’s judgment of non-infringement. The Company has not recorded an expense pursuant to U.S. GAAP requirements in connection with this matter because any loss is not probable or reasonably estimable. Additionally, the Company cannot reasonably estimate the range of loss, if any, that may result from this matter.
		Other Matters
	West Virginia Pipe Trades and Phil Pace, on June 27 and July 3, 2013, respectively, filed putative class action complaints against Medtronic and certain of its officers in the U.S. District Court for the District of Minnesota, alleging that the defendants made false and misleading public statements regarding the INFUSE Bone Graft product during the period of December 8, 2010 through August 3, 2011. Medtronic has not recorded an expense related to damages in connection with these matters because any potential loss is not currently probable or reasonably estimable under U.S. GAAP. Additionally, Medtronic cannot reasonably estimate the range of loss, if any, that may result from these matters.	The Company has received subpoenas or document requests from certain government bodies seeking information regarding sales, marketing, clinical, and other information relating to the INFUSE bone graft product, including civil investigative demands from the Attorneys General in Massachusetts, California, Oregon, Illinois, and Washington. The Company is fully cooperating with these requests.
		On September 16, 2009, the Company received a subpoena from the Office of Inspector General for the Department of Health and Human Services in the Eastern District of California requesting production of documents relating to the Company’s cardiac rhythm medical devices, including revenue, sales, marketing, and promotional documents, documents relating to reimbursement communications to customers pertaining to the devices, documents relating to scientific studies and registries pertaining to the devices, and documents relating to payments or items of value provided to customers. The Company recorded an expense of $10 million in fiscal year 2014, related to probable and reasonably estimated damages. In May 2014, the Company settled this matter for $10 million and certain legal fees.
	On July 2, 2014, Lewis Merenstein filed a putative shareholder class action in Hennepin County, Minnesota, District Court seeking to enjoin the potential acquisition of Covidien. The lawsuit names Medtronic, Covidien, and each member of the Medtronic board as defendants, and alleges that the directors breached their fiduciary duties to shareholders with regard to the potential acquisition. On August 21, 2014, Kenneth Steiner filed a putative shareholder class action in Hennepin County, Minnesota, District Court, also seeking an injunction to prevent the potential Covidien acquisition. On July 10, 2014, Richard Taxman filed a putative shareholder class action in the U.S. District Court for the District of Massachusetts also seeking to enjoin the potential acquisition, and naming Medtronic, Covidien, and the members of the Covidien board of directors as defendants. On August 26, 2014, William Cobb filed a putative shareholder class action in Suffolk County Superior Court, Massachusetts, asserting claims similar to those asserted in Taxman. Medtronic has not recorded any expense related to damages in connection with these matters because any potential loss is not currently probable or reasonably estimable under U.S. GAAP. Additionally, Medtronic cannot reasonably estimate the range of loss, if any, that may result from these matters.	On October 14, 2010, the Company received a subpoena issued by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of New York pursuant to the Health Insurance Portability & Accountability Act of 1996, relating to the Company’s sales, marketing, and reimbursement support practices regarding certain neurostimulation devices. The Company is fully cooperating with this inquiry.
		On November 9, 2010, the French Competition Authority commenced an investigation of the Company, along with a number of other medical device companies, and the companies’ trade association, Syndicat National de l’Industrie des Technologies Medicales (SNITEM), to determine whether such companies or SNITEM engaged in any anticompetitive practices in responding to tenders to purchase certain medical devices. The Company is fully cooperating with the investigation.
	Mirowski
		On December 3, 2013, the Company received a subpoena for records from the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Minnesota related to the same topic addressed in its letter of May 6, 2013, requesting information relating to the Company’s compliance with the Trade Agreements Act. The Company is fully cooperating with this inquiry.
	Medtronic is a licensee to the RE 38,119 patent (‘119 Patent) and RE 38,897 patent (‘897 Patent) owned by Mirowski Family Ventures, LLC (Mirowski) relating to the treatment of hemodynamic dysfunction. Medtronic and Mirowski dispute the application of the ‘119 and ‘897 Patents to certain Medtronic cardiac resynchronization products. On December 17, 2007, Medtronic filed an action in U.S. District Court for the District of Delaware seeking a declaration that none of its products infringe any valid claims of either the ‘119 or ‘897 Patents. If certain conditions are fulfilled, the ‘119 and/or ‘897 Patents are determined to be valid, and the Medtronic products are found to infringe the ‘119 and/or ‘897 Patents, Medtronic will be obligated to pay royalties to Mirowski based upon sales of certain cardiac resynchronization therapy-defibrillator (CRT-D) products. On March 30, 2011, the trial court entered a judgment of non-infringement in Medtronic’s favor. On September 16, 2012, the Federal Circuit reversed and remanded the trial court’s decision for a new trial, based on its holding that the trial court did not properly allocate the burden of proof in the initial proceedings. Medtronic’s petition for certiorari to the U.S. Supreme Court was granted, and on January 22, 2014, the Supreme Court reversed the Federal Circuit’s decision regarding the burden of proof. On March 11, 2014, the Federal Circuit affirmed the trial court’s judgment of non-infringement. On August 6, 2014, Mirowski filed a petition for certiorari to the U.S. Supreme Court asking for further review of the Federal Circuit’s affirmance. Medtronic has not recorded an expense pursuant to U.S. GAAP requirements in connection with this matter because any loss is not probable or reasonably estimable. Additionally, Medtronic cannot reasonably estimate the range of loss, if any, that may result from this matter.	Except as described above, the Company has not recorded an expense related to losses in connection with these matters because any potential loss is not currently probable or reasonably estimable under U.S. GAAP. Additionally, the Company cannot reasonably estimate the range of loss, if any, that may result from these matters.
		In the normal course of business, the Company periodically enters into agreements that require it to indemnify customers or suppliers for specific risks, such as claims for injury or property damage arising out of the Company’s products or the negligence of its personnel or claims alleging that its products infringe third-party patents or other intellectual property. The Company’s maximum exposure under these indemnification provisions cannot be estimated, and the Company has not accrued any liabilities within the consolidated financial statements. Historically, the Company has not experienced significant losses on these types of indemnifications.
	Other Matters
	Medtronic has received subpoenas or document requests from certain government bodies seeking information regarding sales, marketing, clinical, and other information relating to the INFUSE bone graft product, including civil investigative demands from the Attorneys General in Massachusetts, California, Oregon, Illinois, and Washington. Medtronic is fully cooperating with these requests.
	On October 14, 2010, Medtronic received a subpoena issued by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of New York pursuant to the Health Insurance Portability & Accountability Act of 1996, relating to Medtronic’s sales, marketing, and reimbursement support practices regarding certain neurostimulation devices. Medtronic is fully cooperating with this inquiry. Medtronic recorded an expense of $3 million in the first quarter of fiscal year 2015, related to probable and reasonably estimated damages in connection with this matter.
	On November 9, 2010, the French Competition Authority commenced an investigation of Medtronic, along with a number of other medical device companies, and the companies’ trade association, Syndicat National de l’Industrie des Technologies Medicales (SNITEM), to determine whether such companies or SNITEM engaged in any anticompetitive practices in responding to tenders to purchase certain medical devices. Medtronic is fully cooperating with the investigation.
	On December 3, 2013, Medtronic received a subpoena for records from the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Minnesota, requesting information relating to Medtronic’s compliance with the Trade Agreements Act. Medtronic is fully cooperating with this inquiry.
	Except as described above, Medtronic has not recorded an expense related to losses in connection with these matters because any potential loss is not currently probable or reasonably estimable under U.S. GAAP. Additionally, Medtronic cannot reasonably estimate the range of loss, if any, that may result from these matters.
	In the normal course of business, Medtronic periodically enters into agreements that require it to indemnify customers or suppliers for specific risks, such as claims for injury or property damage arising out of Medtronic’s products or the negligence of its personnel or claims alleging that its products infringe third-party patents or other intellectual property. Medtronic’s maximum exposure under these indemnification provisions cannot be estimated, and Medtronic has not accrued any liabilities within the consolidated financial statements. Historically, Medtronic has not experienced significant losses on these types of indemnifications.

Segment_and_Geographic_Informa

Segment and Geographic Information	3 Months Ended							12 Months Ended
	Jul. 25, 2014							Apr. 25, 2014
Segment Reporting [Abstract]	'							'
Segment and Geographic Information	'							'
								20. Segment and Geographic Information
	Note 20 – Segment and Geographic Information							The Company’s management evaluates performance and allocates resources based on profit and loss from operations before income taxes and interest expense, net, not including special charges, restructuring charges, net, certain litigation charges, net, acquisition-related items, and certain tax adjustments. The accounting policies of the reportable segments are the same as those described in the summary of significant accounting policies in Note 1.
								In the first quarter of fiscal year 2014, the Company amended the way in which management evaluates performance and allocates resources for the Diabetes business including separating the Diabetes business from the Restorative Therapies Group. As a result, the Company began to operate under three reportable segments and three operating segments with the Diabetes business operating as a separate group. Accordingly, the segment information for the prior years has been restated to present three reportable segments.
	Segment information							The Company’s Cardiac and Vascular Group consists of four businesses: Cardiac Rhythm Disease Management (CRDM), Coronary, Structural Heart, and Endovascular. The primary products sold by this operating segment include those for cardiac rhythm disorders and cardiovascular disease. The Company’s Restorative Therapies Group consists of three businesses: Spine, Neuromodulation, and Surgical Technologies. The primary products sold by this operating segment include those for spinal conditions and musculoskeletal trauma, neurological disorders, urological and digestive disorders, and ear, nose, and throat conditions. The primary products sold by the Company’s Diabetes Group include those for diabetes management.
								Net sales of the Company’s reportable segments include end-customer revenues from the sale of products they each develop and manufacture or distribute. Net sales and earnings before income taxes by reportable segment are as follows:
	Medtronic’s management evaluates performance and allocates resources based on profit and loss from operations before income taxes and interest expense, net, not including special charges, restructuring charges, net, certain litigation charges, net, and acquisition-related items. The accounting policies of the reportable segments are the same as those described in the summary of significant accounting policies in Note 1 to the consolidated audited financial statements included in this joint proxy statement/prospectus.
	Medtronic operates under three reportable segments and three operating segments. Medtronic’s Cardiac and Vascular Group consists of three businesses: Cardiac Rhythm & Heart Failure, Coronary & Structural Heart, and Aortic & Peripheral. The primary products sold by this operating segment include those for cardiac rhythm disorders and cardiovascular disease. Medtronic’s Restorative Therapies Group consists of three businesses: Spine, Neuromodulation, and Surgical Technologies. The primary products sold by this operating segment include those for spinal conditions and musculoskeletal trauma, neurological disorders, urological and digestive disorders, and ear, nose, and throat conditions. The primary products sold by Medtronic’s Diabetes Group include those for diabetes management.									Fiscal Year
								(in millions)		2014			2013			2012
	Net sales of Medtronic’s reportable segments include end-customer revenues from the sale of products they each develop and manufacture or distribute. Net sales and earnings before income taxes by reportable segment are as follows:							Cardiac and Vascular Group		$	8,847		$	8,695		$	8,482
								Restorative Therapies Group			6,501			6,369			6,221
								Diabetes Group			1,657			1,526			1,481
		Three months ended						Total Net Sales		$	17,005		$	16,590		$	16,184
	(in millions)	July 25,			July 26,
		2014			2013
	Cardiac and Vascular Group	$	2,254		$	2,160
	Restorative Therapies Group		1,603			1,554				Fiscal Year
	Diabetes Group		416			369		(in millions)		2014			2013			2012
								Cardiac and Vascular Group		$	2,982		$	2,935		$	2,772
	Total Net Sales	$	4,273		$	4,083		Restorative Therapies Group			1,821			1,778			1,707
								Diabetes Group			457			432			396
		Three months ended						Total Reportable Segments’ Earnings Before Income Taxes			5,260			5,145			4,875
	(in millions)	July 25,			July 26,			Special charges			(40	)		—			—
		2014			2013			Restructuring charges, net(a)			(88	)		(182	)		(87	)
	Cardiac and Vascular Group	$	712		$	756		Certain litigation charges, net			(770	)		(245	)		(90	)
	Restorative Therapies Group		410			421		Acquisition-related items			(117	)		49			(12	)
	Diabetes Group		120			75		Interest expense, net			(108	)		(151	)		(149	)
								Corporate			(432	)		(365	)		(392	)
	Total Reportable Segments’ Earnings Before Income Taxes		1,242			1,252
	Special charges		—			(40	)	Total Earnings From Continuing Operations Before Income Taxes		$	3,705		$	4,251		$	4,145
	Restructuring charges, net		(30	)		(18	)
	Acquisition-related items		(41	)		96
	Interest expense, net		(5	)		(40	)	(a)	For fiscal years 2014 and 2013, restructuring charges, net within this table include the impact of amounts recorded within cost of products sold in the consolidated statements of earnings related to the fiscal year 2014 initiative and fiscal year 2013 initiative, respectively.
	Corporate		(83	)		(97	)	The following table presents the Company’s net assets by reportable segment:
	Earnings Before Income Taxes	$	1,083		$	1,153
								(in millions)		April 25,			April 26,
										2014			2013
	Geographic information							Cardiac and Vascular Group		$	6,578		$	6,941
								Restorative Therapies Group			9,604			10,058
	Net sales to external customers by geography are as follows:							Diabetes Group			1,819			1,857
								Total Net Assets of Reportable Segments			18,001			18,856
								Short-term borrowings			(1,613	)		(910	)
		Three months ended						Long-term debt			(10,315	)		(9,741	)
	(in millions)	July 25,			July 26,			Corporate			13,370			10,466
		2014			2013
	United States	$	2,333		$	2,206		Total Net Assets		$	19,443		$	18,671
	Europe and Canada		1,081			1,046
	Asia-Pacific		649			656		Geographic Information
	Other Foreign		210			175		Net sales to external customers and property, plant, and equipment, net by geography are as follows:
	Total Net Sales	$	4,273		$	4,083
								(in millions)		United States			Europe and			Asia Pacific			Other		Consolidated
													Canada						Foreign
	Certain prior period net sales to external customers by geography have been corrected to conform to the current period classification. These revisions are considered immaterial.							Fiscal Year 2014
								Net sales to external customers		$	9,209		$	4,380		$	2,600		$	816	$	17,005
								Property, plant, and equipment, net		$	1,762		$	388		$	195		$	47	$	2,392
								Fiscal Year 2013
								Net sales to external customers		$	9,059		$	4,199		$	2,604		$	728	$	16,590
								Property, plant, and equipment, net		$	1,849		$	391		$	206		$	44	$	2,490
								Fiscal Year 2012
								Net sales to external customers		$	8,828		$	4,313		$	2,399		$	644	$	16,184
								Property, plant, and equipment, net		$	1,894		$	389		$	154		$	36	$	2,473
								No single customer represented over 10 percent of the Company’s consolidated net sales in fiscal years 2014, 2013, or 2012.

Subsequent_Events

Subsequent Events	3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Jul. 25, 2014	Apr. 25, 2014
Subsequent Events	'	'
		21. Subsequent Events
	Note 21 – Subsequent Events	On June 15, 2014, Medtronic, Inc., a Minnesota corporation (Medtronic), entered into a Transaction Agreement (the Transaction Agreement) by and among Medtronic, Covidien public limited company, an Irish public limited company (Covidien), Kalani I Limited, a private limited company organized under the laws of Ireland (New Medtronic), Makani II Limited, a private limited company organized under the laws of Ireland and a wholly-owned subsidiary of New Medtronic (IrSub), Aviation Acquisition Co., Inc., a Minnesota corporation (U.S. AcquisitionCo), and Aviation Merger Sub, LLC, a Minnesota limited liability company and a wholly-owned subsidiary of U.S. AcquisitionCo (MergerSub). Under the terms of the Transaction Agreement, (i) New Medtronic and IrSub will acquire Covidien (the Acquisition) pursuant to the Irish Scheme of Arrangement under Section 201, and a capital reduction under Sections 72 and 74, of the Irish Companies Act of 1963 (the Arrangement) and (ii) MergerSub will merge with and into Medtronic, with Medtronic as the surviving corporation in the merger (such merger, the Merger, and the Merger together with the Acquisition, the Pending Acquisition). As a result of the Pending Acquisition, both Medtronic and Covidien will become wholly-owned direct or indirect subsidiaries of New Medtronic.
		At the effective time of the Arrangement, (a) Covidien shareholders will be entitled to receive $35.19 in cash and 0.956 of a newly issued New Medtronic share (the Arrangement Consideration) in exchange for each Covidien share held by such shareholders, and (b) each share of Medtronic common stock will be converted into the right to receive one New Medtronic share. The total cash and stock value of the Pending Acquisition is approximately $42.9 billion based on Medtronic’s closing share price of $60.70 on June 13, 2014. It is expected that immediately after the closing of the Pending Acquisition, Covidien shareholders will own approximately 30 percent of New Medtronic on a fully diluted basis. Shares of New Medtronic are expected to trade on the New York Stock Exchange.
	The following developments have occurred since the events described in Medtronic’s unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements for the quarter ended July 25, 2014.	The Transaction Agreement may be terminated by mutual written consent of the parties. The Transaction Agreement also contains certain termination rights, including, among others, the right of either party to terminate if (a) the Arrangement has not become effective by March 15, 2015 (the End Date), subject to certain conditions, provided that the End Date will be extended to June 15, 2015 in certain circumstances, (b) the Covidien or Medtronic shareholder approvals are not obtained, (c) the other party breaches its representations and covenants and such breach would result in the closing conditions not being satisfied, subject to a cure period, (d) the Irish High Court declines to sanction the Arrangement, unless both parties agree to appeal the decision, or (e) there is a failure of the tax condition as described in Medtronic’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on June 16, 2014. Covidien also has the right, prior to the receipt of Covidien shareholder approval, to terminate the Transaction Agreement to accept a Covidien Superior Proposal (as defined in the Transaction Agreement) in certain circumstances.
		The Transaction Agreement also provides that Medtronic must pay Covidien a termination fee of $850 million if the Transaction Agreement is terminated because the Medtronic board of directors changes its recommendation for the transaction and the Medtronic shareholders vote against the Transaction, and either (i) Covidien obtained the requisite Covidien shareholder approval or (ii) Medtronic effected such termination prior to the completion of the Covidien shareholder meeting.
	Timing	The consummation of the Pending Acquisition is subject to certain conditions, including approvals by Medtronic and Covidien shareholders. In addition, the proposed transaction requires regulatory clearances in the U.S., the E.U., China, and certain other countries. The Pending Acquisition is expected to close in the fourth calendar quarter of 2014 or early 2015. Covidien is a global health care products company that creates innovative medical solutions for better patient outcomes and delivers value through clinical leadership and excellence. Covidien develops, manufactures, and sells a diverse range of industry-leading medical device and supply products.
		On June 15, 2014, Medtronic entered into a 364-day senior unsecured bridge credit agreement (the “Bridge Credit Agreement”) among Medtronic, New Medtronic, the lenders from time to time party thereto and Bank of America, N.A., as administrative agent. Under the Bridge Credit Agreement, Bank of America, N.A. has committed to provide Medtronic with unsecured financing in an aggregate principal amount of up to $2.8 billion. The commitments are intended to be drawn to finance, in part, the cash component of the acquisition consideration and certain transaction expenses to the extent Medtronic does not arrange for alternative financing prior to the consummation of the Pending Acquisition. New Medtronic has guaranteed the obligations of Medtronic under the Bridge Credit Agreement. If Medtronic draws loans under the Bridge Credit Agreement, it intends to refinance any debt incurred thereunder.
	Medtronic expects the transaction to close in early 2015.
		Medtronic will require an additional $13.5 billion in order to finance the cash component of the acquisition consideration and certain transaction expenses. Medtronic expects to have cash equivalents in such amount available to it by the time of the consummation of the Pending Acquisition. In order to backstop the anticipated amount of cash on hand at the consummation of the Pending Acquisition, on June 15, 2014, IrSub entered into a 60-day senior unsecured cash bridge credit agreement (the “Cash Bridge Credit Agreement” and together with the Bridge Credit Agreement, the “Credit Agreements”) among IrSub, New Medtronic, the lenders from time to time party thereto and Bank of America as administrative agent. Under the Cash Bridge Credit Agreement, Bank of America, N.A. has committed to provide IrSub with unsecured financing in an aggregate principal amount of up to $13.5 billion for a 60-day period. New Medtronic has also guaranteed the obligations of IrSub under the Cash Bridge Credit Agreement and each of Medtronic and Covidien has agreed to provide additional guarantees of such obligations following the consummation of the Pending Acquisition. Loans drawn under the Cash Bridge Credit Agreement are expected to be repaid from cash equivalents liquidated by Medtronic.
	Financing	The funding of the loans under each Credit Agreement (the Closing Date) is conditioned on, among other things, the consummation of the Pending Acquisition and the absence of certain events of defaults described in each Credit Agreement. The commitments under each Credit Agreement automatically terminate on the earliest of (a) the funding and disbursement of the loans to the borrower on the Closing Date, (b) the occurrence of certain mandatory cancellation events or (c) March 15, 2015 (or if all but certain conditions under the Transaction Agreement have been completed, one year after June 15, 2015).
		For further information regarding the Pending Acquisition and the Credit Agreements, please see the full text of the Transaction Agreement, a copy of which is filed as exhibit 2.1 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on June 16, 2014, the full text of the Bridge Credit Agreement, a copy of which is filed as exhibit 10.1 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on June 18, 2014, and the full text of the Cash Bridge Credit Agreement, a copy of which is filed as exhibit 10.2 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on June 18, 2014.
	General
	Medtronic initially contemplated financing a substantial portion of the cash component of the scheme consideration through an intercompany loan from one or more of its non-U.S. subsidiaries to IrSub. However, as announced on October 3, 2014, following the September 22, 2014 announcement by the U.S. Treasury Department and the IRS, Medtronic now expects that it will incur approximately $16.3 billion in external indebtedness to finance the cash component of the scheme consideration. Medtronic expects that a substantial portion of such external indebtedness will be incurred by Medtronic prior to the consummation of the transaction and will be guaranteed by New Medtronic. As a result, Medtronic, or its affiliates, will have a sufficient amount of cash available to it by the time of the consummation of the transaction to fund the cash component of the scheme consideration.
	New Bridge Credit Agreement
	On November 7, 2014, Medtronic entered into a 364-day senior unsecured bridge credit agreement (the “New Bridge Credit Agreement”), among Medtronic, New Medtronic, Medtronic Global Holdings SCA, a partnership limited by shares incorporated in Luxembourg and a wholly owned indirect subsidiary of New Medtronic (“Medtronic Luxco”), the lenders from time to time party thereto and Bank of America, N.A., as administrative agent. Under the New Bridge Credit Agreement, the lenders party thereto have committed to provide Medtronic with unsecured bridge financing in an aggregate principal amount of up to $11.3 billion. The commitments are intended to be available to finance, in part, the cash component of the scheme consideration and certain transaction expenses to the extent Medtronic does not arrange for alternative financing prior to the consummation of the transaction. New Medtronic and Medtronic Luxco have guaranteed the obligations. If Medtronic draws loans under the New Bridge Credit Agreement, it intends to refinance any such loans with the proceeds of other external indebtedness.
	Term Loan Credit Agreement
	On November 7, 2014, Medtronic also entered into a three-year senior unsecured term loan credit agreement (the “Term Loan Credit Agreement” and, together with the New Bridge Credit Agreement, the “New Credit Agreements”), among Medtronic, New Medtronic, Medtronic Luxco, the lenders from time to time party thereto and Bank of America, N.A., as administrative agent. Under the Term Loan Credit Agreement, the lenders party thereto have committed to provide Medtronic with unsecured term loan financing in an aggregate principal amount of up to $5.0 billion. Medtronic intends to draw upon such commitments on the consummation of the transaction to finance, in part, the cash component of the scheme consideration and certain transaction expenses. New Medtronic and Medtronic Luxco have guaranteed the obligations of Medtronic under the Term Loan Credit Agreement.
	Termination of Existing Bridge Credit Agreements
	In connection with its entrance into the New Bridge Credit Agreement and the Term Loan Credit Agreement, on November 7, 2014, Medtronic terminated the unsecured bridge commitments previously provided to it in an aggregate principal amount of $2.8 billion under the existing 364-day senior unsecured Bridge Credit Agreement dated as of June 15, 2014. On the same date, IrSub terminated the unsecured bridge commitments previously provided to it in an aggregate principal amount of $13.5 billion under the 60-day senior unsecured Cash Bridge Credit Agreement dated as of June 15, 2014.
	Amended and Restated Revolving Credit Agreement
	On November 7, 2014, Medtronic also entered into an amendment and restatement agreement (the “Revolver Amendment Agreement”), among Medtronic, New Medtronic, Medtronic Luxco, the lenders from time to time party thereto and Bank of America, N.A., as administrative agent and issuing bank. Under the Revolver Amendment Agreement, the parties thereto have agreed to enter into an amendment and restatement (the “Amended and Restated Revolving Credit Agreement”) of Medtronic’s existing $2.25 billion five-year senior unsecured revolving credit agreement dated as of December 17, 2012, among Medtronic, the lenders from time to time party thereto and Bank of America N.A., as administrative agent and issuing bank.
	The effectiveness of the Amended and Restated Revolving Credit Agreement is conditioned on, among other things, the consummation of the acquisition. Under the Amended and Restated Revolving Credit Agreement, the lenders party thereto will provide Medtronic and Medtronic Luxco with unsecured revolving credit commitments in an aggregate principal amount of up to $3.5 billion. The commitments are intended to be used for general corporate purposes, including acquisitions and working capital of Medtronic and Medtronic Luxco, and to replace the revolving credit facility currently available to Covidien. Medtronic and Medtronic Luxco will be co-borrowers under the Amended and Restated Revolving Credit Agreement and each of Medtronic, Medtronic Luxco and New Medtronic will also guarantee the obligations of the co-borrowers under the Amended and Restated Revolving Credit Agreement.
	A copy of the Bridge Credit Agreement is included as Exhibit 10.60 to the registration statement of which this joint proxy statement/prospectus forms a part. A copy of the Term Loan Credit Agreement is included as Exhibit 10.61 to the registration statement of which this joint proxy statement/prospectus forms a part. A copy of the Amended and Restated Revolving Credit Agreement is included as Exhibit 10.62 to the registration statement of which this joint proxy statement/prospectus forms a part. For further information regarding the Bridge Credit Agreement, the Term Loan Credit Agreement and the Amended and Restated Revolving Credit Agreement, please see the full text of the Bridge Credit Agreement, a copy of which is filed as Exhibit 10.1 to Medtronic’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on November 10, 2014, the full text of the Term Loan Credit Agreement, a copy of which is filed as Exhibit 10.2 to Medtronic’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on November 10, 2014 and the full text of the Amended and Restated Revolving Credit Agreement, a copy of which is filed as Exhibit 10.3 to Medtronic’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on November 10, 2014.
Unaudited [Member]	'	'
Subsequent Events	'	'
		22. Subsequent Events Update (unaudited)
		The following developments have occurred since the events described in Medtronic’s audited condensed consolidated financial statements for the year ended April 25, 2014.
		Timing
		Medtronic expects the transaction to close in early 2015.
		Financing
		General
		Medtronic initially contemplated financing a substantial portion of the cash component of the scheme consideration through an intercompany loan from one or more of its non-U.S. subsidiaries to IrSub. However, as announced on October 3, 2014, following the September 22, 2014 announcement by the U.S. Treasury Department and the IRS, Medtronic now expects that it will incur approximately $16.3 billion in external indebtedness to finance the cash component of the scheme consideration. Medtronic expects that a substantial portion of such external indebtedness will be incurred by Medtronic prior to the consummation of the transaction and will be guaranteed by New Medtronic. As a result, Medtronic, or its affiliates, will have a sufficient amount of cash available to it by the time of the consummation of the transaction to fund the cash component of the scheme consideration.
		New Bridge Credit Agreement
		On November 7, 2014, Medtronic entered into a 364-day senior unsecured bridge credit agreement (the “New Bridge Credit Agreement”), among Medtronic, New Medtronic, Medtronic Global Holdings SCA, a partnership limited by shares incorporated in Luxembourg and a wholly owned indirect subsidiary of New Medtronic (“Medtronic Luxco”), the lenders from time to time party thereto and Bank of America, N.A., as administrative agent. Under the New Bridge Credit Agreement, the lenders party thereto have committed to provide Medtronic with unsecured bridge financing in an aggregate principal amount of up to $11.3 billion. The commitments are intended to be available to finance, in part, the cash component of the scheme consideration and certain transaction expenses to the extent Medtronic does not arrange for alternative financing prior to the consummation of the transaction. New Medtronic and Medtronic Luxco have guaranteed the obligations of Medtronic under the New Bridge Credit Agreement. If Medtronic draws loans under the New Bridge Credit Agreement, it intends to refinance any such loans with the proceeds of other external indebtedness.
		Term Loan Credit Agreement
		On November 7, 2014, Medtronic also entered into a three-year senior unsecured term loan credit agreement (the “Term Loan Credit Agreement” and, together with the New Bridge Credit Agreement, the “New Credit Agreements”), among Medtronic, New Medtronic, Medtronic Luxco, the lenders from time to time party thereto and Bank of America, N.A., as administrative agent. Under the Term Loan Credit Agreement, the lenders party thereto have committed to provide Medtronic with unsecured term loan financing in an aggregate principal amount of up to $5.0 billion. Medtronic intends to draw upon such commitments on the consummation of the transaction to finance, in part, the cash component of the scheme consideration and certain transaction expenses. New Medtronic and Medtronic Luxco have guaranteed the obligations of Medtronic under the Term Loan Credit Agreement.
		Termination of Existing Bridge Credit Agreements
		In connection with its entrance into the New Bridge Credit Agreement and the Term Loan Credit Agreement, on November 7, 2014, Medtronic terminated the unsecured bridge commitments previously provided to it in an aggregate principal amount of $2.8 billion under the existing 364-day senior unsecured Bridge Credit Agreement dated as of June 15, 2014. On the same date, IrSub terminated the unsecured bridge commitments previously provided to it in an aggregate principal amount of $13.5 billion under the 60-day senior unsecured Cash Bridge Credit Agreement dated as of June 15, 2014.
		Amended and Restated Revolving Credit Agreement
		On November 7, 2014, Medtronic also entered into an amendment and restatement agreement (the “Revolver Amendment Agreement”), among Medtronic, New Medtronic, Medtronic Luxco, the lenders from time to time party thereto and Bank of America, N.A., as administrative agent and issuing bank. Under the Revolver Amendment Agreement, the parties thereto have agreed to enter into an amendment and restatement (the “Amended and Restated Revolving Credit Agreement”) of Medtronic’s existing $2.25 billion five-year senior unsecured revolving credit agreement dated as of December 17, 2012, among Medtronic, the lenders from time to time party thereto and Bank of America N.A., as administrative agent and issuing bank.
		The effectiveness of the Amended and Restated Revolving Credit Agreement is conditioned on, among other things, the consummation of the acquisition. Under the Amended and Restated Revolving Credit Agreement, the lenders party thereto will provide Medtronic and Medtronic Luxco with unsecured revolving credit commitments in an aggregate principal amount of up to $3.5 billion. The commitments are intended to be used for general corporate purposes, including acquisitions and working capital of Medtronic and Medtronic Luxco, and to replace the revolving credit facility currently available to Covidien. Medtronic and Medtronic Luxco will be co-borrowers under the A&R Revolving Credit Agreement and each of Medtronic, Medtronic Luxco and New Medtronic will also guarantee the obligations of the co-borrowers under the Amended and Restated Revolving Credit Agreement.
		A copy of the Bridge Credit Agreement is included as Exhibit 10.60 to the registration statement of which this joint proxy statement/prospectus forms a part. A copy of the Term Loan Credit Agreement is included as Exhibit 10.61 to the registration statement of which this joint proxy statement/prospectus forms a part. A copy of the Amended and Restated Revolving Credit Agreement is included as Exhibit 10.62 to the registration statement of which this joint proxy statement/prospectus forms a part. For further information regarding the Bridge Credit Agreement, the Term Loan Credit Agreement and the Amended and Restated Revolving Credit Agreement, please see the full text of the Bridge Credit Agreement, a copy of which is filed as Exhibit 10.1 to Medtronic’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on November 10, 2014, the full text of the Term Loan Credit Agreement, a copy of which is filed as Exhibit 10.2 to Medtronic’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on November 10, 2014 and the full text of the Amended and Restated Revolving Credit Agreement, a copy of which is filed as Exhibit 10.3 to Medtronic’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on November 10, 2014.

Summary_of_Significant_Account

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies	12 Months Ended
	Apr. 25, 2014
Accounting Policies [Abstract]	'
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies	'
	1. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
	Nature of Operations    Medtronic, Inc. (Medtronic or the Company) is the global leader in medical technology – alleviating pain, restoring health, and extending life for millions of people around the world. The Company provides innovative products and therapies for use by medical professionals to meet the health care needs of their patients. Primary products include those for cardiac rhythm disorders, cardiovascular disease, neurological disorders, spinal conditions and musculoskeletal trauma, urological and digestive disorders, and ear, nose, and throat and diabetes conditions.
	The Company is headquartered in Minneapolis, Minnesota, and markets its products primarily through a direct sales force in the United States (U.S.) and a combination of direct sales representatives and independent distributors in international markets. The primary markets for products are the U.S., Western Europe, Japan, and emerging markets.
	Principles of Consolidation    The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Medtronic, Inc., and its consolidated subsidiaries. All significant intercompany transactions and accounts have been eliminated. U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (U.S. GAAP) are applied when determining whether an entity is subject to consolidation.
	Beginning in the third quarter of fiscal year 2012, the results of operations, assets, and liabilities of the Physio-Control business, which were previously presented as a component of the Cardiac and Vascular Group operating segment, are classified as discontinued operations. All information in the following notes to the consolidated financial statements includes only results from continuing operations (excluding Physio-Control) for all periods presented, unless otherwise noted. For further information regarding discontinued operations, see Note 17.
	Fiscal Year-End    The Company utilizes a 52/53-week fiscal year, ending the last Friday in April. The Company’s fiscal years 2014, 2013, and 2012 ended on April 25, 2014, April 26, 2013, and April 27, 2012, respectively, all of which were 52-week years. Fiscal year 2016 is the next 53-week year.
	Reclassifications    In the first quarter of fiscal year 2014, the Company revised the classification of certain outstanding checks previously classified as a reduction of cash and cash equivalents in the prior period consolidated balance sheets to accounts payable, and revised the prior period consolidated statements of cash flows for the associated impact. Certain prior period disclosures have been reclassified to conform to current year presentation. These revisions are considered immaterial.
	Use of Estimates    The preparation of the financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts in the financial statements and accompanying notes. Actual results could differ materially from those estimates.
	Cash Equivalents    The Company considers highly liquid investments with maturities of three months or less from the date of purchase to be cash equivalents. These investments are carried at cost, which approximates fair value.
	Investments    Investments in marketable equity securities and debt securities are classified and accounted for as available-for-sale. Debt securities include corporate debt securities, U.S. and foreign government and agency securities, certificates of deposit, mortgage-backed securities, other asset-backed securities, debt funds, and auction rate securities. These investments are recorded at fair value in the consolidated balance sheets. The change in fair value for available-for-sale securities is recorded, net of taxes, as a component of accumulatedother comprehensive loss on the consolidated balance sheets. Management determines the appropriate classification of its investments in debt and equity securities at the time of purchase and reevaluates such determinations at each balance sheet date. The classification of marketable securities as current or long-term is based on the nature of the securities and their availability for use in current operations consistent with how the Company manages its capital structure and liquidity.
	Investments in securities that are classified and accounted for as trading securities include exchange-traded funds and are recorded at fair value on the consolidated balance sheets. The Company’s trading securities seek to offset changes in liabilities related to equity and other market risks of certain deferred compensation arrangements. The change in fair value for trading securities is recorded as a component of interest expense, net on the consolidated statements of earnings.
	Certain of the Company’s investments in equity and other securities are long-term, strategic investments in companies that are in varied stages of development. The Company accounts for these investments under the cost or the equity method of accounting, as appropriate. These investments are included in other assets on the consolidated balance sheets. The valuation of equity and other securities accounted for under the cost method considers all available financial information related to the investee, including valuations based on recent third-party equity investments in the investee. If an unrealized loss for any investment is considered to be other-than-temporary, the loss will be recognized in the consolidated statements of earnings in the period the determination is made. Equity securities accounted for under the equity method are initially recorded at the amount of the Company’s investment and adjusted each period for the Company’s share of the investee’s income or loss and dividends paid. Equity securities accounted for under both the cost and equity methods are reviewed quarterly for changes in circumstance or the occurrence of events that suggest the Company’s investment may not be recoverable. See Note 5 for discussion of the gains and losses recognized on equity and other securities.
	Accounts Receivable    The Company grants credit to customers in the normal course of business, but generally does not require collateral or any other security to support its receivables. The Company maintains an allowance for doubtful accounts for potential credit losses. Uncollectible accounts are written off against the allowance when it is deemed that a customer account is uncollectible.
	Inventories    Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or market, with cost determined on a first-in, first-out basis. Inventory balances are as follows:
	(in millions)	April 25,				April 26,
		2014				2013
	Finished goods	$	1,196			$	1,174
	Work in process		247				248
	Raw materials		282				290
	Total	$	1,725			$	1,712
	Property, Plant, and Equipment    Property, plant, and equipment is stated at cost. Additions and improvements that extend the lives of the assets are capitalized while expenditures for repairs and maintenance are expensed as incurred. Depreciation is provided using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the various assets. Property, plant, and equipment balances and corresponding lives are as follows:
	(in millions)	April 25,				April 26,				Lives
		2014				2013				(in years)
	Land and land improvements	$	152			$	151				Up to 20
	Buildings and leasehold improvements		1,565				1,532				Up to 40
	Equipment		4,409				4,110				7-Mar
	Construction in progress		313				359				—
	Subtotal		6,439				6,152
	Less: Accumulated depreciation		(4,047	)			(3,662	)
	Property, plant, and equipment, net	$	2,392			$	2,490
	Depreciation expense of $501 million, $488 million, and $498 million was recognized in fiscal years 2014, 2013, and 2012, respectively.
	Goodwill    Goodwill is the excess of the purchase price (consideration) over the estimated fair value of net assets, including in-process research and development (IPR&D), of acquired businesses. In accordance with U.S. GAAP, goodwill is not amortized. The Company assesses the impairment of goodwill annually in the third quarter and whenever an event occurs or circumstances change that would indicate the carrying amount may be impaired. Impairment testing for goodwill is done at a reporting unit level. An impairment loss is recognized when the carrying amount of the reporting unit’s net assets exceed the estimated fair value of the reporting unit. The estimated fair value is determined using a discounted future cash flow analysis.
	Other Intangible Assets    Other intangible assets include patents, trademarks, purchased technology, and IPR&D (since April 25, 2009). Intangible assets with a definite life are amortized on a straight-line or accelerated basis, as appropriate, with estimated useful lives ranging from three to 20 years. Intangible assets with a definite life are tested for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an intangible asset (asset group) may not be recoverable. Indefinite-lived intangible assets are tested for impairment annually in the third quarter and whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount may be impaired. Impairment is calculated as the excess of the asset’s carrying value over its fair value. Fair value is generally determined using a discounted future cash flow analysis.
	IPR&D    During fiscal year 2010, the Company adopted authoritative guidance related to business combinations. Subsequent to the adoption of this guidance, IPR&D acquired in a business combination is capitalized at its fair value as an indefinite-lived intangible asset. Prior to the adoption of this guidance, IPR&D was immediately expensed. The adoption of the authoritative guidance did not change the requirement to expense IPR&D immediately with respect to asset acquisitions. IPR&D charges are included within acquisition-related items in the consolidated statements of earnings. IPR&D has an indefinite life and is not amortized until completion and development of the project, at which time the IPR&D becomes an amortizable asset. If the related project is not completed in a timely manner or the project is terminated or abandoned, the Company may have an impairment related to the IPR&D, calculated as the excess of the asset’s carrying value over its fair value.
	The Company’s policy defines IPR&D as the fair value of those projects for which the related products have not received regulatory approval and have no alternative future use. Determining the fair value of IPR&D acquired as part of a business combination requires the Company to make significant estimates. The fair value assigned to IPR&D is determined by estimating the future cash flows of each project or technology and discounting the net cash flows back to their present values. The discount rate used is determined at the time of measurement in accordance with accepted valuation methodologies. These methodologies include consideration of the risk of the project not achieving commercial feasibility.
	At the time of acquisition, the Company expects that all acquired IPR&D will reach technological feasibility, but there can be no assurance that the commercial viability of these products will actually be achieved. The nature of the efforts to develop the acquired technologies into commercially viable products consists principally of planning, designing, and conducting clinical trials necessary to obtain regulatory approvals. The risks associated with achieving commercialization include, but are not limited to, delay or failure to obtain regulatory approvals to conduct clinical trials, delay or failure to obtain required market clearances, or delays or issues with patent issuance, or validity and litigation. If commercial viability were not achieved, the Company would likely look to other alternatives to provide these therapies.
	Contingent Consideration    During fiscal year 2010, as mentioned above, the Company adopted authoritative guidance related to business combinations. Under this guidance, the Company must recognize contingent consideration at fair value at the acquisition date. Prior to the adoption of this guidance, contingent consideration was not included on the balance sheet and was recorded as incurred. The acquisition date fair value is measured based on the consideration expected to be transferred (probability-weighted), discounted back to present value. The discount rate used is determined at the time of measurement in accordance with accepted valuation methodologies. The fair value of the contingent consideration is remeasured at the estimated fair value at each reporting period with the change in fair value recognized as income or expense within acquisition-related items in the consolidated statements of earnings. Therefore, any changes in the fair value will impact the Company’s earnings in such reporting period thereby resulting in potential variability in the Company’s earnings until contingencies are resolved.
	Warranty Obligation    The Company offers a warranty on various products. The Company estimates the costs that may be incurred under its warranties and records a liability in the amount of such costs at the time the product is sold. Factors that affect the Company’s warranty liability include the number of units sold, historical and anticipated rates of warranty claims, and cost per claim. The Company periodically assesses the adequacy of its recorded warranty liabilities and adjusts the amounts as necessary. The amount of the reserve recorded is equal to the net costs to repair or otherwise satisfy the claim. The Company includes the warranty obligation in other accrued expenses and other long-term liabilities on the Company’s consolidated balance sheets. The Company includes the covered costs associated with field actions, if any, in cost of products sold in the Company’s consolidated statements of earnings.
	Changes in the Company’s product warranty obligations during the years ended April 25, 2014 and April 26, 2013 consisted of the following:
	(in millions)
	Balance as of April 27, 2012			$	31
	Warranty claims provision				25
	Settlements made				(21	)
	Balance as of April 26, 2013			$	35
	Warranty claims provision				25
	Settlements made				(28	)
	Balance as of April 25, 2014			$	32
	Self-Insurance    It is the Company’s policy to self-insure the vast majority of its insurable risks including medical and dental costs, disability coverage, physical loss to property, business interruptions, workers’ compensation, comprehensive general, and product liability. Insurance coverage is obtained for those risks required to be insured by law or contract. The Company uses claims data and historical experience, as applicable, to estimate liabilities associated with the exposures that the Company has self-insured. Based on historical loss trends, the Company believes that its self-insurance program accruals and its existing insurance coverage will be adequate to cover future losses. Historical trends, however, may not be indicative of future losses. These losses could have a material adverse impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.
	Retirement Benefit Plan Assumptions    The Company sponsors various retirement benefit plans, including defined benefit pension plans (pension benefits), post-retirement medical plans (post-retirement benefits), defined contribution savings plans, and termination indemnity plans, covering substantially all U.S. employees and many employees outside the U.S. Pension benefit costs include assumptions for the discount rate, retirement age, compensation rate increases, and the expected return on plan assets. Post-retirement medical benefit costs include assumptions for the discount rate, retirement age, expected return on plan assets, and health care cost trend rate assumptions.
	The Company evaluates the assumptions, including discount rate, retirement age, compensation rate increases, expected return on plan assets, and health care cost trend assumptions of its pension benefits and post-retirement benefits annually. In evaluating these assumptions, many factors are considered, including an evaluation of assumptions made by other companies, historical assumptions compared to actual results, current market conditions, asset allocations, and the views of leading financial advisors and economists. In evaluating the expected retirement age assumption, the Company considers the retirement ages of past employees eligible for pension and medical benefits together with expectations of future retirement ages. Refer to Note 14 for additional information regarding the Company’s retirement benefit plans.
	Accrued Certain Litigation Charges    As of April 25, 2014 and April 26, 2013, accrued certain litigation charges were $917 million and $161 million, respectively. The Company includes accrued certain litigation charges in other accrued expenses on the Company’s consolidated balance sheets.
	Revenue Recognition    The Company sells its products primarily through a direct sales force in the U.S. and a combination of direct sales representatives and independent distributors in international markets. The Company recognizes revenue when title to the goods and risk of loss transfers to customers, provided there are no material remaining performance obligations required of the Company or any matters requiring customer acceptance. In cases where the Company utilizes distributors or ships product directly to the end user, it recognizes revenue upon shipment provided all revenue recognition criteria have been met. A portion of the Company’s revenue is generated from inventory maintained at hospitals or with field representatives. For these products, revenue is recognized at the time the product has been used or implanted. The Company records estimated sales returns, discounts, and rebates as a reduction of net sales in the same period revenue is recognized.
	For multiple-element arrangements, the Company allocates arrangement consideration to the deliverables by use of the relative selling price method. The selling price used for each deliverable is based on vendor–specific objective evidence (VSOE) if available, third–party evidence (TPE) if VSOE is not available, or best estimated selling price (BESP) if neither VSOE nor TPE is available. BESP is determined in a manner consistent with that used to establish the price to sell the deliverable on a standalone basis.
	Shipping and Handling    Shipping and handling costs incurred were $194 million, $182 million, and $167 million in fiscal years 2014, 2013, and 2012, respectively, and are included in selling, general, and administrative expense in the consolidated statements of earnings.
	Research and Development    Research and development costs are expensed when incurred. Research and development costs include costs of all basic research activities as well as other research, engineering, and technical effort required to develop a new product or service or make significant improvement to an existing product or manufacturing process. Research and development costs also include pre-approval regulatory and clinical trial expenses.
	Other Expense, Net    Other expense, net includes royalty income and expense, realized equity security gains and losses, realized foreign currency transaction and derivative gains and losses, impairment charges on equity securities, the Puerto Rico excise tax, and the U.S. medical device excise tax.
	Stock-Based Compensation    The Company’s compensation programs include share-based payments. All awards under share-based payment programs are accounted for at fair value and these fair values are generally amortized on a straight-line basis over the vesting terms into cost of products sold, research and development expense, and selling, general, and administrative expense in the consolidated statements of earnings, as appropriate. Refer to Note 12 for additional information.
	Foreign Currency Translation    Assets and liabilities of non-U.S. dollar functional currency entities are translated to U.S. dollars at period-end exchange rates, and the resulting gains and losses arising from the translation of those net assets are recorded as a cumulative translation adjustment, a component of accumulated other comprehensive loss on the consolidated balance sheets. Elements of the consolidated statements of earnings are translated at average currency exchange rates in effect during the period and foreign currency transaction gains and losses are included in other expense, net in the consolidated statements of earnings.
	Comprehensive Income and Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss    In addition to net earnings, comprehensive income includes changes in currency exchange rate translation adjustments, unrealized gains and losses on currency exchange rate derivative contracts and interest rate derivative instruments qualifying and designated as cash flow hedges, net changes in retirement obligation funded status, and unrealized gains and losses on available-for-sale marketable securities. Taxes are not provided on cumulative translation adjustments as substantially all translation adjustments relate to earnings that are intended to be indefinitely reinvested outside the U.S.
	Presented below is a summary of activity for each component of accumulated other comprehensive loss for fiscal years 2013 and 2012:
	(in millions)			Unrealized				Cumulative				Net Change			Unrealized			Accumulated
				Gain (Loss)				Translation				in			Gain (Loss)			Other
				on				Adjustments				Retirement			on			Comprehensive
Available-for-								Obligations				Derivatives			Loss
Sale Securities
Balance as of April 29, 2011			$	196			$	443			$	(607	)	$	(256	)	$	(224	)
Other comprehensive (loss) income				(66	)			(137	)			(227	)		181			(249	)
Balance as of April 27, 2012			$	130			$	306			$	(834	)	$	(75	)	$	(473	)
Other comprehensive (loss) income				(33	)			(21	)			(18	)		53			(19	)
Correction of classification				—				(80	)			—			80			—
Balance as of April 26, 2013			$	97			$	205			$	(852	)	$	58		$	(492	)
Included in cumulative translation adjustments is translation on certain foreign exchange rate derivatives held by non-U.S. dollar functional currency entities. In fiscal year 2014, the Company corrected the classification of cumulative translation of the unrealized gains (losses) on certain foreign exchange rate derivatives held by non-U.S. dollar functional currency entities from cumulative translation adjustment (CTA) to unrealized gain (loss) on derivatives. The Company has applied this change retrospectively to April 26, 2013 as a correction of the classification in the table above. In the first quarter of fiscal year 2014, the Company prospectively adopted guidance issued that requires additional disclosure related to the impact of reclassification adjustments out of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) on net income. The required disclosures are included in Note 16.
Refer to the consolidated statements of comprehensive income for additional information.
Derivatives    U.S. GAAP requires companies to recognize all derivatives as assets and liabilities on the balance sheet and to measure the instruments at fair value through earnings unless the derivative qualifies as a hedge. If the derivative is a hedge, depending on the nature of the hedge and hedge effectiveness, changes in the fair value of the derivative will either be recognized currently through earnings or recorded in other comprehensive income (loss) until the hedged item is recognized in earnings upon settlement/termination. The changes in the fair value of the derivative are intended to offset the change in fair value of the hedged asset, liability, or probable commitment. The Company evaluates hedge effectiveness at inception and on an ongoing basis. If a derivative is no longer expected to be highly effective, hedge accounting is discontinued. Hedge ineffectiveness, if any, is recorded in earnings.
The Company uses operational and economic hedges, as well as currency exchange rate derivative contracts and interest rate derivative instruments, to manage the impact of currency exchange and interest rate changes on earnings and cash flows. In order to minimize earnings and cash flow volatility resulting from currency exchange rate changes, the Company enters into derivative instruments, principally forward currency exchange rate contracts. These contracts are designed to hedge anticipated foreign currency transactions and changes in the value of specific assets and liabilities. At inception of the forward contract, the derivative is designated as either a freestanding derivative or a cash flow hedge. The primary currencies of the derivative instruments are the Euro and Japanese Yen. The Company does not enter into currency exchange rate derivative contracts for speculative purposes. All derivative instruments are recorded at fair value on the consolidated balance sheets, as a component of prepaid expenses and other current assets, other assets, other accrued expenses, or other long-term liabilities depending upon the gain or loss position of the contract and contract maturity date.
Forward contracts designated as cash flow hedges are designed to hedge the variability of cash flows associated with forecasted transactions denominated in a foreign currency that will take place in the future. For derivative instruments that are designated and qualify as a cash flow hedge, the effective portion of the gain or loss on the derivative instrument is reported as a component of accumulated other comprehensive loss. The effective portion of the gain or loss on the derivative instrument is reclassified into earnings and is included in other expense, net or cost of products sold in the consolidated statements of earnings, depending on the underlying transaction that is being hedged, in the same period or periods during which the hedged transaction affects earnings. The cash flows from these contracts are reported as operating activities in the consolidated statements of cash flows.
The Company uses freestanding derivative forward contracts to offset its exposure to the change in value of specific foreign currency denominated assets and liabilities. These derivatives are not designated as hedges, and therefore, changes in the value of these forward contracts are recognized in earnings, thereby offsetting the current earnings effect of the related change in value of foreign currency denominated assets and liabilities.
The Company uses forward starting interest rate derivative instruments designated as cash flow hedges to manage the exposure to interest rate volatility with regard to future issuances of fixed-rate debt. The effective portion of the gains or losses on the forward starting interest rate derivative instruments that are designated and qualify as cash flow hedges are reported as a component of accumulated other comprehensive loss. Beginning in the period in which the planned debt issuance occurs and the related derivative instruments are terminated, the effective portion of the gains or losses are then reclassified into interest expense, net over the term of the related debt. Any portion of the gains or losses that are determined to be ineffective are immediately recognized in interest expense, net. The cash flows from these contracts are reported as operating activities in the consolidated statements of cash flows.
The Company uses interest rate derivative instruments designated as fair value hedges to manage the exposure to interest rate movements and to reduce borrowing costs by converting fixed-rate debt into floating-rate debt. Under these agreements, the Company agrees to exchange, at specified intervals, the difference between fixed and floating interest amounts calculated by reference to agreed-upon notional principal amounts. Changes in the fair value of the derivative instrument are recorded in interest expense, net, and are offset by changes in the fair value on the underlying debt instrument. The cash flows from these contracts are reported as operating activities in the consolidated statements of cash flows. The gains (losses) from terminated interest rate swap agreements are recorded in long-term debt, increasing (decreasing) the outstanding balances of the debt, and amortized as a reduction (addition) of interest expense, net over the remaining life of the related debt. The cash flows from the termination of the interest rate swap agreements are reported as operating activities in the consolidated statements of cash flows.
In addition, the Company has collateral credit agreements with its primary derivative counterparties. Under these agreements, either party is required to post eligible collateral when the market value of transactions covered by the agreement exceeds specific thresholds, thus limiting credit exposure for both parties.
Earnings Per Share    Basic earnings per share is computed based on the weighted average number of common shares outstanding. Diluted earnings per share is computed based on the weighted average number of common shares outstanding, increased by the number of additional shares that would have been outstanding had the potentially dilutive common shares been issued, and reduced by the number of shares the Company could have repurchased from the proceeds from issuance of the potentially dilutive shares. Potentially dilutive shares of common stock include stock options and other stock-based awards granted under stock-based compensation plans and shares committed to be purchased under the employee stock purchase plan.
The table below sets forth the computation of basic and diluted earnings per share:
	Fiscal Year
(in millions, except per share data)	2014				2013				2012
Numerator:
Earnings from continuing operations	$	3,065			$	3,467			$	3,415
Earnings from discontinued operations		—				—				202
Net earnings		3,065				3,467				3,617
Denominator:
Basic – weighted average shares outstanding		1,002.10				1,019.30				1,053.90
Effect of dilutive securities:
Employee stock options		7.1				2.8				0.9
Employee restricted stock units		4.3				5.3				4.9
Other		0.1				0.1				0.2
Diluted – weighted average shares outstanding		1,013.60				1,027.50				1,059.90
Basic earnings per share:
Earnings from continuing operations	$	3.06			$	3.4			$	3.24
Earnings from discontinued operations	$	—			$	—			$	0.19
Net earnings	$	3.06			$	3.4			$	3.43
Diluted earnings per share:
Earnings from continuing operations	$	3.02			$	3.37			$	3.22
Earnings from discontinued operations	$	—			$	—			$	0.19
Net earnings	$	3.02			$	3.37			$	3.41
The calculation of weighted average diluted shares outstanding excludes options for approximately 5 million, 38 million, and 51 million shares of common stock in fiscal years 2014, 2013, and 2012, respectively, because their effect would be anti-dilutive on the Company’s earnings per share.
New Accounting Standards
Recently Adopted
In December 2011 and January 2013, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued new accounting guidance related to disclosures on offsetting assets and liabilities on the balance sheet. This newly issued accounting standard requires an entity to disclose both gross and net information about instruments and transactions eligible for offset in the balance sheet as well as instruments and transactions executed under a master netting or similar arrangement and was issued to enable users of financial statements to understand the effects or potential effects of those arrangements on its financial position. The Company retrospectively adopted this accounting guidance in the first quarter of fiscal year 2014. The required disclosures are included in Note 9. Since the accounting guidance only requires disclosure, its adoption did not have a material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.
In July 2012, the FASB updated the accounting guidance related to annual and interim indefinite-lived intangible asset impairment testing. The updated accounting guidance allows entities to first assess qualitative factors before performing a quantitative assessment of the fair value of indefinite-lived intangible assets. If it is determined on the basis of qualitative factors that the fair value of indefinite-lived intangible assets is more likely than not less than the carrying amount, the existing quantitative impairment test is required. Otherwise, no further impairment testing is required. The Company adopted this accounting guidance in the first quarter of fiscal year 2014 and its adoption did not have a material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.
In February 2013, the FASB expanded the disclosure requirements with respect to changes in accumulated other comprehensive income (AOCI). Under this new guidance, companies are required to disclose the amount of income (or loss) reclassified out of AOCI to each respective line item on the statements of earnings where net income is presented. The guidance allows companies to elect whether to disclose the reclassification either in the notes to the financial statements or parenthetically on the face of the financial statements. In the first quarter of fiscal year 2014, the Company prospectively adopted this guidance. The required disclosures are included in Note 16. Since the accounting guidance only impacts disclosure requirements, its adoption did not have a material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.
Not Yet Adopted
In March 2013, the FASB issued amended guidance on a parent company’s accounting for the CTA recorded in AOCI associated with a foreign entity. The amendment requires a parent to release into net income the CTA related to its investment in a foreign entity when it either sells a part or all of its investment, or no longer holds a controlling financial interest, in a subsidiary or group of assets within a foreign entity. This accounting guidance is effective for the Company beginning in the first quarter of fiscal year 2015. Subsequent to adoption, this amended guidance would impact the Company’s financial position and results of operations prospectively in the instance of an event or transaction described above.
In July 2013, the FASB issued amended guidance on the financial statement presentation of an unrecognized tax benefit when a net operating loss carryforward, similar tax loss, or tax credit carryforward exists. The guidance requires an unrecognized tax benefit, or a portion of an unrecognized tax benefit, to be presented as a reduction of a deferred tax asset when a net operating loss carryforward, similar tax loss, or tax credit carryforward exists, with certain exceptions. This accounting guidance is effective prospectively for the Company beginning in the first quarter of fiscal year 2015. The adoption is not expected to have a material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.
In April 2014, the FASB issued amended guidance for reporting discontinued operations. The amended guidance changes the criteria for determining when the results of operations are to be reported as discontinued operations and expands the related disclosure requirements. The guidance defines a discontinued operation as a disposal of a component or group of components that is disposed of or classified as held for sale which is a strategic shift that has, or will have, a major effect on financial position and results of operations. This accounting guidance is effective prospectively for the Company beginning in the first quarter of fiscal year 2016, with early adoption permitted. The adoption is not expected to have a material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.
In May 2014, the FASB issued amended revenue recognition guidance to clarify the principles for recognizing revenue from contracts with customers. The guidance requires an entity to recognize revenue to depict the transfer of goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which an entity expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. The guidance also requires expanded disclosures relating to the nature, amount, timing, and uncertainty of revenue and cash flows arising from contracts with customers. Additionally, qualitative and quantitative disclosures are required about customer contracts, significant judgments and changes in judgments, and assets recognized from the costs to obtain or fulfill a contract. This accounting guidance is effective for the Company beginning in the first quarter of fiscal year 2018 using one of two prescribed retrospective methods. Early adoption is not permitted. The Company is evaluating the impact of the amended revenue recognition guidance on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.

Shareholders_Equity

Shareholders' Equity	12 Months Ended
	Apr. 25, 2014
Equity [Abstract]	'
Shareholders' Equity	'
	11. Shareholders’ Equity
	Shares are repurchased from time to time to support the Company’s stock-based compensation programs and to return capital to shareholders. In June 2013 and June 2011, the Company’s Board of Directors authorized the repurchase of 80 million and 75 million shares of the Company’s common stock, respectively. During fiscal years 2014 and 2013, the Company repurchased approximately 47.8 million and 31.2 million shares at an average price of $53.37 and $39.97, respectively. As of April 25, 2014, the Company had used the entire amount authorized under the June 2011 repurchase program and 20.6 million of the 80 million shares authorized under the June 2013 repurchase program, leaving 59.4 million shares available for future repurchases. The Company accounts for repurchases of common stock using the par value method and shares repurchased are canceled.

Leases

Leases	12 Months Ended
	Apr. 25, 2014
Leases [Abstract]	'
Leases	'
	15. Leases
	The Company leases office, manufacturing, and research facilities and warehouses, as well as transportation, data processing, and other equipment under capital and operating leases. A substantial number of these leases contain options that allow the Company to renew at the fair rental value on the date of renewal.
	Future minimum payments under capitalized leases and non-cancelable operating leases at April 25, 2014 are:
	(in millions)	Capitalized			Operating
	Fiscal Year	Leases			Leases
	2015	$	18		$	112
	2016		17			77
	2017		34			45
	2018		22			21
	2019		22			13
	Thereafter		64			23
	Total minimum lease payments	$	177		$	291
	Less amounts representing interest		(24	)		N/A
	Present value of net minimum lease payments	$	153			N/A
	Rent expense for all operating leases, including discontinued operations in prior years, was $150 million, $140 million, and $153 million in fiscal years 2014, 2013, and 2012, respectively.
	In April 2012, the Company entered into a $165 million sale-leaseback agreement with a financial institution whereby certain manufacturing equipment was sold to the financial institution and is being leased by the Company over a ten-year period. The transaction was recorded as a capital lease and is included in the table above. Payments for the remaining balance of the sale-leaseback agreement are due monthly for the first five years, and then annually, for the remaining five years. The lease provides for an early buyout option whereby the Company, at its option, could repurchase the equipment at a pre-determined fair market value in calendar year 2017.

Discontinued_Operations

Discontinued Operations	12 Months Ended
	Apr. 25, 2014
Discontinued Operations and Disposal Groups [Abstract]	'
Discontinued Operations	'
	17. Discontinued Operations
	Beginning in the third quarter of fiscal year 2012, the results of operations, assets, and liabilities of the Physio-Control business, which were previously presented as a component of the Cardiac and Vascular Group operating segment, are classified as discontinued operations.
	On January 30, 2012, the Company completed the sale of the Physio-Control business to Bain Capital Partners, LLC. The Company sold $164 million in net assets and received $386 million in net cash. Additionally, the Company entered into a Transition Services Agreement (TSA) with Physio-Control in which the Company provided transition services for Physio-Control through fiscal year 2013 as it established standalone processes separate from Medtronic. The TSA required the Company to continue to provide certain back-office support functions to Physio-Control in the areas of finance, facilities, human resources, customer service, IT, quality and regulatory, and operations. The Company was compensated for the services specified in the TSA. The Company recorded the income earned from the TSA in other expense, net in the consolidated statements of earnings.
	The following is a summary of the operating results of Physio-Control for discontinued operations for fiscal year 2012:
	(in millions)	2012
	Discontinued operations:
	Net sales	$	323
	Earnings from operations of Physio-Control	$	48
	Physio-Control divestiture-related costs		(42	)
	Gain on sale of Physio-Control		218
	Income tax expense		(22	)
	Earnings from discontinued operations	$	202
	In the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2012, the Company recognized a pre-tax gain on sale of $218 million, which included a reversal of the portion of the Company’s currency translation adjustment related to Physio-Control. Additionally, during fiscal year 2012, the Company recorded $42 million of Physio-Control divestiture-related costs in discontinued operations. The Company reclassified $12 million of Physio-Control divestiture-related costs previously recorded in acquisition-related items within continuing operations on the consolidated statements of earnings in the first and second quarters of fiscal year 2012 to discontinued operations.

Quarterly_Financial_Data_unaud

Quarterly Financial Data (unaudited)	12 Months Ended
	Apr. 25, 2014
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Quarterly Financial Data (unaudited)	'
	19. Quarterly Financial Data (unaudited)
	(in millions,		First Quarter		Second Quarter		Third Quarter		Fourth Quarter		Fiscal Year
	except per share data)
	Net Sales
		2014	$	4,083	$	4,194	$	4,163	$	4,566	$	17,005
		2013		4,008		4,095		4,027		4,459		16,590
	Gross Profit
		2014	$	3,061	$	3,104	$	3,113	$	3,395	$	12,672
		2013		3,035		3,075		3,028		3,325		12,464
	Net Earnings
		2014	$	953	$	902	$	762	$	448	$	3,065
		2013		864		646		988		969		3,467
	Basic Earnings per Share
		2014	$	0.94	$	0.9	$	0.76	$	0.45		3.06
		2013		0.84		0.63		0.98		0.96		3.4
	Diluted Earnings per Share
		2014	$	0.93	$	0.89	$	0.75	$	0.44		3.02
		2013		0.83		0.63		0.97		0.95		3.37
	The data in the schedule above has been intentionally rounded to the nearest million, and therefore, the quarterly amounts may not sum to the fiscal year-to-date amounts.

SCHEDULE_II_VALUATION_AND_QUAL

SCHEDULE II - VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS	12 Months Ended
	Apr. 25, 2014
Valuation and Qualifying Accounts [Abstract]	'
SCHEDULE II - VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS	'
	SCHEDULE II – VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS
	(in millions)
		Balance at		Additions				Deductions			Balance
		Beginning of									at End of
		Fiscal Year*		Charges to		Charges to Other		Other			Fiscal Year*
				Earnings*		Accounts*		Changes
								(Debit) Credit*
	Allowance for doubtful accounts:
	Year ended 4/25/14	$	98	$	43	$	—	$	(30	) (a)	$	115
								$	4	(b)
	Year ended 4/26/13	$	100	$	51	$	—	$	(53	) (a)	$	98
								$	—	(b)
	Year ended 4/27/12	$	97	$	66	$	—	$	(55	) (a)	$	100
								$	(8	) (b)
	Deferred tax valuation allowance:
	Year ended 4/25/14	$	313	$	104	$	5	$	(29	) (c)	$	397
								$	4	(b)
	Year ended 4/26/13	$	258	$	71	$	—	$	(15	) (c)	$	313
								$	(1	) (b)
	Year ended 4/27/12	$	286	$	49	$	—	$	(77	) (c)	$	258
								$	—	(b)
	* For the fiscal year ended April 27, 2012, amounts include the results from both continuing operations and discontinued operations.
	(a) Uncollectible accounts written off, less recoveries.
	(b) Reflects primarily the effects of foreign currency fluctuations.
	(c) Decrease in deferred tax valuation allowance due to carryover attribute utilization and expiration.

Basis_of_Presentation_Policies

Basis of Presentation (Policies)	3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Jul. 25, 2014	Apr. 25, 2014
Accounting Policies [Abstract]	'	'
Basis of Presentation	'	'
	The accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (U.S.) (U.S. GAAP) for interim financial information and with the instructions to Form 10-Q and Article 10 of Regulation S-X. Accordingly, they do not include all of the information necessary for a fair presentation of results of operations, comprehensive income, financial condition, and cash flows in conformity with U.S. GAAP. In the opinion of management, the condensed consolidated financial statements reflect all adjustments (consisting of normal recurring adjustments) considered necessary for a fair presentation of the results of Medtronic, Inc. and its subsidiaries (Medtronic or the Company) for the periods presented. Operating results for interim periods are not necessarily indicative of results that may be expected for the fiscal year as a whole. The preparation of the financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues, expenses, and the related disclosures at the date of the financial statements and during the reporting period. Actual results could materially differ from these estimates. For further information, refer to the consolidated financial statements and notes thereto included in this joint proxy statement/prospectus beginning on page F-43.
Fiscal Period	'	'
		Fiscal Year-End    The Company utilizes a 52/53-week fiscal year, ending the last Friday in April. The Company’s fiscal years 2014, 2013, and 2012 ended on April 25, 2014, April 26, 2013, and April 27, 2012, respectively, all of which were 52-week years. Fiscal year 2016 is the next 53-week year.
	Medtronic’s fiscal years 2015, 2014, and 2013 will end or ended on April 24, 2015, April 25, 2014, and April 26, 2013, respectively
Nature of Operations	'	'
		Nature of Operations    Medtronic, Inc. (Medtronic or the Company) is the global leader in medical technology – alleviating pain, restoring health, and extending life for millions of people around the world. The Company provides innovative products and therapies for use by medical professionals to meet the health care needs of their patients. Primary products include those for cardiac rhythm disorders, cardiovascular disease, neurological disorders, spinal conditions and musculoskeletal trauma, urological and digestive disorders, and ear, nose, and throat and diabetes conditions.
		The Company is headquartered in Minneapolis, Minnesota, and markets its products primarily through a direct sales force in the United States (U.S.) and a combination of direct sales representatives and independent distributors in international markets. The primary markets for products are the U.S., Western Europe, Japan, and emerging markets.
Principles of Consolidation	'	'
		Principles of Consolidation    The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Medtronic, Inc., and its consolidated subsidiaries. All significant intercompany transactions and accounts have been eliminated. U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (U.S. GAAP) are applied when determining whether an entity is subject to consolidation.
		Beginning in the third quarter of fiscal year 2012, the results of operations, assets, and liabilities of the Physio-Control business, which were previously presented as a component of the Cardiac and Vascular Group operating segment, are classified as discontinued operations. All information in the following notes to the consolidated financial statements includes only results from continuing operations (excluding Physio-Control) for all periods presented, unless otherwise noted. For further information regarding discontinued operations, see Note 17.
Use of Estimates	'	'
		Use of Estimates    The preparation of the financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts in the financial statements and accompanying notes. Actual results could differ materially from those estimates.
Cash Equivalents	'	'
		Cash Equivalents    The Company considers highly liquid investments with maturities of three months or less from the date of purchase to be cash equivalents. These investments are carried at cost, which approximates fair value.
Investments	'	'
		Investments    Investments in marketable equity securities and debt securities are classified and accounted for as available-for-sale. Debt securities include corporate debt securities, U.S. and foreign government and agency securities, certificates of deposit, mortgage-backed securities, other asset-backed securities, debt funds, and auction rate securities. These investments are recorded at fair value in the consolidated balance sheets. The change in fair value for available-for-sale securities is recorded, net of taxes, as a component of accumulatedother comprehensive loss on the consolidated balance sheets. Management determines the appropriate classification of its investments in debt and equity securities at the time of purchase and reevaluates such determinations at each balance sheet date. The classification of marketable securities as current or long-term is based on the nature of the securities and their availability for use in current operations consistent with how the Company manages its capital structure and liquidity.
		Investments in securities that are classified and accounted for as trading securities include exchange-traded funds and are recorded at fair value on the consolidated balance sheets. The Company’s trading securities seek to offset changes in liabilities related to equity and other market risks of certain deferred compensation arrangements. The change in fair value for trading securities is recorded as a component of interest expense, net on the consolidated statements of earnings.
		Certain of the Company’s investments in equity and other securities are long-term, strategic investments in companies that are in varied stages of development. The Company accounts for these investments under the cost or the equity method of accounting, as appropriate. These investments are included in other assets on the consolidated balance sheets. The valuation of equity and other securities accounted for under the cost method considers all available financial information related to the investee, including valuations based on recent third-party equity investments in the investee. If an unrealized loss for any investment is considered to be other-than-temporary, the loss will be recognized in the consolidated statements of earnings in the period the determination is made. Equity securities accounted for under the equity method are initially recorded at the amount of the Company’s investment and adjusted each period for the Company’s share of the investee’s income or loss and dividends paid. Equity securities accounted for under both the cost and equity methods are reviewed quarterly for changes in circumstance or the occurrence of events that suggest the Company’s investment may not be recoverable. See Note 5 for discussion of the gains and losses recognized on equity and other securities.
Accounts Receivable	'	'
		Accounts Receivable    The Company grants credit to customers in the normal course of business, but generally does not require collateral or any other security to support its receivables. The Company maintains an allowance for doubtful accounts for potential credit losses. Uncollectible accounts are written off against the allowance when it is deemed that a customer account is uncollectible.
Inventories	'	'
		Inventories    Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or market, with cost determined on a first-in, first-out basis. Inventory balances are as follows:
		(in millions)	April 25,		April 26,
			2014		2013
		Finished goods	$	1,196	$	1,174
		Work in process		247		248
		Raw materials		282		290
		Total	$	1,725	$	1,712
Property, Plant, and Equipment	'	'
		Property, Plant, and Equipment    Property, plant, and equipment is stated at cost. Additions and improvements that extend the lives of the assets are capitalized while expenditures for repairs and maintenance are expensed as incurred. Depreciation is provided using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the various assets.
Goodwill	'	'
		Goodwill    Goodwill is the excess of the purchase price (consideration) over the estimated fair value of net assets, including in-process research and development (IPR&D), of acquired businesses. In accordance with U.S. GAAP, goodwill is not amortized. The Company assesses the impairment of goodwill annually in the third quarter and whenever an event occurs or circumstances change that would indicate the carrying amount may be impaired. Impairment testing for goodwill is done at a reporting unit level. An impairment loss is recognized when the carrying amount of the reporting unit’s net assets exceed the estimated fair value of the reporting unit. The estimated fair value is determined using a discounted future cash flow analysis.
Other Intangible Assets	'	'
		Other Intangible Assets    Other intangible assets include patents, trademarks, purchased technology, and IPR&D (since April 25, 2009). Intangible assets with a definite life are amortized on a straight-line or accelerated basis, as appropriate, with estimated useful lives ranging from three to 20 years. Intangible assets with a definite life are tested for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an intangible asset (asset group) may not be recoverable. Indefinite-lived intangible assets are tested for impairment annually in the third quarter and whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount may be impaired. Impairment is calculated as the excess of the asset’s carrying value over its fair value. Fair value is generally determined using a discounted future cash flow analysis.
IPR&D	'	'
		IPR&D    During fiscal year 2010, the Company adopted authoritative guidance related to business combinations. Subsequent to the adoption of this guidance, IPR&D acquired in a business combination is capitalized at its fair value as an indefinite-lived intangible asset. Prior to the adoption of this guidance, IPR&D was immediately expensed. The adoption of the authoritative guidance did not change the requirement to expense IPR&D immediately with respect to asset acquisitions. IPR&D charges are included within acquisition-related items in the consolidated statements of earnings. IPR&D has an indefinite life and is not amortized until completion and development of the project, at which time the IPR&D becomes an amortizable asset. If the related project is not completed in a timely manner or the project is terminated or abandoned, the Company may have an impairment related to the IPR&D, calculated as the excess of the asset’s carrying value over its fair value.
		The Company’s policy defines IPR&D as the fair value of those projects for which the related products have not received regulatory approval and have no alternative future use. Determining the fair value of IPR&D acquired as part of a business combination requires the Company to make significant estimates. The fair value assigned to IPR&D is determined by estimating the future cash flows of each project or technology and discounting the net cash flows back to their present values. The discount rate used is determined at the time of measurement in accordance with accepted valuation methodologies. These methodologies include consideration of the risk of the project not achieving commercial feasibility.
		At the time of acquisition, the Company expects that all acquired IPR&D will reach technological feasibility, but there can be no assurance that the commercial viability of these products will actually be achieved. The nature of the efforts to develop the acquired technologies into commercially viable products consists principally of planning, designing, and conducting clinical trials necessary to obtain regulatory approvals. The risks associated with achieving commercialization include, but are not limited to, delay or failure to obtain regulatory approvals to conduct clinical trials, delay or failure to obtain required market clearances, or delays or issues with patent issuance, or validity and litigation. If commercial viability were not achieved, the Company would likely look to other alternatives to provide these therapies.
Contingent Consideration	'	'
		Contingent Consideration    During fiscal year 2010, as mentioned above, the Company adopted authoritative guidance related to business combinations. Under this guidance, the Company must recognize contingent consideration at fair value at the acquisition date. Prior to the adoption of this guidance, contingent consideration was not included on the balance sheet and was recorded as incurred. The acquisition date fair value is measured based on the consideration expected to be transferred (probability-weighted), discounted back to present value. The discount rate used is determined at the time of measurement in accordance with accepted valuation methodologies. The fair value of the contingent consideration is remeasured at the estimated fair value at each reporting period with the change in fair value recognized as income or expense within acquisition-related items in the consolidated statements of earnings. Therefore, any changes in the fair value will impact the Company’s earnings in such reporting period thereby resulting in potential variability in the Company’s earnings until contingencies are resolved.
Warranty Obligation	'	'
		Warranty Obligation    The Company offers a warranty on various products. The Company estimates the costs that may be incurred under its warranties and records a liability in the amount of such costs at the time the product is sold. Factors that affect the Company’s warranty liability include the number of units sold, historical and anticipated rates of warranty claims, and cost per claim. The Company periodically assesses the adequacy of its recorded warranty liabilities and adjusts the amounts as necessary. The amount of the reserve recorded is equal to the net costs to repair or otherwise satisfy the claim. The Company includes the warranty obligation in other accrued expenses and other long-term liabilities on the Company’s consolidated balance sheets. The Company includes the covered costs associated with field actions, if any, in cost of products sold in the Company’s consolidated statements of earnings.
Self-Insurance	'	'
		Self-Insurance    It is the Company’s policy to self-insure the vast majority of its insurable risks including medical and dental costs, disability coverage, physical loss to property, business interruptions, workers’ compensation, comprehensive general, and product liability. Insurance coverage is obtained for those risks required to be insured by law or contract. The Company uses claims data and historical experience, as applicable, to estimate liabilities associated with the exposures that the Company has self-insured. Based on historical loss trends, the Company believes that its self-insurance program accruals and its existing insurance coverage will be adequate to cover future losses. Historical trends, however, may not be indicative of future losses. These losses could have a material adverse impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.
Retirement Benefit Plan Assumptions	'	'
		Retirement Benefit Plan Assumptions    The Company sponsors various retirement benefit plans, including defined benefit pension plans (pension benefits), post-retirement medical plans (post-retirement benefits), defined contribution savings plans, and termination indemnity plans, covering substantially all U.S. employees and many employees outside the U.S. Pension benefit costs include assumptions for the discount rate, retirement age, compensation rate increases, and the expected return on plan assets. Post-retirement medical benefit costs include assumptions for the discount rate, retirement age, expected return on plan assets, and health care cost trend rate assumptions.
		The Company evaluates the assumptions, including discount rate, retirement age, compensation rate increases, expected return on plan assets, and health care cost trend assumptions of its pension benefits and post-retirement benefits annually. In evaluating these assumptions, many factors are considered, including an evaluation of assumptions made by other companies, historical assumptions compared to actual results, current market conditions, asset allocations, and the views of leading financial advisors and economists. In evaluating the expected retirement age assumption, the Company considers the retirement ages of past employees eligible for pension and medical benefits together with expectations of future retirement ages. Refer to Note 14 for additional information regarding the Company’s retirement benefit plans.
Revenue Recognition	'	'
		Revenue Recognition    The Company sells its products primarily through a direct sales force in the U.S. and a combination of direct sales representatives and independent distributors in international markets. The Company recognizes revenue when title to the goods and risk of loss transfers to customers, provided there are no material remaining performance obligations required of the Company or any matters requiring customer acceptance. In cases where the Company utilizes distributors or ships product directly to the end user, it recognizes revenue upon shipment provided all revenue recognition criteria have been met. A portion of the Company’s revenue is generated from inventory maintained at hospitals or with field representatives. For these products, revenue is recognized at the time the product has been used or implanted. The Company records estimated sales returns, discounts, and rebates as a reduction of net sales in the same period revenue is recognized.
		For multiple-element arrangements, the Company allocates arrangement consideration to the deliverables by use of the relative selling price method. The selling price used for each deliverable is based on vendor–specific objective evidence (VSOE) if available, third–party evidence (TPE) if VSOE is not available, or best estimated selling price (BESP) if neither VSOE nor TPE is available. BESP is determined in a manner consistent with that used to establish the price to sell the deliverable on a standalone basis.
		Shipping and Handling    Shipping and handling costs incurred were $194 million, $182 million, and $167 million in fiscal years 2014, 2013, and 2012, respectively, and are included in selling, general, and administrative expense in the consolidated statements of earnings.
Shipping and Handling	'	'
		Shipping and Handling    Shipping and handling costs incurred were $194 million, $182 million, and $167 million in fiscal years 2014, 2013, and 2012, respectively, and are included in selling, general, and administrative expense in the consolidated statements of earnings.
Research and Development	'	'
		Research and Development    Research and development costs are expensed when incurred. Research and development costs include costs of all basic research activities as well as other research, engineering, and technical effort required to develop a new product or service or make significant improvement to an existing product or manufacturing process. Research and development costs also include pre-approval regulatory and clinical trial expenses.
Other Expense, Net	'	'
		Other Expense, Net    Other expense, net includes royalty income and expense, realized equity security gains and losses, realized foreign currency transaction and derivative gains and losses, impairment charges on equity securities, the Puerto Rico excise tax, and the U.S. medical device excise tax.
Stock-Based Compensation	'	'
		Stock-Based Compensation    The Company’s compensation programs include share-based payments. All awards under share-based payment programs are accounted for at fair value and these fair values are generally amortized on a straight-line basis over the vesting terms into cost of products sold, research and development expense, and selling, general, and administrative expense in the consolidated statements of earnings, as appropriate. Refer to Note 12 for additional information.
Foreign Currency Translation	'	'
		Foreign Currency Translation    Assets and liabilities of non-U.S. dollar functional currency entities are translated to U.S. dollars at period-end exchange rates, and the resulting gains and losses arising from the translation of those net assets are recorded as a cumulative translation adjustment, a component of accumulated other comprehensive loss on the consolidated balance sheets. Elements of the consolidated statements of earnings are translated at average currency exchange rates in effect during the period and foreign currency transaction gains and losses are included in other expense, net in the consolidated statements of earnings.
Comprehensive Income and Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss	'	'
		Comprehensive Income and Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss    In addition to net earnings, comprehensive income includes changes in currency exchange rate translation adjustments, unrealized gains and losses on currency exchange rate derivative contracts and interest rate derivative instruments qualifying and designated as cash flow hedges, net changes in retirement obligation funded status, and unrealized gains and losses on available-for-sale marketable securities. Taxes are not provided on cumulative translation adjustments as substantially all translation adjustments relate to earnings that are intended to be indefinitely reinvested outside the U.S.
Derivatives	'	'
		Derivatives    U.S. GAAP requires companies to recognize all derivatives as assets and liabilities on the balance sheet and to measure the instruments at fair value through earnings unless the derivative qualifies as a hedge. If the derivative is a hedge, depending on the nature of the hedge and hedge effectiveness, changes in the fair value of the derivative will either be recognized currently through earnings or recorded in other comprehensive income (loss) until the hedged item is recognized in earnings upon settlement/termination. The changes in the fair value of the derivative are intended to offset the change in fair value of the hedged asset, liability, or probable commitment. The Company evaluates hedge effectiveness at inception and on an ongoing basis. If a derivative is no longer expected to be highly effective, hedge accounting is discontinued. Hedge ineffectiveness, if any, is recorded in earnings.
		The Company uses operational and economic hedges, as well as currency exchange rate derivative contracts and interest rate derivative instruments, to manage the impact of currency exchange and interest rate changes on earnings and cash flows. In order to minimize earnings and cash flow volatility resulting from currency exchange rate changes, the Company enters into derivative instruments, principally forward currency exchange rate contracts. These contracts are designed to hedge anticipated foreign currency transactions and changes in the value of specific assets and liabilities. At inception of the forward contract, the derivative is designated as either a freestanding derivative or a cash flow hedge. The primary currencies of the derivative instruments are the Euro and Japanese Yen. The Company does not enter into currency exchange rate derivative contracts for speculative purposes. All derivative instruments are recorded at fair value on the consolidated balance sheets, as a component of prepaid expenses and other current assets, other assets, other accrued expenses, or other long-term liabilities depending upon the gain or loss position of the contract and contract maturity date.
		Forward contracts designated as cash flow hedges are designed to hedge the variability of cash flows associated with forecasted transactions denominated in a foreign currency that will take place in the future. For derivative instruments that are designated and qualify as a cash flow hedge, the effective portion of the gain or loss on the derivative instrument is reported as a component of accumulated other comprehensive loss. The effective portion of the gain or loss on the derivative instrument is reclassified into earnings and is included in other expense, net or cost of products sold in the consolidated statements of earnings, depending on the underlying transaction that is being hedged, in the same period or periods during which the hedged transaction affects earnings. The cash flows from these contracts are reported as operating activities in the consolidated statements of cash flows.
		The Company uses freestanding derivative forward contracts to offset its exposure to the change in value of specific foreign currency denominated assets and liabilities. These derivatives are not designated as hedges, and therefore, changes in the value of these forward contracts are recognized in earnings, thereby offsetting the current earnings effect of the related change in value of foreign currency denominated assets and liabilities.
		The Company uses forward starting interest rate derivative instruments designated as cash flow hedges to manage the exposure to interest rate volatility with regard to future issuances of fixed-rate debt. The effective portion of the gains or losses on the forward starting interest rate derivative instruments that are designated and qualify as cash flow hedges are reported as a component of accumulated other comprehensive loss. Beginning in the period in which the planned debt issuance occurs and the related derivative instruments are terminated, the effective portion of the gains or losses are then reclassified into interest expense, net over the term of the related debt. Any portion of the gains or losses that are determined to be ineffective are immediately recognized in interest expense, net. The cash flows from these contracts are reported as operating activities in the consolidated statements of cash flows.
		The Company uses interest rate derivative instruments designated as fair value hedges to manage the exposure to interest rate movements and to reduce borrowing costs by converting fixed-rate debt into floating-rate debt. Under these agreements, the Company agrees to exchange, at specified intervals, the difference between fixed and floating interest amounts calculated by reference to agreed-upon notional principal amounts. Changes in the fair value of the derivative instrument are recorded in interest expense, net, and are offset by changes in the fair value on the underlying debt instrument. The cash flows from these contracts are reported as operating activities in the consolidated statements of cash flows. The gains (losses) from terminated interest rate swap agreements are recorded in long-term debt, increasing (decreasing) the outstanding balances of the debt, and amortized as a reduction (addition) of interest expense, net over the remaining life of the related debt. The cash flows from the termination of the interest rate swap agreements are reported as operating activities in the consolidated statements of cash flows.
		In addition, the Company has collateral credit agreements with its primary derivative counterparties. Under these agreements, either party is required to post eligible collateral when the market value of transactions covered by the agreement exceeds specific thresholds, thus limiting credit exposure for both parties.
Earnings Per Share	'	'
		Earnings Per Share    Basic earnings per share is computed based on the weighted average number of common shares outstanding. Diluted earnings per share is computed based on the weighted average number of common shares outstanding, increased by the number of additional shares that would have been outstanding had the potentially dilutive common shares been issued, and reduced by the number of shares the Company could have repurchased from the proceeds from issuance of the potentially dilutive shares. Potentially dilutive shares of common stock include stock options and other stock-based awards granted under stock-based compensation plans and shares committed to be purchased under the employee stock purchase plan.
New Accounting Standards	'	'
		New Accounting Standards
		Recently Adopted
		In December 2011 and January 2013, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued new accounting guidance related to disclosures on offsetting assets and liabilities on the balance sheet. This newly issued accounting standard requires an entity to disclose both gross and net information about instruments and transactions eligible for offset in the balance sheet as well as instruments and transactions executed under a master netting or similar arrangement and was issued to enable users of financial statements to understand the effects or potential effects of those arrangements on its financial position. The Company retrospectively adopted this accounting guidance in the first quarter of fiscal year 2014. The required disclosures are included in Note 9. Since the accounting guidance only requires disclosure, its adoption did not have a material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.
		In July 2012, the FASB updated the accounting guidance related to annual and interim indefinite-lived intangible asset impairment testing. The updated accounting guidance allows entities to first assess qualitative factors before performing a quantitative assessment of the fair value of indefinite-lived intangible assets. If it is determined on the basis of qualitative factors that the fair value of indefinite-lived intangible assets is more likely than not less than the carrying amount, the existing quantitative impairment test is required. Otherwise, no further impairment testing is required. The Company adopted this accounting guidance in the first quarter of fiscal year 2014 and its adoption did not have a material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.
		In February 2013, the FASB expanded the disclosure requirements with respect to changes in accumulated other comprehensive income (AOCI). Under this new guidance, companies are required to disclose the amount of income (or loss) reclassified out of AOCI to each respective line item on the statements of earnings where net income is presented. The guidance allows companies to elect whether to disclose the reclassification either in the notes to the financial statements or parenthetically on the face of the financial statements. In the first quarter of fiscal year 2014, the Company prospectively adopted this guidance. The required disclosures are included in Note 16. Since the accounting guidance only impacts disclosure requirements, its adoption did not have a material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.
		Not Yet Adopted
		In March 2013, the FASB issued amended guidance on a parent company’s accounting for the CTA recorded in AOCI associated with a foreign entity. The amendment requires a parent to release into net income the CTA related to its investment in a foreign entity when it either sells a part or all of its investment, or no longer holds a controlling financial interest, in a subsidiary or group of assets within a foreign entity. This accounting guidance is effective for the Company beginning in the first quarter of fiscal year 2015. Subsequent to adoption, this amended guidance would impact the Company’s financial position and results of operations prospectively in the instance of an event or transaction described above.
		In July 2013, the FASB issued amended guidance on the financial statement presentation of an unrecognized tax benefit when a net operating loss carryforward, similar tax loss, or tax credit carryforward exists. The guidance requires an unrecognized tax benefit, or a portion of an unrecognized tax benefit, to be presented as a reduction of a deferred tax asset when a net operating loss carryforward, similar tax loss, or tax credit carryforward exists, with certain exceptions. This accounting guidance is effective prospectively for the Company beginning in the first quarter of fiscal year 2015. The adoption is not expected to have a material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.
		In April 2014, the FASB issued amended guidance for reporting discontinued operations. The amended guidance changes the criteria for determining when the results of operations are to be reported as discontinued operations and expands the related disclosure requirements. The guidance defines a discontinued operation as a disposal of a component or group of components that is disposed of or classified as held for sale which is a strategic shift that has, or will have, a major effect on financial position and results of operations. This accounting guidance is effective prospectively for the Company beginning in the first quarter of fiscal year 2016, with early adoption permitted. The adoption is not expected to have a material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.
		In May 2014, the FASB issued amended revenue recognition guidance to clarify the principles for recognizing revenue from contracts with customers. The guidance requires an entity to recognize revenue to depict the transfer of goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which an entity expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. The guidance also requires expanded disclosures relating to the nature, amount, timing, and uncertainty of revenue and cash flows arising from contracts with customers. Additionally, qualitative and quantitative disclosures are required about customer contracts, significant judgments and changes in judgments, and assets recognized from the costs to obtain or fulfill a contract. This accounting guidance is effective for the Company beginning in the first quarter of fiscal year 2018 using one of two prescribed retrospective methods. Early adoption is not permitted. The Company is evaluating the impact of the amended revenue recognition guidance on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.

Acquisitions_and_AcquisitionRe1

Acquisitions and Acquisition-Related Items (Tables)	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Jul. 25, 2014								Apr. 25, 2014
Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition	'								'
	The fair values of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed are as follows:
	(in millions)
	Current assets	$	6
	Property, plant, and equipment		1
	Intangible assets		94
	Goodwill		132
	Total assets acquired		233
	Current liabilities		4
	Long-term deferred tax liabilities, net		7
	Total liabilities assumed		11
	Net assets acquired	$	222
Fair Value Inputs, Liabilities, Quantitative Information	'								'
									The recurring Level 3 fair value measurements of contingent consideration include the following significant unobservable inputs:
	The recurring Level 3 fair value measurements of contingent consideration include the following significant unobservable inputs:
									($ in millions)	Fair Value at			Valuation		Unobservable Input	Range
										April 25, 2014			Technique
	($ in millions)	Fair Value at			Valuation		Unobservable Input	Range							Discount rate	13.5% - 24%
		July 25, 2014			Technique				Revenue-based payments	$	43		Discounted cash flow		Probability of payment	100%
							Discount rate	13.5% - 24%							Projected fiscal year of payment	2015 - 2019
	Revenue-based payments	$	62		Discounted cash flow		Probability of payment	100%							Discount rate	5.50%
							Projected fiscal year of payment	2015 - 2019	Product development-	$	25		Discounted cash flow		Probability of payment	75% - 100%
							Discount rate	5.50%	based payments						Projected fiscal year of payment	2015 - 2018
	Product development-based payments	$	25		Discounted cash flow		Probability of payment	75%
							Projected fiscal year of payment	2018
Reconciliation of Beginning and Ending Balances of Contingent Consideration Associated with Acquisitions	'								'
									The following table provides a reconciliation of the beginning and ending balances of contingent consideration associated with acquisitions subsequent to April 24, 2009:
	The following table provides a reconciliation of the beginning and ending balances of contingent consideration associated with acquisitions subsequent to April 24, 2009:
										Fiscal Year
									(in millions)	2014			2013
		Three months ended							Beginning Balance	$	142		$	231
	(in millions)	July 25, 2014			July 26, 2013				Purchase price contingent consideration		65			3
	Beginning Balance	$	68		$	142			Contingent consideration payments		(1	)		(30	)
	Purchase price contingent consideration		23			—			Change in fair value of contingent consideration		(138	)		(62	)
	Contingent consideration payments		(5	)		(1	)
	Change in fair value of contingent consideration		1			(96	)		Ending Balance	$	68		$	142
	Ending Balance	$	87		$	45
TYRX	'								'
Schedule of Recognized Identified Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed	'								'
									The fair values of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed are as follows:
									(in millions)
									Current assets	$	6
									Property, plant, and equipment		1
									Intangible assets		94
									Goodwill		132
									Total assets acquired		233
									Current liabilities		4
									Long-term deferred tax liabilities, net		7
									Total liabilities assumed		11
									Net assets acquired	$	222
Cardiocom	'								'
Schedule of Recognized Identified Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed	'								'
									The fair values of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed are as follows:
									(in millions)
									Current assets	$	14
									Property, plant, and equipment		7
									Intangible assets		61
									Goodwill		123
									Total assets acquired		205
									Current liabilities		12
									Total liabilities assumed		12
									Net assets acquired	$	193
China Kanghui Holdings	'								'
Schedule of Recognized Identified Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed	'								'
									The fair values of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed are as follows:
									(in millions)
									Current assets	$	106
									Property, plant, and equipment		56
									Intangible assets		341
									Goodwill		409
									Other assets		11
									Total assets acquired		923
									Current liabilities		29
									Long-term deferred tax liabilities, net		77
									Other long-term liabilities		1
									Total liabilities assumed		107
									Net assets acquired	$	816
Salient	'								'
Schedule of Recognized Identified Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed	'								'
									The fair values of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed are as follows:
									(in millions)
									Current assets	$	20
									Property, plant, and equipment		11
									IPR&D		44
									Other intangible assets		154
									Goodwill		348
									Other assets		1
									Total assets acquired		578
									Current liabilities		43
									Long-term deferred tax liabilities, net		38
									Total liabilities assumed		81
									Net assets acquired	$	497
PEAK	'								'
Schedule of Recognized Identified Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed	'								'
									The fair values of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed are as follows:
									(in millions)
									Current assets	$	5
									Property, plant, and equipment		5
									Intangible assets		74
									Goodwill		56
									Total assets acquired		140
									Current liabilities		10
									Long-term deferred tax liabilities, net		17
									Total liabilities assumed		27
									Net assets acquired	$	113

Restructuring_Charges_Net_Tabl

Restructuring Charges, Net (Tables)	3 Months Ended													12 Months Ended
	Jul. 25, 2014													Apr. 25, 2014
Fiscal Year 2014 Initiative	'													'
Schedule of Restructuring Reserve	'													'
														A summary of the activity related to the fiscal year 2014 initiative is presented below:
	A summary of the activity related to the fiscal year 2014 initiative is presented below:
															Fiscal Year 2014 Initiative
														(in millions)	Employee			Asset			Other			Total
	(in millions)	Employee			Asset			Other			Total				Termination			Write-downs			Costs
		Termination			Write-downs			Costs							Costs
		Costs												Balance as of April 26, 2013	$	—		$	—		$	—		$	—
	Balance as of April 25, 2014	$	64		$	—		$	11		$	75		Restructuring charges		65			26			25			116
	Restructuring charges		1			9			28			38		Payments/write-downs		(1	)		(26	)		(14	)		(41	)
	Payments/write-downs		(17	)		(9	)		(19	)		(45	)
	Reversal of excess accrual		(6	)		—			—			(6	)	Balance as of April 25, 2014	$	64		$	—		$	11		$	75
	Balance as of July 25, 2014	$	42		$	—		$	20		$	62
Fiscal Year 2013 Initiative	'													'
Schedule of Restructuring Reserve	'													'
														A summary of the activity related to the fiscal year 2013 initiative is presented below:
	A summary of the activity related to the fiscal year 2013 initiative is presented below:
															Fiscal Year 2013 Initiative
														(in millions)	Employee			Asset			Other			Total
	(in millions)	Employee			Other			Total							Termination			Write-downs			Costs
		Termination			Costs										Costs
		Costs												Balance as of April 27, 2012	$	—		$	—		$	—		$	—
	Balance as of April 25, 2014	$	23		$	1		$	24					Restructuring charges		150			13			29			192
	Payments		(5	)		(1	)		(6	)				Payments/write-downs		(3	)		(13	)		(6	)		(22	)
	Reversal of excess accrual		(2	)		—			(2	)
														Balance as of April 26, 2013	$	147		$	—		$	23		$	170
	Balance as of July 25, 2014	$	16		$	—		$	16					Restructuring charges		—			—			18			18
														Payments		(79	)		—			(39	)		(118	)
														Reversal of excess accrual		(45	)		—			(1	)		(46	)
														Balance as of April 25, 2014	$	23		$	—		$	1		$	24
Fiscal Year 2012 Initiative	'													'
Schedule of Restructuring Reserve	'													'
														A summary of the activity related to the fiscal year 2012 initiative is presented below:
															Fiscal Year 2012 Initiative
														(in millions)	Employee			Asset			Other			Total
															Termination			Write-downs			Costs
															Costs
														Balance as of April 29, 2011	$	—		$	—		$	—		$	—
														Restructuring charges		66			9			43			118
														Payments/write-downs		(2	)		(9	)		(16	)		(27	)
														Balance as of April 27, 2012	$	64		$	—		$	27		$	91
														Payments		(54	)		—			(23	)		(77	)
														Reversal of excess accrual		(10	)		—			—			(10	)
														Balance as of April 26, 2013	$	—		$	—		$	4		$	4
														Payments		—			—			(4	)		(4	)
														Balance as of April 25, 2014	$	—		$	—		$	—		$	—

Investments_Tables

Investments (Tables)	3 Months Ended														12 Months Ended
	Jul. 25, 2014														Apr. 25, 2014
Text Block [Abstract]	'														'
Information Regarding Short-term and Long-term Investments	'														'
															Information regarding the Company’s investments at April 25, 2014 is as follows:
	Information regarding Medtronic’s investments at July 25, 2014 is as follows:
															(in millions)		Cost			Unrealized			Unrealized			Fair Value
																				Gains			Losses
	(in millions)		Cost			Unrealized			Unrealized			Fair Value			Available-for-sale securities:
						Gains			Losses						Corporate debt securities		$	5,504		$	55		$	(17	)	$	5,542
	Available-for-sale securities:														Auction rate securities			109			—			(12	)		97
	Corporate debt securities		$	5,429		$	65		$	(10	)	$	5,484		Mortgage-backed securities			1,337			7			(8	)		1,336
	Auction rate securities			109			—			(10	)		99		U.S. government and agency securities			3,138			7			(29	)		3,116
	Mortgage-backed securities			1,252			10			(8	)		1,254		Foreign government and agency securities			67			—			—			67
	U.S. government and agency securities			2,748			7			(22	)		2,733		Certificates of deposit			54			—			—			54
	Foreign government and agency securities			78			—			—			78		Other asset-backed securities			540			2			—			542
	Certificates of deposit			71			—			—			71		Debt funds			2,143			9			(29	)		2,123
	Other asset-backed securities			497			1			—			498		Marketable equity securities			47			15			(13	)		49
	Debt funds			2,446			48			(8	)		2,486		Trading securities:
	Marketable equity securities			52			14			(17	)		49		Exchange-traded funds			54			13			—			67
	Trading securities:														Cost method, equity method, and other investments			666			—			—			NA
	Exchange-traded funds			54			15			—			69
	Cost method, equity method, and other investments			618			—			—			NA		Total investments		$	13,659		$	108		$	(108	)	$	12,993
	Total		$	13,354		$	160		$	(75	)	$	12,821
															Information regarding the Company’s investments at April 26, 2013 is as follows:
	Information regarding Medtronic’s investments at April 25, 2014 is as follows:
															(in millions)		Cost			Unrealized			Unrealized			Fair Value
																				Gains			Losses
															Available-for-sale securities:
	(in millions)		Cost			Unrealized			Unrealized			Fair Value			Corporate debt securities		$	4,587		$	78		$	(4	)	$	4,661
						Gains			Losses						Auction rate securities			118			—			(15	)		103
	Available-for-sale securities:														Mortgage-backed securities			1,050			8			(5	)		1,053
	Corporate debt securities		$	5,504		$	55		$	(17	)	$	5,542		U.S. government and agency securities			3,882			17			(1	)		3,898
	Auction rate securities			109			—			(12	)		97		Foreign government and agency securities			38			—			—			38
	Mortgage-backed securities			1,337			7			(8	)		1,336		Certificates of deposit			6			—			—			6
	U.S. government and agency securities			3,138			7			(29	)		3,116		Other asset-backed securities			539			2			—			541
	Foreign government and agency securities			67			—			—			67		Marketable equity securities			82			75			(2	)		155
	Certificates of deposit			54			—			—			54		Trading securities:
	Other asset-backed securities			540			2			—			542		Exchange-traded funds			45			5			—			50
	Debt funds			2,143			9			(29	)		2,123		Cost method, equity method, and other investments			549			—			—			NA
	Marketable equity securities			47			15			(13	)		49
	Trading securities:														Total investments		$	10,896		$	185		$	(27	)	$	10,505
	Exchange-traded funds			54			13			—			67
	Cost method, equity method, and other investments			666			—			—			NA
	Total		$	13,659		$	108		$	(108	)	$	12,993
Information Regarding Available-for-sale and Trading Securities	'														'
															Information regarding the Company’s consolidated balance sheets presentation at April 25, 2014 and April 26, 2013 is as follows:
	Information regarding Medtronic’s condensed consolidated balance sheet presentation at July 25, 2014 and April 25, 2014 is as follows:
																	April 25, 2014						April 26, 2013
															(in millions)		Investments			Other Assets			Investments			Other Assets
			July 25, 2014						April 25, 2014						Available-for-sale securities		$	12,771		$	155		$	10,161		$	294
	(in millions)		Investments			Other Assets			Investments			Other Assets			Trading securities			67			—			50			—
	Available-for-sale securities		$	12,557		$	195		$	12,771		$	155		Cost method, equity method, and other investments			—			666			—			549
	Trading securities			69			—			67			—
	Cost method, equity method, and other investments			—			618			—			666		Total		$	12,838		$	821		$	10,211		$	843
	Total		$	12,626		$	813		$	12,838		$	821
Gross Unrealized Losses and Fair Values of Available-for-sale Securities that Have Been in a Continuous Unrealized Loss Position Deemed to be Temporary for Less than 12 Months and for More than 12 months, Aggregated by Investment Category	'														'
															The following tables show the gross unrealized losses and fair values of the Company’s available-for-sale securities that have been in a continuous unrealized loss position deemed to be temporary, aggregated by investment category as of April 25, 2014 and April 26, 2013:
	The following tables show the gross unrealized losses and fair values of Medtronic’s available-for-sale securities that have been in a continuous unrealized loss position deemed to be temporary, aggregated by investment category as of July 25, 2014 and April 25, 2014:
																	April 25, 2014
																	Less than 12 Months						More than 12 Months
			July 25, 2014												(in millions)		Fair Value			Unrealized			Fair Value			Unrealized
			Less than 12 months						More than 12 months											Losses						Losses
	(in millions)		Fair Value			Unrealized			Fair Value			Unrealized			Corporate debt securities		$	1,601		$	(14	)	$	50		$	(3	)
						Losses						Losses			Auction rate securities			—			—			97			(12	)
	Corporate debt securities		$	1,200		$	(5	)	$	273		$	(5	)	Mortgage-backed securities			682			(7	)		28			(1	)
	Auction rate securities			—			—			99			(10	)	U.S. government and agency securities			1,500			(27	)		46			(2	)
	Mortgage-backed securities			353			(3	)		333			(5	)	Debt funds			1,224			(29	)		—			—
	U.S. government and agency securities			754			(1	)		784			(21	)	Marketable equity securities			25			(13	)		—			—
	Debt funds			454			(1	)		141			(7	)
	Marketable equity securities			21			(17	)		—			—		Total		$	5,032		$	(90	)	$	221		$	(18	)
	Total		$	2,782		$	(27	)	$	1,630		$	(48	)
																	26-Apr-13
																	Less than 12 Months						More than 12 Months
															(in millions)		Fair Value			Unrealized			Fair Value			Unrealized
																				Losses						Losses
			April 25, 2014												Corporate debt securities		$	544		$	(1	)	$	13		$	(3	)
			Less than 12 months						More than 12 months						Auction rate securities			—			—			103			(15	)
	(in millions)		Fair Value			Unrealized			Fair Value			Unrealized			Mortgage-backed securities			195			(1	)		44			(4	)
						Losses						Losses			U.S. government and agency securities			291			(1	)		—			—
	Corporate debt securities		$	1,601		$	(14	)	$	50		$	(3	)	Marketable equity securities			14			(2	)		—			—
	Auction rate securities			—			—			97			(12	)
	Mortgage-backed securities			682			(7	)		28			(1	)	Total		$	1,044		$	(5	)	$	160		$	(22	)
	U.S. government and agency securities			1,500			(27	)		46			(2	)
	Debt funds			1,224			(29	)		—			—
	Marketable equity securities			25			(13	)		—			—
	Total		$	5,032		$	(90	)	$	221		$	(18	)
Activity Related to Short-term and Long-term Investment Portfolio	'														'
	Activity related to Medtronic’s investment portfolio is as follows:														Activity related to the Company’s investment portfolio is as follows:
			Three months ended														Fiscal Year
			July 25, 2014						July 26, 2013								2014						2013						2012
	(in millions)		Debt (a)			Equity (b)			Debt (a)			Equity (b)			(in millions)		Debt (a)			Equity (b)			Debt (a)			Equity (b)			Debt (a)			Equity (b) (c)
	Proceeds from sales		$	1,830		$	23		$	2,163		$	32		Proceeds from sales		$	7,991		$	120		$	10,350		$	161		$	7,675		$	113
	Gross realized gains			11			19			6			18		Gross realized gains		$	15		$	69		$	59		$	94		$	52		$	93
	Gross realized losses			(3	)		—			(5	)		—		Gross realized losses		$	(12	)	$	—		$	(17	)	$	—		$	(16	)	$	—
	Impairment losses recognized			—			(1	)		—			—		Impairment losses recognized		$	(1	)	$	(9	)	$	—		$	(21	)	$	(2	)	$	(10	)
	(a)	Includes available-for-sale debt securities.
	(b)	Includes marketable equity securities, cost method, equity method, exchange-traded funds, and other investments.													(a)	Includes available-for-sale debt securities.
															(b)	Includes marketable equity securities, cost method, equity method, exchange-traded funds, and other investments.
															(c)	As a result of the Salient and PEAK acquisitions that occurred during fiscal year 2012, the Company recognized a non-cash gain of $38 million on its previously-held minority investments.
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities Contractual Maturities	'														'
															The April 25, 2014 balance of available-for-sale debt securities, excluding debt funds which have no single maturity date, by contractual maturity is shown in the following table. Within the table, maturities of mortgage-backed securities have been allocated based upon timing of estimated cash flows, assuming no change in the current interest rate environment. Actual maturities may differ from contractual maturities because the issuers of the securities may have the right to prepay obligations without prepayment penalties.
	Actual maturities may differ from contractual maturities because the issuers of the securities may have the right to prepay obligations without prepayment penalties.
															(in millions)		April 25, 2014
															Due in one year or less		$	1,412
	(in millions)		July 25, 2014												Due after one year through five years			6,368
	Due in one year or less		$	1,426											Due after five years through 10 years			2,859
	Due after one year through five years			5,961											Due after 10 years			115
	Due after five years through ten years			2,689
	Due after ten years			141											Total debt securities		$	10,754
	Total		$	10,217

Fair_Value_Measurements_Tables

Fair Value Measurements (Tables)	3 Months Ended										12 Months Ended
	Jul. 25, 2014										Apr. 25, 2014
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]	'										'
Information by Level for Assets and Liabilities that are Measured at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis	'										'
											The following tables provide information by level for assets and liabilities that are measured at fair value on a recurring basis:
	The following tables provide information by level for assets and liabilities that are measured at fair value on a recurring basis:
												Fair Value			Fair Value Measurements
												as of			Using Inputs Considered as
		Fair Value			Fair Value Measurements						(in millions)	April 25, 2014			Level 1			Level 2			Level 3
		as of			Using Inputs Considered as						Assets:
	(in millions)	July 25, 2014			Level 1		Level 2		Level 3		Corporate debt securities	$	5,542		$	—		$	5,533		$	9
	Assets:										Auction rate securities		97			—			—			97
	Corporate debt securities	$	5,484		$	—	$	5,475	$	9	Mortgage-backed securities		1,336			—			1,336			—
	Auction rate securities		99			—		—		99	U.S. government and agency securities		3,116			1,251			1,865			—
	Mortgage-backed securities		1,254			—		1,254		—	Foreign government and agency securities		67			—			67			—
	U.S. government and agency securities		2,733			1,135		1,598		—	Certificates of deposit		54			—			54			—
	Foreign government and agency securities		78			—		78		—	Other asset-backed securities		542			—			542			—
	Certificates of deposit		71			—		71		—	Debt funds		2,123			—			2,123			—
	Other asset-backed securities		498			—		498		—	Marketable equity securities		49			49			—			—
	Debt funds		2,486			—		2,486		—	Exchange-traded funds		67			67			—			—
	Marketable equity securities		49			49		—		—	Derivative assets		175			89			86			—
	Exchange-traded funds		69			69		—		—
	Derivative assets		176			96		80		—	Total assets	$	13,168		$	1,456		$	11,606		$	106
	Total assets	$	12,997		$	1,349	$	11,540	$	108	Liabilities:
											Derivative liabilities	$	127		$	116		$	11		$	—
	Liabilities:										Contingent consideration associated with acquisitions subsequent to April 24, 2009		68			—			—			68
	Derivative liabilities	$	68		$	68	$	—	$	—
	Contingent consideration associated with acquisitions subsequent to April 24, 2009		87			—		—		87	Total liabilities	$	195		$	116		$	11		$	68
	Total liabilities	$	155		$	68	$	—	$	87		Fair Value			Fair Value Measurements
												as of			Using Inputs Considered as
											(in millions)	April 26, 2013			Level 1			Level 2			Level 3
											Assets:
											Corporate debt securities	$	4,661		$	—		$	4,651		$	10
		Fair Value			Fair Value Measurements						Auction rate securities		103			—			—			103
		as of			Using Inputs Considered as						Mortgage-backed securities		1,053			—			1,039			14
	(in millions)	April 25, 2014			Level 1		Level 2		Level 3		U.S. government and agency securities		3,898			1,833			2,065			—
	Assets:										Foreign government and agency securities		38			—			38			—
	Corporate debt securities	$	5,542		$	—	$	5,533	$	9	Certificates of deposit		6			—			6			—
	Auction rate securities		97			—		—		97	Other asset-backed securities		541			—			541			—
	Mortgage-backed securities		1,336			—		1,336		—	Marketable equity securities		155			155			—			—
	U.S. government and agency securities		3,116			1,251		1,865		—	Exchange-traded funds		50			50			—			—
	Foreign government and agency securities		67			—		67		—	Derivative assets		394			213			181			—
	Certificates of deposit		54			—		54		—
	Other asset-backed securities		542			—		542		—	Total assets	$	10,899		$	2,251		$	8,521		$	127
	Debt funds		2,123			—		2,123		—
	Marketable equity securities		49			49		—		—
	Exchange-traded funds		67			67		—		—	Liabilities:
	Derivative assets		175			89		86		—	Derivative liabilities	$	58		$	40		$	18		$	—
											Contingent consideration associated with acquisitions subsequent to April 24, 2009		142			—			—			142
	Total assets	$	13,168		$	1,456	$	11,606	$	106
											Total liabilities	$	200		$	40		$	18		$	142
	Liabilities:
	Derivative liabilities	$	127		$	116	$	11	$	—
	Contingent consideration associated with acquisitions subsequent to April 24, 2009		68			—		—		68
	Total liabilities	$	195		$	116	$	11	$	68
Fair Value Inputs, Assets, Quantitative Information	'										'
											The following table represents the range of the unobservable inputs utilized in the fair value measurement of the auction rate securities classified as Level 3 as of April 25, 2014:
	The following table represents the range of the unobservable inputs utilized in the fair value measurement of the auction rate securities classified as Level 3 as of July 25, 2014:
												Valuation		Unobservable Input	Range
												Technique			(Weighted Average)
		Valuation		Unobservable Input	Range						Auction rate securities	Discounted cash flow		Years to principal recovery	2 yrs. - 12 yrs. (3 yrs.)
														Illiquidity premium	6%
		Technique			(Weighted Average)
	Auction rate securities	Discounted cash flow		Years to principal recovery Illiquidity premium	2 yrs. - 12 yrs. (3 yrs.) 6%
Reconciliation of Beginning and Ending Balances of Items Measured at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis that Used Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)	'										'
											The following table provides a reconciliation of the beginning and ending balances of items measured at fair value on a recurring basis that used significant unobservable inputs (Level 3):
	The following tables provide a reconciliation of the beginning and ending balances of items measured at fair value on a recurring basis that used significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) for the three months ended July 25, 2014 and July 26, 2013:
											(in millions)	Total Level 3			Corporate debt			Auction rate			Mortgage-			Other asset-
												Investments			securities			securities			backed securities			backed securities
	Three months ended July 25, 2014										Balance as of April 26, 2013	$	127		$	10		$	103		$	14		$	—
	(in millions)	Total Level 3			Corporate debt		Auction rate		Mortgage-		Total realized losses and other-than-temporary impairment losses included in earnings		(5	)		—			(5	)		—			—
		Investments			securities		securities		backed securities		Total unrealized gains included in other comprehensive income		4			—			3			1			—
	Balance as of April 25, 2014	$	106		$	9	$	97	$	—	Settlements		(20	)		(1	)		(4	)		(15	)		—
	Total unrealized gains included in other comprehensive income		2			—		2		—
											Balance as of April 25, 2014	$	106		$	9		$	97		$	—		$	—
	Balance as of July 25, 2014	$	108		$	9	$	99	$	—
	Three months ended July 26, 2013										(in millions)	Total Level 3			Corporate debt			Auction rate			Mortgage-			Other asset-
	(in millions)	Total Level 3			Corporate debt		Auction rate		Mortgage-			Investments			securities			securities			backed securities			backed securities
		Investments			securities		securities		backed securities		Balance as of April 27, 2012	$	172		$	10		$	127		$	29		$	6
	Balance as of April 26, 2013	$	127		$	10	$	103	$	14	Total unrealized gains included in other comprehensive income		11			—			11			—			—
	Total unrealized gains included in other comprehensive income		5			—		4		1	Settlements		(56	)		—			(35	)		(15	)		(6	)
	Balance as of July 26, 2013	$	132		$	10	$	107	$	15	Balance as of April 26, 2013	$	127		$	10		$	103		$	14		$	—

Financing_Arrangements_Tables

Financing Arrangements (Tables)	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Jul. 25, 2014								Apr. 25, 2014
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]	'								'
Schedule of Debt	'								'
									Debt consisted of the following:
	Long-term debt consisted of the following:
												April 25, 2014							April 26, 2013
									(in millions, except interest rates)	Maturity by		Payable				Effective			Payable			Effective
	(in millions, except interest rates)	Maturity by	Payable as of			Payable as of				Fiscal Year						Interest						Interest
		Fiscal Year	July 25, 2014			April 25, 2014										Rate						Rate
	4.750 percent ten-year 2005 senior notes	2016	$	600		$	600		Short-Term Borrowings:
	2.625 percent five-year 2011 senior notes	2016		500			500		Commercial paper	2014		$	—				—		$	125			0.21	%
	Floating rate three-year 2014 senior notes	2017		250			250		Capital lease obligations	2014-2015			14				3.33	%		14			3.3	%
	0.875 percent three-year 2014 senior notes	2017		250			250		Bank borrowings	2014-2015			337				0.35	%		221			0.57	%
	1.375 percent five-year 2013 senior notes	2018		1,000			1,000		3.000 percent five-year 2010 senior notes	2015			1,250				3	%		—			—
	5.600 percent ten-year 2009 senior notes	2019		400			400		Interest rate swaps	2015			12				—			—			—
	4.450 percent ten-year 2010 senior notes	2020		1,250			1,250		4.500 percent five-year 2009 senior notes	2014			—				—			550			4.5	%
	4.125 percent ten-year 2011 senior notes	2021		500			500
	3.125 percent ten-year 2012 senior notes	2022		675			675		Total Short-Term Borrowings			$	1,613						$	910
	2.750 percent ten-year 2013 senior notes	2023		1,250			1,250
	3.625 percent ten-year 2014 senior notes	2024		850			850		Long-Term Debt:
	6.500 percent thirty-year 2009 senior notes	2039		300			300		3.000 percent five-year 2010 senior notes	2015		$	—				—		$	1,250			3	%
	5.550 percent thirty-year 2010 senior notes	2040		500			500		4.750 percent ten-year 2005 senior notes	2016			600				4.76	%		600			4.76	%
	4.500 percent thirty-year 2012 senior notes	2042		400			400		2.625 percent five-year 2011 senior notes	2016			500				2.72	%		500			2.72	%
	4.000 percent thirty-year 2013 senior notes	2043		750			750		Floating rate three-year 2014 senior notes	2017			250				0.32	%		—			—
	4.625 percent thirty-year 2014 senior notes	2044		650			650		0.875 percent three-year 2014 senior notes	2017			250				0.91	%		—			—
	Interest rate swaps	2016-2022		71			56		1.375 percent five-year 2013 senior notes	2018			1,000				1.41	%		1,000			1.41	%
	Deferred gains from interest rate swap terminations	—		15			20		5.600 percent ten-year 2009 senior notes	2019			400				5.61	%		400			5.61	%
	Capital lease obligations	2016-2025		136			139		4.450 percent ten-year 2010 senior notes	2020			1,250				4.47	%		1,250			4.47	%
	Discount	2017-2044		(24	)		(25	)	4.125 percent ten-year 2011 senior notes	2021			500				4.19	%		500			4.19	%
									3.125 percent ten-year 2012 senior notes	2022			675				3.16	%		675			3.16	%
	Total Long-Term Debt		$	10,323		$	10,315		2.750 percent ten-year 2013 senior notes	2023			1,250				2.78	%		1,250			2.78	%
									3.625 percent ten-year 2014 senior notes	2024			850				3.65	%		—			—
									6.500 percent thirty-year 2009 senior notes	2039			300				6.52	%		300			6.52	%
									5.550 percent thirty-year 2010 senior notes	2040			500				5.56	%		500			5.56	%
									4.500 percent thirty-year 2012 senior notes	2042			400				4.51	%		400			4.51	%
									4.000 percent thirty-year 2013 senior notes	2043			750				4.12	%		750			4.12	%
									4.625 percent thirty-year 2014 senior notes	2044			650				4.67	%		—			—
									Interest rate swaps	2015-2022			56				—			181			—
									Deferred gains from interest rate swap terminations, net	—			20				—			50			—
									Capital lease obligations	2015-2025			139				3.62	%		152			3.59	%
									Bank borrowings	2015			—				—			3			5	%
									Discount	2017-2044			(25	)			—			(20	)		—
									Total Long-Term Debt			$	10,315						$	9,741
Schedule of Convertible Debt, Interest Information	'								'
									The following table provides interest expense amounts related to the Senior Convertible Notes.
										Fiscal Year
									(in millions)	2013				2012
									Interest cost related to contractual interest coupon	$	35			$	36
									Interest cost related to amortization of the discount		90				87
Schedule of Maturities of Long-term Debt	'								'
									Contractual maturities of debt for the next five fiscal years and thereafter, excluding the debt discount, the fair value of outstanding interest rate swap agreements, and the remaining deferred gains from terminated interest rate swap agreements are as follows:
									(in millions)
									Fiscal Year
									2015	$	1,601
									2016		1,112
									2017		531
									2018		1,018
									2019		419
									Thereafter		7,184
									Total debt		11,865
									Less: Current portion of debt		1,601
									Long-term portion of debt	$	10,264

Derivatives_and_Foreign_Exchan1

Derivatives and Foreign Exchange Risk Management (Tables)	3 Months Ended														12 Months Ended
	Jul. 25, 2014														Apr. 25, 2014
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract]	'														'
Schedule of Cash Flow Hedging Instruments, Statements of Financial Performance and Other Comprehensive Income, Location	'														'
															The amount of (losses) gains and location of the (losses) gains in the consolidated statements of earnings and other comprehensive income (OCI) related to foreign currency exchange rate contract derivative instruments designated as cash flow hedges for the fiscal years ended April 25, 2014, April 26, 2013, and April 27, 2012 are as follows:
	The amount of gains (losses) and location of the gains (losses) in the condensed consolidated statements of earnings and other comprehensive income (OCI) related to foreign currency exchange rate contract derivative instruments designated as cash flow hedges for the three months ended July 25, 2014 and July 26, 2013 are as follows:
															April 25, 2014
															(in millions)	Gross (Losses) Gains				Effective Portion of (Losses)
	Three months ended July 25, 2014															Recognized in OCI				Gains on Derivative Reclassified
	(in millions)	Gross Gains (Losses)				Effective Portion of Gains										on Effective Portion of				from AOCI into Income
		Recognized in OCI				(Losses) on Derivative Reclassified										Derivative
		on Effective Portion of				from AOCI into Income									Derivatives in Cash Flow Hedging Relationships	Amount				Location		Amount
		Derivative													Foreign currency exchange	$	(152	)		Other expense, net		$	94
	Derivatives in Cash Flow Hedging Relationships	Amount				Location			Amount						rate contracts
	Foreign currency exchange	$	62				Other expense, net		$	2										Cost of products sold			(43	)
	rate contracts
							Cost of products sold			(3	)				Total	$	(152	)				$	51
	Total	$	62						$	(1	)
															April 26, 2013
															(in millions)	Gross (Losses) Gains				Effective Portion of (Losses)
	Three months ended July 26, 2013															Recognized in OCI				Gains on Derivative Reclassified
	(in millions)	Gross Gains (Losses)				Effective Portion of Gains										on Effective Portion of				from AOCI into Income
		Recognized in OCI				(Losses) on Derivative Reclassified										Derivative
		on Effective Portion of				from AOCI into Income									Derivatives in Cash Flow Hedging Relationships	Amount				Location		Amount
		Derivative													Foreign currency exchange	$	121			Other expense, net		$	103
	Derivatives in Cash Flow Hedging Relationships	Amount				Location			Amount						rate contracts
	Foreign currency exchange	$	(27	)			Other expense, net		$	32										Cost of products sold			(2	)
	rate contracts
							Cost of products sold			(15	)				Total	$	121					$	101
	Total	$	(27	)						17
															April 27, 2012
															(in millions)	Gross (Losses) Gains				Effective Portion of (Losses)
																Recognized in OCI				Gains on Derivative Reclassified
																on Effective Portion of				from AOCI into Income
																Derivative
															Derivatives in Cash Flow Hedging Relationships	Amount				Location		Amount
															Foreign currency exchange	$	332			Other expense, net		$	(141	)
															rate contracts
																				Cost of products sold			14
															Total	$	332					$	(127	)
Schedule of Foreign Currency Derivative Instruments Not Designated as Hedging Instruments, Gain (Loss) in Statement of Financial Performance	'														'
															The amount and location of the gains in the consolidated statements of earnings related to derivative instruments, not designated as hedging instruments, for fiscal years 2014, 2013, and 2012 are as follows:
	The amount and location of the (losses) gains in the condensed consolidated statements of earnings related to derivative instruments, not designated as hedging instruments, for the three months ended July 25, 2014 and July 26, 2013 are as follows:
															(in millions)					Fiscal Year
															Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments	Location				2014				2013			2012
	(in millions)					Three months ended									Foreign currency exchange rate contracts		Other expense, net			$	15			$	26		$	53
	Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments	Location				July 25, 2014			July 26, 2013
	Foreign currency exchange rate contracts		Other expense, net			$	(24	)	$	29
Schedule of Derivative Instruments in Statement of Financial Position, Fair Value	'														'
															The following tables summarize the location and fair value amounts of derivative instruments reported in the consolidated balance sheets as of April 25, 2014 and April 26, 2013. The fair value amounts are presented on a gross basis and are segregated between derivatives that are designated and qualify as hedging instruments and those that are not, and are further segregated by type of contract within those two categories.
	The following tables summarize the location and fair value amounts of derivative instruments reported in the condensed consolidated balance sheets as of July 25, 2014 and April 25, 2014. The fair value amounts are presented on a gross basis and are segregated between derivatives that are designated and qualify as hedging instruments and those that are not, and are further segregated by type of contract within those two categories.
															April 25, 2014
	July 25, 2014
																Asset Derivatives						Liability Derivatives
															(in millions)	Balance Sheet Location		Fair				Balance Sheet Location		Fair
		Asset Derivatives						Liability Derivatives										Value						Value
	(in millions)	Balance Sheet Location		Fair				Balance Sheet Location	Fair						Derivatives designated as hedging instruments
				Value					Value
	Derivatives designated as hedging instruments														Interest rate contracts	Prepaid expenses and other current assets		$	13			Other accrued expenses		$	—
	Interest rate contracts	Prepaid expenses and other current assets		$	9			Other accrued expenses	$	—					Foreign currency exchange rate contracts	Prepaid expenses and other current assets			81			Other accrued expenses			84
	Foreign currency exchange rate contracts	Prepaid expenses and other current assets			72			Other accrued expenses		52					Interest rate contracts	Other assets			73			Other long-term liabilities			11
	Interest rate contracts	Other assets			71			Other long-term liabilities		—					Foreign currency exchange rate contracts	Other assets			8			Other long-term liabilities			30
	Foreign currency exchange rate contracts	Other assets			23			Other long-term liabilities		15
															Total derivatives designated as hedging instruments			$	175					$	125
	Total derivatives designated as hedging instruments			$	175				$	67
															Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments
	Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments
	Foreign currency exchange rate contracts	Prepaid expenses and other current assets		$	1			Other accrued expenses	$	1					Foreign currency exchange rate contracts	Prepaid expenses and other current assets		$	—			Other accrued expenses		$	2
	Total derivatives not designated as hedging instruments			$	1				$	1					Total derivatives not designated as hedging instruments			$	—					$	2
	Total derivatives			$	176				$	68					Total derivatives			$	175					$	127
	April 25, 2014														April 26, 2013
																Asset Derivatives						Liability Derivatives
		Asset Derivatives						Liability Derivatives							(in millions)	Balance Sheet Location		Fair				Balance Sheet Location		Fair
	(in millions)	Balance Sheet Location		Fair				Balance Sheet Location	Fair Value									Value						Value
				Value											Derivatives designated as hedging instruments
	Derivatives designated as hedging instruments
															Foreign currency exchange rate contracts	Prepaid expenses and other current assets		$	150			Other accrued expenses		$	34
	Interest rate contracts	Prepaid expenses and		$	13			Other accrued expenses	$	—					Interest rate contracts	Other assets			181			Other long-term liabilities			18
		other current assets													Foreign currency exchange rate contracts	Other assets			63			Other long-term liabilities			5
	Foreign currency exchange rate contracts	Prepaid expenses and			81			Other accrued expenses		84
		other current assets													Total derivatives designated as hedging instruments			$	394					$	57
	Interest rate contracts	Other assets			73			Other long-term		11
								liabilities							Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments
	Foreign currency exchange rate contracts	Other assets			8			Other long-term		30
								liabilities							Foreign currency exchange rate contracts	Prepaid expenses and other current assets		$	—			Other accrued expenses		$	1
	Total derivatives designated as hedging instruments			$	175				$	125					Total derivatives not designated as hedging instruments			$	—					$	1
	Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments														Total derivatives			$	394					$	58
	Foreign currency exchange rate contracts	Prepaid expenses and		$	—			Other accrued expenses	$	2
		other current assets
	Total derivatives not designated as hedging instruments			$	—				$	2
	Total derivatives			$	175				$	127
Offsetting Assets and Liabilities	'														'
															The following table provides information as if the Company had elected to offset the asset and liability balances of derivative instruments, netted in accordance with various criteria as stipulated by the terms of the master netting arrangements with each of the counterparties. Derivatives not subject to master netting arrangements are not eligible for net presentation.
	The following table provides information as if Medtronic had elected to offset the asset and liability balances of derivative instruments, netted in accordance with various criteria as stipulated by the terms of the master netting arrangements with each of the counterparties. Derivatives not subject to master netting arrangements are not eligible for net presentation.
															April 25, 2014					Gross Amount Not Offset on the
																				Balance Sheet
	July 25, 2014					Gross Amount Not Offset on the									(in millions)	Gross Amount of				Financial				Cash Collateral			Net Amount
						Balance Sheet										Recognized Assets				Instruments				(Received) or
	(in millions)	Gross Amount of				Financial			Cash Collateral			Net Amount				(Liabilities)								Posted
		Recognized Assets				Instruments			(Received) or						Derivative Assets
		(Liabilities)							Posted						Foreign currency exchange rate contracts	$	89			$	(64	)		$	—		$	25
	Derivative Assets														Interest rate contracts		86				(31	)			—			55
	Foreign currency exchange rate contracts	$	96			$	(50	)	$	—		$	46
	Interest rate contracts		80				(11	)		—			69			$	175			$	(95	)		$	—		$	80
		$	176			$	(61	)	$	—		$	115		Derivative Liabilities
															Foreign currency exchange rate contracts	$	(116	)		$	84			$	—		$	(32	)
	Derivative Liabilities														Interest rate contracts		(11	)			11				—			—
	Foreign currency exchange rate contracts	$	(68	)		$	61		$	—		$	(7	)
																$	(127	)		$	95			$	—		$	(32	)
		$	(68	)		$	61		$	—		$	(7	)
															Total	$	48			$	—			$	—		$	48
	Total	$	108			$	—		$	—		$	108
															April 26, 2013					Gross Amount Not Offset on the
																				Balance Sheet
	April 25, 2014					Gross Amount Not Offset on the									(in millions)	Gross Amount of				Financial				Cash Collateral			Net Amount
						Balance Sheet										Recognized Assets				Instruments				(Received) or
	(in millions)	Gross Amount of				Financial			Cash Collateral			Net Amount				(Liabilities)								Posted
		Recognized Assets				Instruments			(Received) or						Derivative Assets
		(Liabilities)							Posted						Foreign currency exchange rate contracts	$	213			$	(42	)		$	(24	)	$	147
	Derivative Assets														Interest rate contracts		181				(16	)			(6	)		159
	Foreign currency exchange rate contracts	$	89			$	(64	)	$	—		$	25
	Interest rate contracts		86				(31	)		—			55			$	394			$	(58	)		$	(30	)	$	306
		$	175			$	(95	)	$	—		$	80		Derivative Liabilities
															Foreign currency exchange rate contracts	$	(40	)		$	40			$	—		$	—
	Derivative Liabilities														Interest rate contracts		(18	)			18				—			—
	Foreign currency exchange rate contracts	$	(116	)		$	84		$	—		$	(32	)
	Interest rate contracts		(11	)			11			—			—			$	(58	)		$	58			$	—		$	—
		$	(127	)		$	95		$	—		$	(32	)	Total	$	336			$	—			$	(30	)	$	306
	Total	$	48			$	—		$	—		$	48

Inventories_Tables

Inventories (Tables)	3 Months Ended					12 Months Ended
	Jul. 25, 2014					Apr. 25, 2014
Inventory Disclosure [Abstract]	'					'
Schedule of Inventory, Net of Reserves	'					'
						Inventory balances are as follows:
	Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or market, with cost determined on a first-in, first-out basis. Inventory balances are as follows:
						(in millions)	April 25,		April 26,
							2014		2013
	(in millions)	July 25, 2014		April 25, 2014		Finished goods	$	1,196	$	1,174
	Finished goods	$	1,235	$	1,196	Work in process		247		248
	Work in process		283		247	Raw materials		282		290
	Raw materials		318		282
						Total	$	1,725	$	1,712
	Total	$	1,836	$	1,725

Goodwill_and_Other_Intangible_1

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets, Net (Tables)	3 Months Ended															12 Months Ended
	Jul. 25, 2014															Apr. 25, 2014
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]	'															'
Schedule of Goodwill	'															'
																The changes in the carrying amount of goodwill for fiscal years 2014 and 2013 are as follows:
	The changes in the carrying amount of goodwill for the three months ended July 25, 2014 are as follows:
																(in millions)	Cardiac and			Restorative			Diabetes Group		Total
																	Vascular Group			Therapies Group
	(in millions)	Cardiac and			Restorative			Diabetes		Total						Balance as of April 27, 2012	$	2,636		$	5,954		$	1,344	$	9,934
		Vascular			Therapies			Group								Goodwill as a result of acquisitions		—			414			—		414
		Group			Group											Other adjustments, net		—			3			—		3
	Balance as of April 25, 2014	$	2,881		$	6,368		$	1,344	$	10,593					Currency adjustment, net		(12	)		(10	)		—		(22	)
	Goodwill as a result of acquisitions		50			49			—		99
	Other adjustments, net		(2	)		—			—		(2	)				Balance as of April 26, 2013	$	2,624		$	6,361		$	1,344	$	10,329
	Currency adjustment, net		5			1			—		6					Goodwill as a result of acquisitions		279			—			—		279
																Other adjustments, net		(8	)		7			—		(1	)
	Balance as of July 25, 2014	$	2,934		$	6,418		$	1,344	$	10,696					Currency adjustment, net		(14	)		—			—		(14	)
																Balance as of April 25, 2014	$	2,881		$	6,368		$	1,344	$	10,593
Schedule of Intangible Assets by Major Class	'															'
	Balances of other intangible assets, net, excluding goodwill as of July 25, 2014 and April 25, 2014 are as follows:
	(in millions)	Purchased			Trademarks			Acquired		Other			Total
		Technology			and			IPR&D
		and			Tradenames
		Patents
	Other intangible assets as of July 25, 2014:
	Original cost	$	3,992		$	408		$	116	$	190		$	4,706
	Accumulated amortization		(1,946	)		(337	)		—		(82	)		(2,365	)
	Carrying value	$	2,046		$	71		$	116	$	108		$	2,341
	Other intangible assets as of April 25, 2014:
	Original cost	$	3,857		$	408		$	119	$	200		$	4,584
	Accumulated amortization		(1,878	)		(332	)		—		(88	)		(2,298	)
	Carrying value	$	1,979		$	76		$	119	$	112		$	2,286
Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Future Amortization Expense	'															'
																Estimated aggregate amortization expense based on the current carrying value of amortizable intangible assets, excluding any possible future amortization associated with acquired IPR&D, which has not met technological feasibility, is as follows:
	Estimated aggregate amortization expense based on the current carrying value of amortizable intangible assets, excluding any possible future amortization associated with acquired IPR&D, which has not met technological feasibility, is as follows:
																(in millions)	Amortization
																Fiscal Year	Expense
	(in millions)	Estimated														2015	$	338
		Amortization														2016		326
	Fiscal Year	Expense														2017		304
	Remaining 2015	$	275													2018		289
	2016		331													2019		244
	2017		309													Thereafter		666
	2018		293
	2019		249														$	2,167
	2020		204
	Thereafter		564
	Total estimated amortization expense	$	2,225
Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class	'															'
																Balances of other intangible assets, net, for fiscal years 2014 and 2013 are as follows:
																(in millions)	Purchased			Trademarks			Acquired		Other			Total
																	Technology			and			IPR&D
																	and			Tradenames
																	Patents
																Other intangible assets as of April 25, 2014
																Original cost	$	3,857		$	408		$	119	$	200		$	4,584
																Accumulated amortization		(1,878	)		(332	)		—		(88	)		(2,298	)
																Carrying value	$	1,979		$	76		$	119	$	112		$	2,286
																Weighted average original life (in years)		12.7			11.8			N/A		8.7
																Other intangible assets as of April 26, 2013
																Original cost	$	3,896		$	408		$	363	$	104		$	4,771
																Accumulated amortization		(1,702	)		(320	)		—		(76	)		(2,098	)
																Carrying value	$	2,194		$	88		$	363	$	28		$	2,673
																Weighted average original life (in years)		12.5			11.8			N/A		8.8

Warranty_Obligation_Tables

Warranty Obligation (Tables)	3 Months Ended							12 Months Ended
	Jul. 25, 2014							Apr. 25, 2014
Guarantees [Abstract]	'							'
Schedule of Product Warranty Obligations	'							'
								Changes in the Company’s product warranty obligations during the years ended April 25, 2014 and April 26, 2013 consisted of the following:
	Changes in Medtronic’s product warranty obligations during the three months ended July 25, 2014 and July 26, 2013 consisted of the following:
								(in millions)
								Balance as of April 27, 2012	$	31
		Three months ended						Warranty claims provision		25
	(in millions)	July 25,			July 26,			Settlements made		(21	)
		2014			2013
	Balance at the beginning of the period	$	32		$	35		Balance as of April 26, 2013	$	35
	Warranty claims provision		6			11		Warranty claims provision		25
	Settlements made		(7	)		(8	)	Settlements made		(28	)
	Balance at the end of the period	$	31		$	38		Balance as of April 25, 2014	$	32

Interest_Expense_Net_Tables

Interest Expense, Net (Tables)	3 Months Ended							12 Months Ended
	Jul. 25, 2014							Apr. 25, 2014
Text Block [Abstract]	'							'
Interest Income and Interest Expense	'							'
	Interest income and interest expense for the three months ended July 25, 2014 and July 26, 2013 are as follows:							Interest income and interest expense for fiscal years 2014, 2013, and 2012 are as follows:
		Three months ended							Fiscal Year
	(in millions)	July 25,			July 26,			(in millions)	2014			2013			2012
		2014			2013			Interest income	$	(271	)	$	(237	)	$	(200	)
	Interest income	$	(92	)	$	(50	)	Interest expense		379			388			349
	Interest expense		97			90
								Interest expense, net	$	108		$	151		$	149
	Interest expense, net	$	5		$	40

Earnings_Per_Share_Tables

Earnings Per Share (Tables)	3 Months Ended					12 Months Ended
	Jul. 25, 2014					Apr. 25, 2014
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]	'					'
Schedule of Calculation of Numerator and Denominator in Earnings Per Share	'					'
						The table below sets forth the computation of basic and diluted earnings per share:
	The table below sets forth the computation of basic and diluted earnings per share:
							Fiscal Year
						(in millions, except per share data)	2014		2013		2012
		Three months ended				Numerator:
	(in millions, except per share data)	July 25,		July 26,		Earnings from continuing operations	$	3,065	$	3,467	$	3,415
		2014		2013		Earnings from discontinued operations		—		—		202
	Numerator:					Net earnings		3,065		3,467		3,617
	Net earnings	$	871	$	953	Denominator:
	Denominator:					Basic – weighted average shares outstanding		1,002.10		1,019.30		1,053.90
	Basic – weighted average shares outstanding		992.6		1,009.70	Effect of dilutive securities:
	Effect of dilutive securities:					Employee stock options		7.1		2.8		0.9
	Employee stock options		7.5		6.6	Employee restricted stock units		4.3		5.3		4.9
	Employee restricted stock units		5		4.8	Other		0.1		0.1		0.2
	Other		0.1		0.1
						Diluted – weighted average shares outstanding		1,013.60		1,027.50		1,059.90
	Diluted – weighted average shares outstanding		1,005.20		1,021.20
						Basic earnings per share:
	Basic earnings per share:	$	0.88	$	0.94	Earnings from continuing operations	$	3.06	$	3.4	$	3.24
	Diluted earnings per share:	$	0.87	$	0.93	Earnings from discontinued operations	$	—	$	—	$	0.19
						Net earnings	$	3.06	$	3.4	$	3.43
						Diluted earnings per share:
						Earnings from continuing operations	$	3.02	$	3.37	$	3.22
						Earnings from discontinued operations	$	—	$	—	$	0.19
						Net earnings	$	3.02	$	3.37	$	3.41

Stock_Purchase_and_Award_Plans1

Stock Purchase and Award Plans (Tables)	3 Months Ended							12 Months Ended
	Jul. 25, 2014							Apr. 25, 2014
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract]	'							'
Schedule of Components and Classification of Stock-based Compensation Expense	'							'
								The following table presents the components and classification of stock-based compensation expense, for stock options, restricted stock awards, and ESPP shares recognized for fiscal years 2014, 2013, and 2012:
	The following table presents the components and classification of stock-based compensation expense recognized for the three months ended July 25, 2014 and July 26, 2013:
										Fiscal Year
								(in millions)		2014			2013			2012
		Three months ended						Stock options		$	34		$	44		$	60
	(in millions)	July 25,			July 26,			Restricted stock awards			98			96			86
		2014			2013			Employees stock purchase plan			13			12			13
	Stock options	$	6		$	8		Physio-Control award acceleration			—			—			2
	Restricted stock awards		23			19
	Employee stock purchase plan		5			4		Total stock-based compensation expense		$	145		$	152		$	161
	Total stock-based compensation expense	$	34		$	31		Cost of products sold		$	14		$	12		$	12
								Research and development expense			27			31			29
	Cost of products sold	$	4		$	3		Selling, general, and administrative expense			104			109			118
	Research and development expense		6			6		Physio-Control divestiture-related costs			—			—			2
	Selling, general, and administrative expense		24			22
								Total stock-based compensation expense			145			152			161
	Total stock-based compensation expense	$	34		$	31		Income tax benefits			(40	)		(43	)		(45	)
	Income tax benefits		(9	)		(8	)	Total stock-based compensation expense, net of tax		$	105		$	109		$	116
	Total stock-based compensation expense, net of tax	$	25		$	23
Schedule of Stock Options Valuation Assumptions	'							'
								The following table provides the weighted average fair value of options granted to employees and the related assumptions used in the Black-Scholes model:
										Fiscal Year
										2014			2013			2012
								Weighted average fair value of options granted		$	12		$	7.42		$	6.88
								Assumptions used:
								Expected life (years)(a)			6.4			6.5			6.4
								Risk-free interest rate(b)			1.88	%		0.94	%		1.82	%
								Volatility(c)			25.2	%		26.22	%		25.97	%
								Dividend yield(d)			2.02	%		2.64	%		2.78	%
								(a)	Expected life: The Company analyzes historical employee stock option exercise and termination data to estimate the expected life assumption. The Company calculates the expected life assumption using the midpoint scenario, which combines historical exercise data with hypothetical exercise data, as the Company believes this data currently represents the best estimate of the expected life of a new employee option. The Company also stratifies its employee population into two groups based upon distinctive exercise behavior patterns.
								(b)	Risk-free interest rate: The rate is based on the grant date yield of a zero-coupon U.S. Treasury bond whose maturity period equals the expected term of the option.
								(c)	Volatility: Expected volatility is based on a blend of historical volatility and an implied volatility of the Company’s common stock. Implied volatility is based on market traded options of the Company’s common stock.
								(d)	Dividend yield: The dividend yield rate is calculated by dividing the Company’s annual dividend, based on the most recent quarterly dividend rate, by the closing stock price on the grant date.
Schedule of Stock Options Activity	'							'
								The following table summarizes all stock option activity, including activity from options assumed or issued as a result of acquisitions, during fiscal years 2014, 2013, and 2012:
										Fiscal Year
										2014						2013					2012
										Options (in			Wtd. Avg.			Options (in			Wtd. Avg.		Options (in			Wtd. Avg.
										thousands)			Exercise			thousands)			Exercise		thousands)			Exercise
													Price						Price					Price
								Beginning balance			62,020		$	44.98			74,590		$	44.80		84,652		$	45.23
								Granted			2,983			55.36			4,437			39.54		4,634			34.93
								Exercised			(27,527	)		46.26			(6,096	)		37.73		(1,218	)		34.95
								Canceled			(1,899	)		46.44			(10,911	)		45.57		(13,478	)		44.98
								Outstanding at year-end			35,577		$	44.78			62,020		$	44.98		74,590		$	44.8
								Exercisable at year-end			26,997		$	45.22			50,908		$	46.65		60,833		$	46.73
Schedule of Restricted Stock Award Activity	'							'
								Restricted Stock Awards    The following table summarizes restricted stock award activity during fiscal years 2014, 2013, and 2012:
										Fiscal Year
										2014						2013					2012
										Awards (in			Wtd. Avg.			Awards (in			Wtd. Avg.		Awards (in			Wtd. Avg.
										thousands)			Grant			thousands)			Grant		thousands)			Grant
													Price						Price					Price
								Nonvested, beginning balance			10,058		$	38.97			9,980		$	37.8		9,207		$	40.42
								Granted			2,519			55.62			3,135			39.53		3,785			35.6
								Vested			(2,210	)		35.76			(2,445	)		35.58		(2,194	)		44.74
								Forfeited			(809	)		39.41			(612	)		36.34		(818	)		38.46
								Nonvested at year-end			9,558		$	44.06			10,058		$	38.97		9,980		$	37.80

Retirement_Benefit_Plans_Table

Retirement Benefit Plans (Tables)	3 Months Ended																			12 Months Ended
	Jul. 25, 2014																			Apr. 25, 2014
Schedule of Net Benefit Costs	'																			'
																				The net periodic benefit cost of the plans include the following components:
	The net periodic benefit cost of the plans includes the following components for the three months ended July 25, 2014 and July 26, 2013:
																					U.S. Pension Benefits									Non-U.S. Pension Benefits									Post-Retirement Benefits
																					Fiscal Year									Fiscal Year									Fiscal Year
		U.S. Pension Benefits						Non-U.S. Pension						Post-Retirement Benefits						(in millions)	2014			2013			2012			2014			2013			2012			2014			2013			2012
								Benefits												Service cost	$	107		$	104		$	92		$	54		$	43		$	42		$	19		$	19		$	19
		Three months ended						Three months ended						Three months ended						Interest cost		97			94			87			29			27			29			14			15			17
	(in millions)	July 25,			July 26,			July 25,			July 26,			July 25,			July 26,			Expected return on plan assets		(141	)		(128	)		(121	)		(35	)		(33	)		(36	)		(19	)		(17	)		(16	)
		2014			2013			2014			2013			2014			2013			Amortization of prior service cost (credit)		1			(1	)		(1	)		1			1			1			—			—			—
	Service cost	$	26		$	27		$	15		$	14		$	5		$	5		Amortization of net actuarial loss		85			71			45			11			8			4			1			3			3
	Interest cost		26			24			8			7			4			3
	Expected return on plan assets		(39	)		(35	)		(10	)		(9	)		(6	)		(5	)	Net periodic benefit cost	$	149		$	140		$	102		$	60		$	46		$	40		$	15		$	20		$	23
	Amortization of net actuarial loss		16			21			3			2			—			—
	Net periodic benefit cost	$	29		$	37		$	16		$	14		$	3		$	3
Schedule of Defined Benefit Plans	'																			'
																				The change in benefit obligation and funded status of the Company’s employee retirement plans are as follows:
																					U.S. Pension Benefits						Non-U.S. Pension						Post-Retirement Benefits
																											Benefits
																					Fiscal Year						Fiscal Year						Fiscal Year
																				(in millions)	2014			2013			2014			2013			2014			2013
																				Accumulated benefit obligation at end of year:	$	1,996		$	1,924		$	871		$	689		$	327		$	302
																				Change in projected benefit obligation:
																				Projected benefit obligation at beginning of year	$	2,154		$	1,877		$	811		$	717		$	302		$	339
																				Service cost		107			104			54			43			19			19
																				Interest cost		97			94			29			27			14			15
																				Employee contributions		—			—			16			15			9			9
																				Plan amendments		—			—			—			(8	)		—			—
																				Plan curtailments		—			—			(2	)		—			—			—
																				Actuarial (gain) loss		(104	)		151			88			65			1			(62	)
																				Benefits paid		(51	)		(72	)		(27	)		(25	)		(19	)		(19	)
																				Medicare Part D reimbursements		—			—			—			—			1			1
																				Foreign currency exchange rate changes		—			—			62			(23	)		—			—
																				Projected benefit obligation at end of year	$	2,203		$	2,154		$	1,031		$	811		$	327		$	302
																				Change in plan assets:
																				Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year	$	1,717		$	1,470		$	733		$	638		$	233		$	204
																				Actual return on plan assets		163			129			61			69			24			19
																				Employer contributions		88			190			48			49			20			20
																				Employee contributions		—			—			16			15			9			9
																				Benefits paid		(51	)		(72	)		(27	)		(25	)		(19	)		(19	)
																				Foreign currency exchange rate changes		—			—			58			(13	)		—			—
																				Fair value of plan assets at end of year	$	1,917		$	1,717		$	889		$	733		$	267		$	233
																				Funded status at end of year:
																				Fair value of plan assets	$	1,917		$	1,717		$	889		$	733		$	267		$	233
																				Benefit obligations		2,203			2,154			1,031			811			327			302
																				Underfunded status of the plans	$	(286	)	$	(437	)	$	(142	)	$	(78	)	$	(60	)	$	(69	)
																				Recognized liability	$	(286	)	$	(437	)	$	(142	)	$	(78	)	$	(60	)	$	(69	)
																				Amounts recognized on the consolidated balance sheets consist of:
																				Non-current assets	$	—		$	—		$	17		$	19		$	—		$	—
																				Current liabilities		(10	)		(9	)		(4	)		(4	)		(1	)		(1	)
																				Non-current liabilities		(276	)		(428	)		(155	)		(93	)		(59	)		(68	)
																				Recognized liability	$	(286	)	$	(437	)	$	(142	)	$	(78	)	$	(60	)	$	(69	)
																				Amounts recognized in accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income:
																				Prior service cost (benefit)	$	4		$	5		$	(2	)	$	(1	)	$	(3	)	$	(3	)
																				Net actuarial loss		837			1,048			254			190			39			43
																				Ending balance	$	841		$	1,053		$	252		$	189		$	36		$	40
Schedule of Accumulated Benefit Obligations in Excess of Fair Value of Plan Assets	'																			'
																				2013. U.S. and non-U.S. plans with accumulated benefit obligations in excess of plan assets consist of the following:
																					Fiscal Year
																				(in millions)	2014			2013
																				Accumulated benefit obligation	$	2,426		$	2,003
																				Projected benefit obligation		2,703			2,243
																				Plan assets at fair value		2,268			1,740
Schedule of Benefit Obligations in Excess of Fair Value of Plan Assets	'																			'
																				Plans with projected benefit obligations in excess of plan assets consist of the following:
																					Fiscal Year
																				(in millions)	2014			2013
																				Projected benefit obligation	$	2,864		$	2,637
																				Plan assets at fair value		2,419			2,104
Schedule of Defined Benefit Plan Amounts Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)	'																			'
																				The other changes in plan assets and projected benefit obligations recognized in accumulated other comprehensive loss for fiscal year 2014 are as follows:
																				(in millions)	U.S. Pension			Non-U.S.			Post-
																					Benefits			Pension			Retirement
																								Benefits			Benefits
																				Net actuarial (gain) loss	$	(126	)	$	61		$	(3	)
																				Amortization of prior service cost		(1	)		(1	)		—
																				Amortization of net actuarial gain		(85	)		(11	)		(1	)
																				Effect of exchange rates		—			14			—
																				Total recognized in accumulated other comprehensive loss	$	(212	)	$	63		$	(4	)
																				Total recognized in net periodic benefit cost and accumulated other comprehensive loss	$	(63	)	$	124		$	11
Schedule of Amounts in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) to be Recognized over Next Fiscal Year	'																			'
																				The estimated amounts that will be amortized from accumulated other comprehensive loss into net periodic benefit cost, before tax, in fiscal year 2015 are as follows:
																				(in millions)	U.S. Pension			Non-U.S.			Post-
																					Benefits			Pension			Retirement
																								Benefits			Benefits
																				Amortization of net actuarial loss	$	65		$	13		$	—
																					$	65		$	13		$	—
Schedule of Assumptions Used	'																			'
																				The actuarial assumptions are as follows:
																					U.S. Pension Benefits					Non-U.S. Pension Benefits				Post-Retirement Benefits
																					Fiscal Year					Fiscal Year				Fiscal Year
																					2014		2013	2012		2014	2013		2012	2014		2013	2012
																				Weighted average assumptions – projected benefit obligation:
																				Discount rate	4.75%		4.55%	5.05%		3.32%	3.52%		3.98%	4.75%		4.55%	5.05%
																				Rate of compensation increase	3.90%		3.90%	3.80%		2.80%	2.78%		2.85%	N/A		N/A	N/A
																				Initial health care cost trend rate pre-65	N/A		N/A	N/A		N/A	N/A		N/A	7.50%		7.75%	7.50%
																				Initial health care cost trend rate post-65	N/A		N/A	N/A		N/A	N/A		N/A	6.75%		7.00%	7.25%
																				Weighted average assumptions – net periodic benefit cost:
																				Discount rate	4.55%		5.05%	5.80%		3.52%	3.98%		4.75%	4.55%		5.05%	5.80%
																				Expected return on plan assets	8.25%		8.25%	8.25%		4.76%	5.19%		5.82%	8.25%		8.25%	8.25%
																				Rate of compensation increase	3.90%		3.80%	3.80%		2.78%	2.85%		2.97%	N/A		N/A	N/A
																				Initial health care cost trend rate pre-65	N/A		N/A	N/A		N/A	N/A		N/A	7.75%		7.50%	7.75%
																				Initial health care cost trend rate post-65	N/A		N/A	N/A		N/A	N/A		N/A	7.00%		7.25%	7.50%
Schedule of Allocation of Plan Assets	'																			'
																				The Company’s pension plan target allocations at April 25, 2014 and April 26, 2013, by asset category, are as follows:
																				U.S. Plans
																					Target Allocation
																					2014			2013
																				Asset Category
																				Equity securities		50	%		50	%
																				Debt securities		20			20
																				Other		30			30
																				Total		100	%		100	%
																				Non-U.S. Plans
																					Target Allocation
																					2014			2013
																				Asset Category
																				Equity securities		41	%		40	%
																				Debt securities		22			22
																				Other		37			38
																				Total		100	%		100	%
Schedule of Expected Benefit Payments	'																			'
																				Retiree benefit payments, which reflect expected future service, are anticipated to be paid as follows:
																				(in millions)	U.S. Pension			Non-U.S.			Post-Retirement Benefits
																					Benefits			Pension Benefits
																				Fiscal Year	Gross			Gross			Gross			Gross Medicare
																					Payments			Payments			Payments			Part D Receipts
																				2015	$	59		$	36		$	12		$	—
																				2016		69			30			14			—
																				2017		78			31			16			—
																				2018		88			33			18			—
																				2019		98			32			20			—
																				2020 – 2024		659			187			137			—
																				Total	$	1,051		$	349		$	217		$	—
Schedule of Effect of One-Percentage-Point Change in Assumed Health Care Cost Trend Rates	'																			'
																				on the amounts reported for the health care plans. A one-percentage-point change in assumed health care cost trend rates would have the following effects:
																				(in millions)	One-Percentage-			One-Percentage-
																					Point Increase			Point Decrease
																				Effect on post-retirement benefit cost	$	1		$	(1	)
																				Effect on post-retirement benefit obligation		11			(9	)
U.S. Pension Benefits	'																			'
Fair Value Measurements, Retirement Benefit Plan Assets	'																			'
																				The following tables provide information by level for the retirement benefit plan assets that are measured at fair value, as defined by U.S. GAAP. See Note 6 for discussion of the fair value measurement terms of Levels 1, 2, and 3.
																				U.S. Pension Benefits
																					Fair Value			Fair Value Measurements
																					as of			Using Inputs Considered as
																				(in millions)	April 25, 2014			Level 1			Level 2			Level 3
																				Short-term investments	$	157		$	157		$	—		$	—
																				U.S. government securities		158			108			50			—
																				Corporate debt securities		60			—			59			1
																				Other common stock		125			125			—			—
																				Equity mutual funds/commingled trusts		578			—			293			285
																				Fixed income mutual funds		166			—			166			—
																				Partnership units		673			—			—			673
																					$	1,917		$	390		$	568		$	959
																					Fair Value			Fair Value Measurements
																					as of			Using Inputs Considered as
																				(in millions)	April 26, 2013			Level 1			Level 2			Level 3
																				Short-term investments	$	195		$	195		$	—		$	—
																				U.S. government securities		172			145			27			—
																				Corporate debt securities		62			—			61			1
																				Other common stock		216			216			—			—
																				Equity mutual funds/commingled trusts		377			—			150			227
																				Fixed income mutual funds		72			—			72			—
																				Partnership units		623			—			—			623
																					$	1,717		$	556		$	310		$	851
Fair Value, Retirement Benefit Plan Assets, Unobservable Input Reconciliation	'																			'
																				The following tables provide a reconciliation of the beginning and ending balances of U.S. pension benefit assets measured at fair value that used significant unobservable inputs (Level 3):
																				(in millions)	Total Level 3			Corporate Debt			Commingled			Partnership Units
																					Investments			Securities			Trusts
																				Balance as of April 26, 2013	$	851		$	1		$	227		$	623
																				Total realized gains (losses) included in earnings		23			—			—			23
																				Total unrealized gains (losses) included in accumulated other comprehensive loss		86			—			58			28
																				Purchases and sales, net		(1	)		—			—			(1	)
																				Balance as of April 25, 2014	$	959		$	1		$	285		$	673
																				(in millions)	Total Level 3			Corporate Debt			Commingled			Partnership Units
																					Investments			Securities			Trusts
																				Balance as of April 27, 2012	$	752		$	1		$	193		$	558
																				Total realized gains (losses) included in earnings		8			—			—			8
																				Total unrealized gains (losses) included in accumulated other comprehensive loss		62			—			34			28
																				Purchases and sales, net		29			—			—			29
																				Balance as of April 26, 2013	$	851		$	1		$	227		$	623
Non-U.S. Pension Benefits	'																			'
Fair Value Measurements, Retirement Benefit Plan Assets	'																			'
																				Non-U.S. Pension Benefits
																					Fair Value			Fair Value Measurements
																					as of			Using Inputs Considered as
																				(in millions)	April 25, 2014			Level 1			Level 2			Level 3
																				Registered investment companies	$	868		$	—		$	868		$	—
																				Insurance contracts		11			—			—			11
																				Partnership units		10			—			—			10
																					$	889		$	—		$	868		$	21
																					Fair Value as of			Fair Value Measurements
																					April 26, 2013			Using Inputs Considered as
																				(in millions)				Level 1			Level 2			Level 3
																				Registered investment companies	$	715		$	—		$	715		$	—
																				Insurance contracts		10			—			—			10
																				Partnership units		8			—			—			8
																					$	733		$	—		$	715		$	18
Fair Value, Retirement Benefit Plan Assets, Unobservable Input Reconciliation	'																			'
																				The following tables provide a reconciliation of the beginning and ending balances of non-U.S. pension benefit assets measured at fair value that used significant unobservable inputs (Level 3):
																				(in millions)	Total Level 3			Insurance			Partnership
																					Investments			Contracts			Units
																				Balance as of April 26, 2013	$	18		$	10		$	8
																				Total unrealized gains (losses) included in accumulated other comprehensive loss		1			—			1
																				Purchases and sales, net		1			—			1
																				Foreign currency exchange		1			1			—
																				Balance as of April 25, 2014	$	21		$	11		$	10
																				(in millions)	Total Level 3			Insurance			Partnership
																					Investments			Contracts			Units
																				Balance as of April 27, 2012	$	16		$	9		$	7
																				Total unrealized gains (losses) included in accumulated other comprehensive loss		1			—			1
																				Purchases and sales, net		1			1			—
																				Balance as of April 26, 2013	$	18		$	10		$	8
Post-Retirement Benefits	'																			'
Fair Value Measurements, Retirement Benefit Plan Assets	'																			'
																				Post-Retirement Benefits
																					Fair Value			Fair Value Measurements
																					as of			Using Inputs Considered as
																				(in millions)	April 25, 2014			Level 1			Level 2			Level 3
																				Short-term investments	$	22		$	22		$	—		$	—
																				U.S. government securities		23			16			7			—
																				Corporate debt securities		9			—			9			—
																				Other common stock		18			18			—			—
																				Equity mutual funds/commingled trusts		83			—			42			41
																				Fixed income mutual funds		24			—			24			—
																				Partnership units		97			—			—			97
																				Total	$	276		$	56		$	82		$	138
																				Other items to reconcile to fair value of plan assets		(9	)
																					$	267
																					Fair Value			Fair Value Measurements
																					as of			Using Inputs Considered as
																				(in millions)	April 26, 2013			Level 1			Level 2			Level 3
																				Short-term investments	$	28		$	28		$	—		$	—
																				U.S. government securities		24			20			4			—
																				Corporate debt securities		9			—			9			—
																				Other common stock		31			31			—			—
																				Equity mutual funds/commingled trusts		53			—			21			32
																				Fixed income mutual funds		10			—			10			—
																				Partnership units		88			—			—			88
																				Total	$	243		$	79		$	44		$	120
																				Other items to reconcile to fair value of plan assets		(10	)
																					$	233
Fair Value, Retirement Benefit Plan Assets, Unobservable Input Reconciliation	'																			'
																				The following tables provide a reconciliation of the beginning and ending balances of post-retirement benefit assets measured at fair value that used significant unobservable inputs (Level 3):
																				(in millions)	Total Level 3			Commingled			Partnership Units
																					Investments			Trusts
																				Balance as of April 26, 2013	$	120		$	32		$	88
																				Total realized gains (losses) included in earnings		4			—			4
																				Total unrealized gains (losses) included in accumulated other comprehensive loss		13			9			4
																				Purchases and sales, net		1			—			1
																				Balance as of April 25, 2014	$	138		$	41		$	97
																				(in millions)	Total Level 3			Commingled			Partnership Units
																					Investments			Trusts
																				Balance as of April 27, 2012	$	108		$	28		$	80
																				Total realized gains (losses) included in earnings		5			4			1
																				Total unrealized gains (losses) included in accumulated other comprehensive loss		4			—			4
																				Purchases and sales, net		3			—			3
																				Balance as of April 26, 2013	$	120		$	32		$	88

Accumulated_Other_Comprehensiv1

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) (Tables)	3 Months Ended																	12 Months Ended
	Jul. 25, 2014																	Apr. 25, 2014
Equity [Abstract]	'																	'
Changes in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss	'																	'
	Changes in AOCI by component are as follows:
																		Presented below is a summary of activity for each component of accumulated other comprehensive loss for fiscal years 2013 and 2012:
	(in millions)		Unrealized			Cumulative			Net Change			Unrealized			Total
			Gain (Loss) on			Translation			in			Gain (Loss)			Accumulated			(in millions)				Unrealized				Cumulative				Net Change				Unrealized				Accumulated
			Available-for-			Adjustments			Retirement			on			Other							Gain (Loss)				Translation				in				Gain (Loss)				Other
			Sale Securities			(a)			Obligations			Derivatives			Comprehensive							on				Adjustments				Retirement				on				Comprehensive
															(Loss) Income							Available-for-								Obligations				Derivatives				Loss
	Balance as of April 25, 2014, net of tax		$	(6	)	$	218		$	(765	)	$	(44	)	$	(597	)					Sale Securities
	Other comprehensive income before reclassifications, before tax			107			1			4			55			167		Balance as of April 29, 2011				$	196			$	443			$	(607	)		$	(256	)		$	(224	)
	Tax expense			(39	)		—			—			(19	)		(58	)	Other comprehensive (loss) income					(66	)			(137	)			(227	)			181				(249	)
	Other comprehensive income before reclassifications, net of tax			68			1			4			36			109		Balance as of April 27, 2012				$	130			$	306			$	(834	)		$	(75	)		$	(473	)
	Reclassifications, before tax			(21	)		—			19			3			1		Other comprehensive (loss) income					(33	)			(21	)			(18	)			53				(19	)
	Tax benefit (expense)			7			—			(6	)		(2	)		(1	)	Correction of classification					—				(80	)			—				80				—
	Reclassifications, net of tax			(14	)(b)		—			13	(c)		1	(d)		—		Balance as of April 26, 2013				$	97			$	205			$	(852	)		$	58			$	(492	)
	Other comprehensive income, net of tax			54			1			17			37			109
	Balance as of July 25, 2014, net of tax		$	48		$	219		$	(748	)	$	(7	)	$	(488	)	Changes in AOCI by component are as follows:
	(in millions)		Unrealized			Cumulative			Net Change			Unrealized			Total
			Gain (Loss)			Translation			in			Gain (Loss)			Accumulated			(in millions)		Unrealized				Cumulative				Net Change in				Unrealized				Total
			on			Adjustments			Retirement			on			Other					Gain (Loss) on				Translation				Retirement				Gain (Loss) on				Accumulated
			Available-for-			(a)			Obligations			Derivatives			Comprehensive					Available-for-				Adjustments (a)				Obligations				Derivatives				Other
			Sale Securities												(Loss) Income					Sale Securities																Comprehensive
	Balance as of April 26, 2013, net of tax		$	97		$	205		$	(852	)	$	58		$	(492	)																			Loss
	Other comprehensive (loss) income before reclassifications, before tax			(131	)		(5	)		—			18			(118	)	Balance as of April 26, 2013, net of tax		$	97			$	205			$	(852	)		$	58			$	(492	)
	Tax benefit (expense)			48			—			—			(6	)		42		Other comprehensive (loss) income before reclassifications, before tax			(89	)			13				60				(120	)			(136	)
																		Tax benefit (expense)			32				—				(37	)			44				39
	Other comprehensive (loss) income before reclassifications, net of tax			(83	)		(5	)		—			12			(76	)
	Reclassifications, before tax			(18	)		—			23			(15	)		(10	)	Other comprehensive (loss) income before reclassifications, net of tax			(57	)			13				23				(76	)			(97	)
	Tax benefit (expense)			6			—			(9	)		5			2		Reclassifications, before tax			(72	)			—				99				(42	)			(15	)
																		Tax benefit (expense)			26				—				(35	)			16				7
	Reclassifications, net of tax			(12	)(b)		—			14	(c)		(10	)(d)		(8	)
																		Reclassifications, net of tax			(46	)(b)			—				64	(c)			(26	)(d)			(8	)
	Other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax			(95	)		(5	)		14			2			(84	)
																		Other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax			(103	)			13				87				(102	)			(105	)
	Balance as of July 26, 2013, net of tax		$	2		$	200		$	(838	)	$	60		$	(576	)
																		Balance as of April 25, 2014, net of tax		$	(6	)		$	218			$	(765	)		$	(44	)		$	(597	)
	(a)	Taxes are not provided on CTA as substantially all translation adjustments relate to earnings that are intended to be indefinitely reinvested outside the U.S.																(a)	Taxes are not provided on CTA as substantially all translation adjustments relate to earnings that are intended to be indefinitely reinvested outside the U.S.
	(b)	Represents net realized gains on sales of available-for-sale securities that were reclassified from AOCI to other expense, net (see Note 6).																(b)	Represents net realized gains on sales of available-for-sale securities that were reclassified from AOCI to other expense, net (see Note 5).
	(c)	Includes net amortization of prior service costs and actuarial losses included in net periodic benefit cost (see Note 17).																(c)	Includes net amortization of prior service costs and actuarial losses included in net periodic benefit cost (see Note 14).
	(d)	Relates to foreign currency cash flow hedges that were reclassified from AOCI to other expense, net or cost of products sold and forward starting interest rate derivative instruments that were reclassified from AOCI to interest expense, net (see Note 9).																(d)	Relates to foreign currency cash flow hedges that were reclassified from AOCI to other expense, net or cost of products sold and forward starting interest rate derivative instruments that were reclassified from AOCI to interest expense, net (see Note 9).

Segment_and_Geographic_Informa1

Segment and Geographic Information (Tables)	3 Months Ended							12 Months Ended
	Jul. 25, 2014							Apr. 25, 2014
Segment Reporting [Abstract]	'							'
Reconciliation of Revenue from Segments to Consolidated	'							'
								Net sales of the Company’s reportable segments include end-customer revenues from the sale of products they each develop and manufacture or distribute. Net sales and earnings before income taxes by reportable segment are as follows:
	Net sales of Medtronic’s reportable segments include end-customer revenues from the sale of products they each develop and manufacture or distribute. Net sales and earnings before income taxes by reportable segment are as follows:
										Fiscal Year
								(in millions)		2014			2013			2012
		Three months ended						Cardiac and Vascular Group		$	8,847		$	8,695		$	8,482
	(in millions)	July 25,			July 26,			Restorative Therapies Group			6,501			6,369			6,221
		2014			2013			Diabetes Group			1,657			1,526			1,481
	Cardiac and Vascular Group	$	2,254		$	2,160
	Restorative Therapies Group		1,603			1,554		Total Net Sales		$	17,005		$	16,590		$	16,184
	Diabetes Group		416			369
	Total Net Sales	$	4,273		$	4,083
Reconciliation of Operating Profit (Loss) from Segments to Consolidated	'							'
		Three months ended								Fiscal Year
	(in millions)	July 25,			July 26,			(in millions)		2014			2013			2012
		2014			2013			Cardiac and Vascular Group		$	2,982		$	2,935		$	2,772
	Cardiac and Vascular Group	$	712		$	756		Restorative Therapies Group			1,821			1,778			1,707
	Restorative Therapies Group		410			421		Diabetes Group			457			432			396
	Diabetes Group		120			75
								Total Reportable Segments’ Earnings Before Income Taxes			5,260			5,145			4,875
	Total Reportable Segments’ Earnings Before Income Taxes		1,242			1,252		Special charges			(40	)		—			—
	Special charges		—			(40	)	Restructuring charges, net(a)			(88	)		(182	)		(87	)
	Restructuring charges, net		(30	)		(18	)	Certain litigation charges, net			(770	)		(245	)		(90	)
	Acquisition-related items		(41	)		96		Acquisition-related items			(117	)		49			(12	)
	Interest expense, net		(5	)		(40	)	Interest expense, net			(108	)		(151	)		(149	)
	Corporate		(83	)		(97	)	Corporate			(432	)		(365	)		(392	)
	Earnings Before Income Taxes	$	1,083		$	1,153		Total Earnings From Continuing Operations Before Income Taxes		$	3,705		$	4,251		$	4,145
								(a)	For fiscal years 2014 and 2013, restructuring charges, net within this table include the impact of amounts recorded within cost of products sold in the consolidated statements of earnings related to the fiscal year 2014 initiative and fiscal year 2013 initiative, respectively.
Schedule of Revenue from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets, by Geographical Areas	'							'
	Net sales to external customers by geography are as follows:							Net sales to external customers and property, plant, and equipment, net by geography are as follows:
		Three months ended						(in millions)		United States			Europe and			Asia Pacific			Other		Consolidated
	(in millions)	July 25,			July 26,								Canada						Foreign
		2014			2013			Fiscal Year 2014
	United States	$	2,333		$	2,206		Net sales to external customers		$	9,209		$	4,380		$	2,600		$	816	$	17,005
	Europe and Canada		1,081			1,046		Property, plant, and equipment, net		$	1,762		$	388		$	195		$	47	$	2,392
	Asia-Pacific		649			656		Fiscal Year 2013
	Other Foreign		210			175		Net sales to external customers		$	9,059		$	4,199		$	2,604		$	728	$	16,590
								Property, plant, and equipment, net		$	1,849		$	391		$	206		$	44	$	2,490
	Total Net Sales	$	4,273		$	4,083		Fiscal Year 2012
								Net sales to external customers		$	8,828		$	4,313		$	2,399		$	644	$	16,184
								Property, plant, and equipment, net		$	1,894		$	389		$	154		$	36	$	2,473
Reconciliation of Net Assets from Segments to Consolidated	'							'
								The following table presents the Company’s net assets by reportable segment:
								(in millions)		April 25,			April 26,
										2014			2013
								Cardiac and Vascular Group		$	6,578		$	6,941
								Restorative Therapies Group			9,604			10,058
								Diabetes Group			1,819			1,857
								Total Net Assets of Reportable Segments			18,001			18,856
								Short-term borrowings			(1,613	)		(910	)
								Long-term debt			(10,315	)		(9,741	)
								Corporate			13,370			10,466
								Total Net Assets		$	19,443		$	18,671

Summary_of_Significant_Account1

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Apr. 25, 2014
Accounting Policies [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Property, Plant and Equipment	'
	Property, plant, and equipment balances and corresponding lives are as follows:
	(in millions)	April 25,			April 26,			Lives
		2014			2013			(in years)
	Land and land improvements	$	152		$	151			Up to 20
	Buildings and leasehold improvements		1,565			1,532			Up to 40
	Equipment		4,409			4,110			7-Mar
	Construction in progress		313			359			—
	Subtotal		6,439			6,152
	Less: Accumulated depreciation		(4,047	)		(3,662	)
	Property, plant, and equipment, net	$	2,392		$	2,490

Income_Taxes_Tables

Income Taxes (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Apr. 25, 2014
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Components of Earnings from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Based on Tax Jurisdiction	'
	The components of earnings from continuing operations before income taxes, based on tax jurisdiction, are as follows:
		Fiscal Year
	(in millions)	2014			2013			2012
	U.S.	$	1,690		$	1,806		$	1,620
	International		2,015			2,445			2,525
	Earnings from continuing operations before income taxes	$	3,705		$	4,251		$	4,145
Provision for Income Taxes	'
	The provision for income taxes from continuing operations consists of the following:
		Fiscal Year
	(in millions)	2014			2013			2012
	Current tax expense:
	U.S.	$	532		$	509		$	664
	International		248			219			231
	Total current tax expense		780			728			895
	Deferred tax expense (benefit):
	U.S.		(175	)		46			(138	)
	International		35			10			(27	)
	Net deferred tax expense (benefit)		(140	)		56			(165	)
	Total provision for income taxes	$	640		$	784		$	730
Schedule of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities	'
	Tax assets (liabilities), shown before jurisdictional netting of deferred tax assets (liabilities), are comprised of the following:
	(in millions)	April 25, 2014			April 26, 2013
	Deferred tax assets:
	Net operating loss, capital loss, and credit carryforwards	$	487		$	423
	Other accrued liabilities		205			140
	Accrued compensation		201			98
	Pension and post-retirement benefits		194			239
	Stock-based compensation		171			223
	Other		142			200
	Inventory		118			121
	Federal and state benefit on uncertain tax positions		79			57
	Unrealized loss on available-for-sale securities and derivative financial instruments		29			—
	Gross deferred tax assets		1,626			1,501
	Valuation allowance		(397	)		(313	)
	Total deferred tax assets		1,229			1,188
	Deferred tax liabilities:
	Intangible assets		(652	)		(712	)
	Basis impairment		(225	)		(214	)
	Realized loss on derivative financial instruments		(110	)		(110	)
	Other		(24	)		(29	)
	Accumulated depreciation		(20	)		(56	)
	Unrealized gain on available-for-sale securities and derivative financial instruments		—			(87	)
	Total deferred tax liabilities		(1,031	)		(1,208	)
	Prepaid income taxes		320			321
	Income tax receivables		113			114
	Tax assets, net	$	631		$	415
	Reported as (after valuation allowance and jurisdictional netting):
	Tax assets	$	736		$	539
	Long-term tax assets		300			232
	Deferred tax liabilities		(19	)		(16	)
	Long-term deferred tax liabilities		(386	)		(340	)
	Tax assets, net	$	631		$	415
Schedule of Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation	'
	The Company’s effective income tax rate from continuing operations varied from the U.S. federal statutory tax rate as follows:
		Fiscal Year
		2014			2013			2012
	U.S. federal statutory tax rate		35	%		35	%		35	%
	Increase (decrease) in tax rate resulting from:
	U.S. state taxes, net of federal tax benefit		0.6			0.5			0.9
	Research and development credit		(0.5	)		(1.1	)		(0.6	)
	Domestic production activities		(0.4	)		(0.3	)		(0.5	)
	International		(17.7	)		(16.7	)		(16.9	)
	Puerto Rico Excise Tax		(1.6	)		(1.3	)		(1.4	)
	Impact of restructuring charges, net, certain litigation charges, net, and acquisition-related items		5.6			2			0.3
	Reversal of excess tax accruals		(1.9	)		—			(0.8	)
	Valuation allowance release		—			(0.2	)		(0.8	)
	Other, net		(1.8	)		0.5			2.4
	Effective tax rate		17.3	%		18.4	%		17.6	%
Reconciliation of Beginning and Ending Amount of Unrecognized Tax Benefits	'
	A reconciliation of the beginning and ending amount of unrecognized tax benefits for fiscal years 2014, 2013, and 2012 is as follows:
		Fiscal Year
	(in millions)	2014			2013			2012
	Gross unrecognized tax benefits at beginning of fiscal year	$	1,068		$	917		$	769
	Gross increases:
	Prior year tax positions		64			12			47
	Current year tax positions		166			169			171
	Gross decreases:
	Prior year tax positions		(58	)		(21	)		(53	)
	Settlements		(66	)		(6	)		(4	)
	Statute of limitation lapses		(2	)		(3	)		(13	)
	Gross unrecognized tax benefits at end of fiscal year	$	1,172		$	1,068		$	917

Leases_Tables

Leases (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Apr. 25, 2014
Leases [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Future Minimum Lease Payments for Capital Leases and Operating Leases	'
	Future minimum payments under capitalized leases and non-cancelable operating leases at April 25, 2014 are:
	(in millions)	Capitalized			Operating
	Fiscal Year	Leases			Leases
	2015	$	18		$	112
	2016		17			77
	2017		34			45
	2018		22			21
	2019		22			13
	Thereafter		64			23
	Total minimum lease payments	$	177		$	291
	Less amounts representing interest		(24	)		N/A
	Present value of net minimum lease payments	$	153			N/A

Discontinued_Operations_Tables

Discontinued Operations (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Apr. 25, 2014
Discontinued Operations and Disposal Groups [Abstract]	'
Summary of Operating Results for Discontinued Operations before Tax	'
	The following is a summary of the operating results of Physio-Control for discontinued operations for fiscal year 2012:
	(in millions)	2012
	Discontinued operations:
	Net sales	$	323
	Earnings from operations of Physio-Control	$	48
	Physio-Control divestiture-related costs		(42	)
	Gain on sale of Physio-Control		218
	Income tax expense		(22	)
	Earnings from discontinued operations	$	202

Quarterly_Financial_Data_unaud1

Quarterly Financial Data (unaudited) (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Apr. 25, 2014
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Quarterly Financial Data	'
	(in millions,		First Quarter		Second Quarter		Third Quarter		Fourth Quarter		Fiscal Year
	except per share data)
	Net Sales
		2014	$	4,083	$	4,194	$	4,163	$	4,566	$	17,005
		2013		4,008		4,095		4,027		4,459		16,590
	Gross Profit
		2014	$	3,061	$	3,104	$	3,113	$	3,395	$	12,672
		2013		3,035		3,075		3,028		3,325		12,464
	Net Earnings
		2014	$	953	$	902	$	762	$	448	$	3,065
		2013		864		646		988		969		3,467
	Basic Earnings per Share
		2014	$	0.94	$	0.9	$	0.76	$	0.45		3.06
		2013		0.84		0.63		0.98		0.96		3.4
	Diluted Earnings per Share
		2014	$	0.93	$	0.89	$	0.75	$	0.44		3.02
		2013		0.83		0.63		0.97		0.95		3.37

Acquisitions_and_AcquisitionRe2

Acquisitions and Acquisition-Related Items (Detail) (USD $)

3 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

0 Months Ended

0 Months Ended

0 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

0 Months Ended

0 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

0 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

0 Months Ended

0 Months Ended

0 Months Ended

0 Months Ended

0 Months Ended

0 Months Ended

0 Months Ended

Jul. 25, 2014

Jul. 26, 2013

Apr. 25, 2014

Apr. 26, 2013

Apr. 27, 2012

Jun. 13, 2014

Jun. 13, 2014

Apr. 25, 2014

Apr. 26, 2013

Apr. 27, 2012

Apr. 26, 2013

Dec. 30, 2013

Dec. 30, 2013

Dec. 30, 2013

Dec. 30, 2013

Dec. 30, 2013

Dec. 30, 2013

Nov. 01, 2012

Apr. 25, 2014

Apr. 26, 2013

Nov. 01, 2012

Nov. 01, 2012

Aug. 07, 2013

Aug. 07, 2013

Aug. 07, 2013

Apr. 25, 2014

Apr. 25, 2014

Apr. 25, 2014

Aug. 31, 2011

Aug. 31, 2011

Apr. 27, 2012

Apr. 27, 2012

Jun. 15, 2014

Jun. 13, 2014

Jun. 15, 2014

Jun. 15, 2014

Jul. 25, 2014

Jul. 25, 2014

Jul. 25, 2014

Jul. 25, 2014

Jun. 20, 2014

Jun. 20, 2014

Jun. 20, 2014

Jun. 20, 2014

Aug. 26, 2014

Aug. 26, 2014

Aug. 25, 2014

Subsequent Event

Change in the Amount of Contingent Consideration

Change in the Amount of Contingent Consideration

Change in the Amount of Contingent Consideration

Impairment of Acquired in Process Research and Development

TYRX

TYRX

TYRX

TYRX

TYRX

TYRX

China Kanghui Holdings

China Kanghui Holdings

China Kanghui Holdings

China Kanghui Holdings

China Kanghui Holdings

Cardiocom

Cardiocom

Cardiocom

Ardian

Ardian

Ardian

Salient

PEAK

Salient Surgical Technologies - Gain on Previously Held Investment

Peak Surgical - Gain on Previously Held Investment

Covidien PLC

Covidien PLC

Covidien PLC

New Medtronic

Visualase

Visualase

Visualase

Visualase

Corventis

Corventis

Corventis

Corventis

NGC Medical SpA

NGC Medical SpA

Sapiens Steering Brain Stimulation

Technology-Based Intangible Assets

Technology-Based Intangible Assets

Product development-based payments

Revenue-based payments

Technology-Based

Trade Names

Customer-Related Intangible Assets

Customer-Related Intangibles

Impairment of Long-Lived Assets

Impairment of Acquired in Process Research and Development

Impairment of Long-Lived Assets other than Acquired in Process Research and Development

Subsequent Event

Covidien PLC

Technology-Based Intangible Assets

Technology-Based Intangible Assets

Technology-Based Intangible Assets

Technology-Based Intangible Assets

Subsequent Event

Subsequent Event

Subsequent Event

Business Acquisition [Line Items]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Cash Consideration Transferred Per Share

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

$35.19

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Number of Securities Called by Each Share

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

0.956

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Cash and stock value of pending acquisition

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

$42,900,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Share price

'

'

'

'

'

$60.70

$60.70

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Noncontrolling Interest, Ownership Percentage by Noncontrolling Owners

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

30.00%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Transaction termination fee

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

850,000,000

'

850,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Total consideration

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

222,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

816,000,000

'

'

'

'

193,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

497,000,000

113,000,000

'

'

'

'

42,900,000,000

'

97,000,000

'

'

'

131,000,000

'

'

'

238,000,000

'

200,000,000

Intangible assets

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

94,000,000

'

94,000,000

'

'

341,000,000

'

'

'

'

61,000,000

61,000,000

'

'

'

'

154,000,000

74,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

66,000,000

'

'

'

80,000,000

'

'

'

Goodwill

10,696,000,000

'

10,593,000,000

10,329,000,000

9,934,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

132,000,000

'

'

'

'

409,000,000

'

'

'

'

123,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

348,000,000

56,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

49,000,000

'

'

'

50,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

Other Disclosures

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Finite-lived intangible asset, useful life

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'14 years

'

'

'

'11 years

'

'

'

'

'

'

'7 years

'

'

'

'12 years

'12 years

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'10 years

'

'

'

'16 years

'

'

'

'

Finite-lived intangibles

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

288,000,000

53,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

74,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Settlement of outstanding debt to Medtronic included in consideration

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

50,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

Payments to Acquire Business, Net of Cash Acquired

146,000,000

17,000,000

385,000,000

820,000,000

556,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

159,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Contingent consideration

87,000,000

45,000,000

68,000,000

142,000,000

231,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

25,000,000

35,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Business Combination, Contingent Consideration Arrangements, Range of Outcomes, Value, High

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

40,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Current assets

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

6,000,000

'

'

'

'

106,000,000

'

'

'

'

14,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

20,000,000

5,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Property, plant, and equipment

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

1,000,000

'

'

'

'

56,000,000

'

'

'

'

7,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

11,000,000

5,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Total assets acquired

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

233,000,000

'

'

'

'

923,000,000

'

'

'

'

205,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

578,000,000

140,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Current liabilities

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

4,000,000

'

'

'

'

29,000,000

'

'

'

'

12,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

43,000,000

10,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Long-term deferred tax liabilities, net

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

7,000,000

'

'

'

'

77,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

38,000,000

17,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Total liabilities assumed

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

11,000,000

'

'

'

'

107,000,000

'

'

'

'

12,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

81,000,000

27,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Net assets acquired

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

222,000,000

'

'

'

'

816,000,000

'

'

'

'

193,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

497,000,000

113,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Preexisting Relationship, Ownership Percentage

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

8.90%

18.90%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

30.00%

'

Acquisition-related items

41,000,000

-96,000,000

117,000,000

-49,000,000

12,000,000

'

'

138,000,000

-62,000,000

45,000,000

5,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

13,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

236,000,000

192,000,000

44,000,000

'

'

32,000,000

6,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Transaction value net of acquired cash

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

797,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

IPR&D

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

44,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Other assets

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

11,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

1,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Other long-term liabilities

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

1,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Acquisition date

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

1-Nov-12

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Change in fair value of contingent consideration

-1,000,000

96,000,000

138,000,000

62,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Net value of acquistion transaction

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

$452,000,000

$96,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Acquisitions_and_AcquisitionRe3

Acquisitions and Acquisition-Related Items, Contingent Consideration (Detail) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Jul. 25, 2014	Jul. 26, 2013	Apr. 25, 2014	Apr. 26, 2013
Fair Value Inputs	'	'	'	'
Contingent consideration	$87	$45	$68	$142
Reconciliation of Beginning and Ending Balances of Contingent Milestone Payments Associated with Acquisitions	'	'	'	'
Beginning Balance	68	142	142	231
Purchase price contingent consideration	23	0	65	3
Contingent milestone payments	-5	-1	-1	-30
Change in fair value of contingent consideration	1	-96	-138	-62
Ending balance	87	45	68	142
Other Long-term Liabilities	'	'	'	'
Fair Value Inputs	'	'	'	'
Contingent consideration	68	'	51	120
Reconciliation of Beginning and Ending Balances of Contingent Milestone Payments Associated with Acquisitions	'	'	'	'
Ending balance	68	'	51	120
Other Accrued Expenses	'	'	'	'
Fair Value Inputs	'	'	'	'
Contingent consideration	19	'	17	22
Reconciliation of Beginning and Ending Balances of Contingent Milestone Payments Associated with Acquisitions	'	'	'	'
Ending balance	19	'	17	22
Business combinations or purchases of intellectual property prior to April 24, 2009	'	'	'	'
Fair Value Inputs	'	'	'	'
Business Combination, Contingent Consideration Arrangements, Range of Outcomes, Value, High	198	'	199	'
Recurring	'	'	'	'
Fair Value Inputs	'	'	'	'
Contingent consideration	87	'	68	142
Reconciliation of Beginning and Ending Balances of Contingent Milestone Payments Associated with Acquisitions	'	'	'	'
Ending balance	87	'	68	142
Recurring | Level 3	'	'	'	'
Fair Value Inputs	'	'	'	'
Contingent consideration	87	'	68	142
Reconciliation of Beginning and Ending Balances of Contingent Milestone Payments Associated with Acquisitions	'	'	'	'
Ending balance	87	'	68	142
Revenue-based payments | Recurring | Level 3	'	'	'	'
Fair Value Inputs	'	'	'	'
Probability of payment	100.00%	'	100.00%	'
Revenue-based payments | Discounted Cash Flow | Recurring | Level 3	'	'	'	'
Fair Value Inputs	'	'	'	'
Contingent consideration	62	'	43	'
Reconciliation of Beginning and Ending Balances of Contingent Milestone Payments Associated with Acquisitions	'	'	'	'
Ending balance	62	'	43	'
Product development-based payments | Recurring | Level 3	'	'	'	'
Fair Value Inputs	'	'	'	'
Discount rate	5.50%	'	5.50%	'
Probability of payment	75.00%	'	'	'
Projected fiscal year of payment	'2018	'	'	'
Product development-based payments | Discounted Cash Flow | Recurring | Level 3	'	'	'	'
Fair Value Inputs	'	'	'	'
Contingent consideration	25	'	25	'
Reconciliation of Beginning and Ending Balances of Contingent Milestone Payments Associated with Acquisitions	'	'	'	'
Ending balance	$25	'	$25	'
Minimum | Revenue-based payments | Recurring | Level 3	'	'	'	'
Fair Value Inputs	'	'	'	'
Discount rate	13.50%	'	13.50%	'
Projected fiscal year of payment	'2015	'	'2015	'
Minimum | Product development-based payments | Recurring | Level 3	'	'	'	'
Fair Value Inputs	'	'	'	'
Probability of payment	'	'	75.00%	'
Projected fiscal year of payment	'	'	'2015	'
Maximum | Revenue-based payments | Recurring | Level 3	'	'	'	'
Fair Value Inputs	'	'	'	'
Discount rate	24.00%	'	24.00%	'
Projected fiscal year of payment	'2019	'	'2019	'
Maximum | Product development-based payments | Recurring | Level 3	'	'	'	'
Fair Value Inputs	'	'	'	'
Probability of payment	'	'	100.00%	'
Projected fiscal year of payment	'	'	'2018	'

Special_Charges_and_Certain_Li1

Special Charges and Certain Litigation Charges, Net Special Charges (Detail) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Jul. 25, 2014	Jul. 26, 2013	Apr. 25, 2014	Apr. 26, 2013	Apr. 27, 2012
Special Charges [Abstract]	'	'	'	'	'
Special Charges	$0	$40	$40	$0	$0

Certain_Litigation_Charges_Net

Certain Litigation Charges, Net (Detail) (USD $)

3 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

0 Months Ended

3 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

3 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

Jul. 25, 2014

Jul. 26, 2013

Apr. 25, 2014

Apr. 26, 2013

Apr. 27, 2012

Feb. 28, 2013

Oct. 26, 2012

Apr. 25, 2014

Apr. 26, 2013

Apr. 25, 2014

Apr. 27, 2012

Apr. 27, 2012

Litigation with Edwards Lifesciences Corporation

Litigation with Edwards Lifesciences Corporation

Litigation with Edwards Lifesciences Corporation

Litigation with Edwards Lifesciences Corporation

INFUSE Product Liability Litigation

Federal Securities Class Action Initiated by Minneapolis Firefighters' Relief Association

Federal Securities Class Action Initiated by Minneapolis Firefighters' Relief Association

Loss Contingencies

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Payments for Legal Settlements

$761,000,000

$0

$15,000,000

$175,000,000

$241,000,000

$84,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

Certain litigation charges, net

'

'

770,000,000

245,000,000

90,000,000

'

245,000,000

589,000,000

245,000,000

140,000,000

'

90,000,000

Settlement amount

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

85,000,000

'

Litigation fees

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

$5,000,000

'

Restructuring_Charges_Detail

Restructuring Charges (Detail) (USD $)

3 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

3 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

3 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

3 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

3 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

3 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

3 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

3 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

3 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

3 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

3 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

3 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

In Millions, unless otherwise specified

Jul. 25, 2014

Apr. 25, 2014

Apr. 25, 2014

Jul. 25, 2014

Apr. 25, 2014

Apr. 25, 2014

Jul. 25, 2014

Apr. 25, 2014

Apr. 25, 2014

Apr. 25, 2014

Apr. 25, 2014

Apr. 25, 2014

Jul. 25, 2014

Apr. 25, 2014

Apr. 25, 2014

Jul. 25, 2014

Jul. 26, 2013

Apr. 26, 2013

Apr. 25, 2014

Apr. 26, 2013

Jul. 25, 2014

Apr. 26, 2013

Apr. 25, 2014

Apr. 26, 2013

Apr. 26, 2013

Apr. 25, 2014

Apr. 26, 2013

Jul. 26, 2013

Apr. 26, 2013

Jul. 25, 2014

Jul. 26, 2013

Apr. 26, 2013

Apr. 26, 2013

Jul. 25, 2014

Apr. 25, 2014

Apr. 26, 2013

Apr. 26, 2013

Apr. 27, 2012

Apr. 25, 2014

Apr. 26, 2013

Apr. 27, 2012

Apr. 27, 2012

Apr. 25, 2014

Apr. 26, 2013

Apr. 27, 2012

Apr. 27, 2012

Apr. 25, 2014

Apr. 26, 2013

Apr. 27, 2012

Apr. 27, 2012

Apr. 27, 2012

Apr. 25, 2014

Apr. 26, 2013

Apr. 27, 2012

Fiscal Year 2014 Initiative

Fiscal Year 2014 Initiative

Fiscal Year 2014 Initiative

Fiscal Year 2014 Initiative

Fiscal Year 2014 Initiative

Fiscal Year 2014 Initiative

Fiscal Year 2014 Initiative

Fiscal Year 2014 Initiative

Fiscal Year 2014 Initiative

Fiscal Year 2014 Initiative

Fiscal Year 2014 Initiative

Fiscal Year 2014 Initiative

Fiscal Year 2014 Initiative

Fiscal Year 2014 Initiative

Fiscal Year 2014 Initiative

Fiscal Year 2013 Initiative

Fiscal Year 2013 Initiative

Fiscal Year 2013 Initiative

Fiscal Year 2013 Initiative

Fiscal Year 2013 Initiative

Fiscal Year 2013 Initiative

Fiscal Year 2013 Initiative

Fiscal Year 2013 Initiative

Fiscal Year 2013 Initiative

Fiscal Year 2013 Initiative

Fiscal Year 2013 Initiative

Fiscal Year 2013 Initiative

Fiscal Year 2013 Initiative

Fiscal Year 2013 Initiative

Fiscal Year 2013 Initiative

Fiscal Year 2013 Initiative

Fiscal Year 2013 Initiative

Fiscal Year 2013 Initiative

Fiscal Year 2013 Initiative

Fiscal Year 2013 Initiative

Fiscal Year 2013 Initiative

Fiscal Year 2012 Initiative

Fiscal Year 2012 Initiative

Fiscal Year 2012 Initiative

Fiscal Year 2012 Initiative

Fiscal Year 2012 Initiative

Fiscal Year 2012 Initiative

Fiscal Year 2012 Initiative

Fiscal Year 2012 Initiative

Fiscal Year 2012 Initiative

Fiscal Year 2012 Initiative

Fiscal Year 2012 Initiative

Fiscal Year 2012 Initiative

Fiscal Year 2012 Initiative

Fiscal Year 2012 Initiative

Fiscal Year 2012 Initiative

Fiscal Year 2012 Initiative

Fiscal Year 2012 Initiative

Fiscal Year 2012 Initiative

Position

Employee Termination Costs

Employee Termination Costs

Employee Termination Costs

Asset Write-downs

Asset Write-downs

Asset Write-downs

Contract Termination

Other Restructuring

Inventory Write-Offs

Contract Termination and Other Costs

Contract Termination and Other Costs

Contract Termination and Other Costs

Position

Employee Termination Costs

Employee Termination Costs

Employee Termination Costs

Employee Termination Costs

Asset Write-downs

Asset Write-downs

Asset Write-downs

Contract Termination

Contract Termination

Other Restructuring

Other Restructuring

Other Restructuring

Inventory Write-Offs

Contract Termination and Other Costs

Contract Termination and Other Costs

Contract Termination and Other Costs

Position

Employee Termination Costs

Employee Termination Costs

Employee Termination Costs

Employee Termination Costs

Asset Write-downs

Asset Write-downs

Asset Write-downs

Asset Write-downs

Contract Termination

Other Restructuring

Contract Termination and Other Costs

Contract Termination and Other Costs

Contract Termination and Other Costs

Changes in Restructuring Reserves

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Balance as of

$75

'

$0

$64

'

$0

$0

'

$0

'

'

'

$11

'

$0

$24

$170

'

$170

$0

$23

'

$147

$0

'

$0

$0

'

'

'

'

'

'

$1

$23

$0

'

'

$4

$91

$0

'

$0

$64

$0

'

$0

$0

$0

'

'

$4

$27

$0

Restructuring Charges

38

116

116

1

65

65

9

26

26

3

22

10

28

28

25

'

18

192

18

192

'

150

0

150

13

0

13

14

18

4

4

11

10

'

18

29

'

118

'

'

118

66

'

'

66

9

'

'

9

30

13

'

'

43

Payments/Write-downs

-45

'

-41

-17

'

-1

-9

'

-26

'

'

'

-19

'

-14

-6

'

'

-118

-22

-5

'

-79

-3

'

0

-13

'

'

'

'

'

'

-1

-39

-6

'

'

-4

-77

-27

'

0

-54

-2

'

0

0

-9

'

'

-4

-23

-16

Restructuring Reserve, Accrual Adjustment

-6

'

'

-6

'

'

0

'

'

'

'

'

0

'

'

-2

'

'

-46

'

-2

'

-45

'

'

0

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

0

-1

'

-10

'

'

-10

'

'

'

-10

'

'

'

0

'

'

'

'

0

'

Balance as of

$62

$75

$75

$42

$64

$64

$0

$0

$0

'

'

'

$20

$11

$11

$16

'

$170

$24

$170

$16

$147

$23

$147

$0

$0

$0

'

'

'

'

'

'

$0

$1

$23

$4

$91

$0

$4

$91

$64

$0

$0

$64

$0

$0

$0

$0

'

'

$0

$4

$27

Expected number of positions eliminated

'

600

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

2,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

1,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Investments_Investments_Portfo

Investments , Investments Portfolio and AFS Continuous Unrealized Loss Position (Detail) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Jul. 25, 2014	Jul. 26, 2013	Apr. 25, 2014		Apr. 26, 2013		Apr. 27, 2012
Trading securities	'	'	'		'		'
Aggregate carrying amount of investments in equity and other securities that are accounted for using the cost or equity method	$618	'	$666		$549		'
Short-term and long-term investments, cost	13,354	'	13,659		10,896		'
Short-term and long-term investments, unrealized gains	160	'	108		185		'
Short-term and long-term investments, unrealized losses	-75	'	-108		-27		'
Short-term and long-term investments, fair value	12,821	'	12,993		10,505		'
AFS Continuous Unrealized Loss Position	'	'	'		'		'
Less than 12 months, fair value	2,782	'	5,032		1,044		'
Available-For-Sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less Than 12 Months, Accumulated Loss	-27	'	-90		-5		'
More than 12 months, fair value	1,630	'	221		160		'
Available-For-Sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months Or Longer, Accumulated Loss	-48	'	-18		-22		'
AFS OTTI Losses	'	'	'		'		'
Total OTTI losses recognized	'	'	'		'		6
OTTI losses recognized in OCI	'	'	'		'		4
OTTI losses recognized in earnings	'	'	'		'		2
Salient and PEAK	'	'	'		'		'
AFS Gross Realized Gain (Loss)	'	'	'		'		'
Gain on previously held investments	'	'	'		'		38
Debt Securities	'	'	'		'		'
AFS Gross Realized Gain (Loss)	'	'	'		'		'
Proceeds from sales	1,830	2,163	7,991	[1]	10,350	[1]	7,675	[1]
Gross realized gains	11	6	15	[1]	59	[1]	52	[1]
Gross realized losses	-3	-5	-12	[1]	-17	[1]	-16	[1]
Impairment losses recognized	0	0	-1	[1]	0	[1]	-2	[1]
Equity Securities	'	'	'		'		'
AFS Gross Realized Gain (Loss)	'	'	'		'		'
Proceeds from sales	23	32	120	[2]	161	[2]	113	[2],[3]
Gross realized gains	19	18	69	[2]	94	[2]	93	[2],[3]
Gross realized losses	0	0	0	[2]	0	[2]	0	[2],[3]
Impairment losses recognized	-1	0	-9	[2]	-21	[2]	-10	[2],[3]
Exchange Traded Funds	'	'	'		'		'
Investment [Line Items]	'	'	'		'		'
Trading securities, cost	54	'	54		45		'
Trading securities, unrealized gains	15	'	13		5		'
Trading securities, unrealized losses	0	'	0		0		'
Trading securities, fair value	69	'	67		50		'
Corporate Debt Securities	'	'	'		'		'
Investment [Line Items]	'	'	'		'		'
Available-for-sale securities, cost	5,429	'	5,504		4,587		'
Available-For-Sale Securities, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Gain, Before Tax	65	'	55		78		'
Available-For-Sale Securities, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Loss, Before Tax	-10	'	-17		-4		'
Available-for-sale securities, fair value	5,484	'	5,542		4,661		'
AFS Continuous Unrealized Loss Position	'	'	'		'		'
Less than 12 months, fair value	1,200	'	1,601		544		'
Available-For-Sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less Than 12 Months, Accumulated Loss	-5	'	-14		-1		'
More than 12 months, fair value	273	'	50		13		'
Available-For-Sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months Or Longer, Accumulated Loss	-5	'	-3		-3		'
Auction Rate Securities	'	'	'		'		'
Investment [Line Items]	'	'	'		'		'
Available-for-sale securities, cost	109	'	109		118		'
Available-For-Sale Securities, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Gain, Before Tax	0	'	0		0		'
Available-For-Sale Securities, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Loss, Before Tax	-10	'	-12		-15		'
Available-for-sale securities, fair value	99	'	97		103		'
AFS Continuous Unrealized Loss Position	'	'	'		'		'
Less than 12 months, fair value	0	'	0		0		'
Available-For-Sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less Than 12 Months, Accumulated Loss	0	'	0		0		'
More than 12 months, fair value	99	'	97		103		'
Available-For-Sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months Or Longer, Accumulated Loss	-10	'	-12		-15		'
Mortgage Backed Securities	'	'	'		'		'
Investment [Line Items]	'	'	'		'		'
Available-for-sale securities, cost	1,252	'	1,337		1,050		'
Available-For-Sale Securities, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Gain, Before Tax	10	'	7		8		'
Available-For-Sale Securities, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Loss, Before Tax	-8	'	-8		-5		'
Available-for-sale securities, fair value	1,254	'	1,336		1,053		'
AFS Continuous Unrealized Loss Position	'	'	'		'		'
Less than 12 months, fair value	353	'	682		195		'
Available-For-Sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less Than 12 Months, Accumulated Loss	-3	'	-7		-1		'
More than 12 months, fair value	333	'	28		44		'
Available-For-Sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months Or Longer, Accumulated Loss	-5	'	-1		-4		'
US Government and Agency Securities	'	'	'		'		'
Investment [Line Items]	'	'	'		'		'
Available-for-sale securities, cost	2,748	'	3,138		3,882		'
Available-For-Sale Securities, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Gain, Before Tax	7	'	7		17		'
Available-For-Sale Securities, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Loss, Before Tax	-22	'	-29		-1		'
Available-for-sale securities, fair value	2,733	'	3,116		3,898		'
AFS Continuous Unrealized Loss Position	'	'	'		'		'
Less than 12 months, fair value	754	'	1,500		291		'
Available-For-Sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less Than 12 Months, Accumulated Loss	-1	'	-27		-1		'
More than 12 months, fair value	784	'	46		0		'
Available-For-Sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months Or Longer, Accumulated Loss	-21	'	-2		0		'
Foreign Government Debt Securities	'	'	'		'		'
Investment [Line Items]	'	'	'		'		'
Available-for-sale securities, cost	78	'	67		38		'
Available-For-Sale Securities, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Gain, Before Tax	0	'	0		0		'
Available-For-Sale Securities, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Loss, Before Tax	0	'	0		0		'
Available-for-sale securities, fair value	78	'	67		38		'
Certificates of Deposit	'	'	'		'		'
Investment [Line Items]	'	'	'		'		'
Available-for-sale securities, cost	71	'	54		6		'
Available-For-Sale Securities, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Gain, Before Tax	0	'	0		0		'
Available-For-Sale Securities, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Loss, Before Tax	0	'	0		0		'
Available-for-sale securities, fair value	71	'	54		6		'
Asset-backed Securities	'	'	'		'		'
Investment [Line Items]	'	'	'		'		'
Available-for-sale securities, cost	497	'	540		539		'
Available-For-Sale Securities, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Gain, Before Tax	1	'	2		2		'
Available-For-Sale Securities, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Loss, Before Tax	0	'	0		0		'
Available-for-sale securities, fair value	498	'	542		541		'
Debt Funds	'	'	'		'		'
Investment [Line Items]	'	'	'		'		'
Available-for-sale securities, cost	2,446	'	2,143		'		'
Available-For-Sale Securities, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Gain, Before Tax	48	'	9		'		'
Available-For-Sale Securities, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Loss, Before Tax	-8	'	-29		'		'
Available-for-sale securities, fair value	2,486	'	2,123		'		'
AFS Continuous Unrealized Loss Position	'	'	'		'		'
Less than 12 months, fair value	454	'	1,224		'		'
Available-For-Sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less Than 12 Months, Accumulated Loss	-1	'	-29		'		'
More than 12 months, fair value	141	'	0		'		'
Available-For-Sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months Or Longer, Accumulated Loss	-7	'	0		'		'
Available for Sale Securities	'	'	'		'		'
Investment [Line Items]	'	'	'		'		'
Available-for-sale securities, cost	52	'	47		82		'
Available-For-Sale Securities, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Gain, Before Tax	14	'	15		75		'
Available-For-Sale Securities, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Loss, Before Tax	-17	'	-13		-2		'
Available-for-sale securities, fair value	49	'	49		155		'
AFS Continuous Unrealized Loss Position	'	'	'		'		'
Less than 12 months, fair value	21	'	25		14		'
Available-For-Sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less Than 12 Months, Accumulated Loss	-17	'	-13		-2		'
More than 12 months, fair value	'	'	'		0		'
Available-For-Sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, 12 Months Or Longer, Accumulated Loss	$0	'	$0		$0		'
[1]	Includes available-for-sale debt securities.
[2]	Includes marketable equity securities, cost method, equity method, exchange-traded funds, and other investments.
[3]	As a result of the Salient and PEAK acquisitions that occurred during fiscal year 2012, the Company recognized a non-cash gain of $38 million on its previously-held minority investments.

Investments_Marketable_Securit

Investments , Marketable Securities, Credit Losses on and Maturities of Debt Securities (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Apr. 25, 2014	Apr. 26, 2013	Jul. 25, 2014
Available-for-sale securities	'	'	'
Investments	$12,838	$10,211	$12,626
Long-term Investments	821	843	813
Credit Loss Portion of Other-than-temporary Impairments on Debt Securities	'	'	'
Ending balance	4	9	4
Beginning Balance	9	20	4
Reductions for securities sold during the period	5	11	'
Ending Balance	4	9	4
AFS Debt Maturities	'	'	'
Due in one year or less	1,412	'	1,426
Due after one year through five years	6,368	'	5,961
Due after five years through 10 years	2,859	'	2,689
Due after 10 years	115	'	141
Total debt securities	10,754	'	10,217
Investments	'	'	'
Available-for-sale securities	'	'	'
Available-for-sale securities, fair value	12,771	'	12,557
Trading securities	67	50	69
Cost method, equity method, and other investments	0	0	0
Other Assets	'	'	'
Available-for-sale securities	'	'	'
Available-for-sale securities, fair value	155	'	195
Trading securities	0	0	0
Cost method, equity method, and other investments	$666	$549	$618

Investments_Other_Disclosures_

Investments , Other Disclosures (Detail) (USD $)	Jul. 25, 2014	Apr. 25, 2014	Apr. 26, 2013
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Investments [Abstract]	'	'	'
Aggregate carrying amount of investments in equity and other securities that are accounted for using the cost or equity method	$618	$666	$549

Fair_Value_Measurements_Fair_V

Fair Value Measurements, Fair Value Measured on Recurring Basis (Detail) (USD $)	Jul. 25, 2014	Apr. 25, 2014	Jul. 26, 2013	Apr. 26, 2013	Apr. 27, 2012
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Liabilities:	'	'	'	'	'
Contingent consideration	$87	$68	$45	$142	$231
Recurring	'	'	'	'	'
Assets:	'	'	'	'	'
Corporate debt securities	5,484	5,542	'	4,661	'
Auction rate securities	99	97	'	103	'
Mortgage-backed securities	1,254	1,336	'	1,053	'
U.S. government and agency securities	2,733	3,116	'	3,898	'
Foreign government and agency securities	78	67	'	38	'
Certificates of deposit	71	54	'	6	'
Other asset-backed securities	498	542	'	541	'
Debt Funds	2,486	2,123	'	'	'
Marketable equity securities	49	49	'	155	'
Exchange-traded funds	69	67	'	50	'
Derivative assets	176	175	'	394	'
Total assets	12,997	13,168	'	10,899	'
Liabilities:	'	'	'	'	'
Derivative liabilities	68	127	'	58	'
Contingent consideration	87	68	'	142	'
Total liabilities	155	195	'	200	'
Recurring | Level 1	'	'	'	'	'
Assets:	'	'	'	'	'
Corporate debt securities	0	0	'	0	'
Auction rate securities	0	0	'	0	'
Mortgage-backed securities	0	0	'	0	'
U.S. government and agency securities	1,135	1,251	'	1,833	'
Foreign government and agency securities	0	0	'	0	'
Certificates of deposit	0	0	'	0	'
Other asset-backed securities	0	0	'	0	'
Debt Funds	0	0	'	'	'
Marketable equity securities	49	49	'	155	'
Exchange-traded funds	69	67	'	50	'
Derivative assets	96	89	'	213	'
Total assets	1,349	1,456	'	2,251	'
Liabilities:	'	'	'	'	'
Derivative liabilities	68	116	'	40	'
Contingent consideration	0	0	'	0	'
Total liabilities	68	116	'	40	'
Recurring | Level 2	'	'	'	'	'
Assets:	'	'	'	'	'
Corporate debt securities	5,475	5,533	'	4,651	'
Auction rate securities	0	0	'	0	'
Mortgage-backed securities	1,254	1,336	'	1,039	'
U.S. government and agency securities	1,598	1,865	'	2,065	'
Foreign government and agency securities	78	67	'	38	'
Certificates of deposit	71	54	'	6	'
Other asset-backed securities	498	542	'	541	'
Debt Funds	2,486	2,123	'	'	'
Marketable equity securities	0	0	'	0	'
Exchange-traded funds	0	0	'	0	'
Derivative assets	80	86	'	181	'
Total assets	11,540	11,606	'	8,521	'
Liabilities:	'	'	'	'	'
Derivative liabilities	0	11	'	18	'
Contingent consideration	0	0	'	0	'
Total liabilities	0	11	'	18	'
Recurring | Level 3	'	'	'	'	'
Assets:	'	'	'	'	'
Corporate debt securities	9	9	'	10	'
Auction rate securities	99	97	'	103	'
Mortgage-backed securities	0	0	'	14	'
U.S. government and agency securities	0	0	'	0	'
Foreign government and agency securities	0	0	'	0	'
Certificates of deposit	0	0	'	0	'
Other asset-backed securities	0	0	'	0	'
Debt Funds	0	0	'	'	'
Marketable equity securities	0	0	'	0	'
Exchange-traded funds	0	0	'	0	'
Derivative assets	0	0	'	0	'
Total assets	108	106	'	127	'
Liabilities:	'	'	'	'	'
Derivative liabilities	0	0	'	0	'
Contingent consideration	87	68	'	142	'
Total liabilities	$87	$68	'	$142	'

Fair_Value_Measurements_Valuat

Fair Value Measurements, Valuation Techniques (Detail) (Level 3, Recurring, USD $)	3 Months Ended		12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Jul. 25, 2014	Jul. 26, 2013	Apr. 25, 2014	Apr. 26, 2013
Reconciliation of Retirement Benefit Plan Assets Measured at Fair Value Using Significant Unobservable Inputs	'	'	'	'
Beginning balance	$106	$127	$127	$172
Total realized gains(losses) and other-than-temporary impairment losses included in earnings	'	'	-5	'
Total unrealized gains (losses) included in other comprehensive income	2	5	4	11
Settlements	'	'	-20	-56
Ending balance	108	132	106	127
Corporate Debt Securities	'	'	'	'
Reconciliation of Retirement Benefit Plan Assets Measured at Fair Value Using Significant Unobservable Inputs	'	'	'	'
Beginning balance	'	10	10	10
Total realized gains(losses) and other-than-temporary impairment losses included in earnings	'	'	0	'
Total unrealized gains (losses) included in other comprehensive income	'	'	0	0
Settlements	'	'	-1	0
Ending balance	9	10	9	10
Auction Rate Securities	'	'	'	'
Illiquidity premium	'	'	6.00%	'
Reconciliation of Retirement Benefit Plan Assets Measured at Fair Value Using Significant Unobservable Inputs	'	'	'	'
Beginning balance	97	103	103	127
Total realized gains(losses) and other-than-temporary impairment losses included in earnings	'	'	-5	'
Total unrealized gains (losses) included in other comprehensive income	2	4	3	11
Settlements	'	'	-4	-35
Ending balance	99	107	97	103
Auction Rate Securities | Minimum	'	'	'	'
Years to Principal Recovery	'	'	'2 years	'
Auction Rate Securities | Maximum	'	'	'	'
Years to Principal Recovery	'	'	'12 years	'
Auction Rate Securities | Weighted Average	'	'	'	'
Years to Principal Recovery	'	'	'3 years	'
Mortgage Backed Securities	'	'	'	'
Reconciliation of Retirement Benefit Plan Assets Measured at Fair Value Using Significant Unobservable Inputs	'	'	'	'
Beginning balance	'	14	14	29
Total realized gains(losses) and other-than-temporary impairment losses included in earnings	'	'	0	'
Total unrealized gains (losses) included in other comprehensive income	'	1	1	0
Settlements	'	'	-15	-15
Ending balance	'	15	0	14
Asset-backed Securities	'	'	'	'
Reconciliation of Retirement Benefit Plan Assets Measured at Fair Value Using Significant Unobservable Inputs	'	'	'	'
Beginning balance	'	0	0	6
Total realized gains(losses) and other-than-temporary impairment losses included in earnings	'	'	0	'
Total unrealized gains (losses) included in other comprehensive income	'	'	0	0
Settlements	'	'	0	-6
Ending balance	'	'	$0	$0
Discounted Cash Flow | Auction Rate Securities	'	'	'	'
Illiquidity premium	6.00%	'	'	'
Discounted Cash Flow | Auction Rate Securities | Minimum	'	'	'	'
Years to Principal Recovery	'2 years	'	'	'
Discounted Cash Flow | Auction Rate Securities | Maximum	'	'	'	'
Years to Principal Recovery	'12 years	'	'	'
Discounted Cash Flow | Auction Rate Securities | Weighted Average	'	'	'	'
Years to Principal Recovery	'3 years	'	'	'

Fair_Value_Measurements_Fair_V1

Fair Value Measurements, Fair Value Measured on Nonrecurring Basis and Financial Instruments Not Measured at Fair Value (Detail) (USD $)

3 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

3 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

In Millions, unless otherwise specified

Jul. 25, 2014

Jul. 26, 2013

Apr. 25, 2014

Apr. 26, 2013

Apr. 27, 2012

Apr. 26, 2013

Jul. 25, 2014

Apr. 25, 2014

Apr. 26, 2013

Apr. 26, 2013

Nov. 01, 2012

Aug. 07, 2013

Jul. 25, 2014

Apr. 25, 2014

Apr. 26, 2013

Apr. 27, 2012

Apr. 25, 2014

Jul. 25, 2014

Apr. 25, 2014

Jul. 25, 2014

Apr. 25, 2014

Jul. 25, 2014

Apr. 25, 2014

Apr. 25, 2014

Impairment of Acquired in Process Research and Development

In Process Research and Development

In Process Research and Development

In Process Research and Development

China Kanghui Holdings

China Kanghui Holdings

Cardiocom

Nonrecurring

Nonrecurring

Nonrecurring

Nonrecurring

Nonrecurring

Nonrecurring

Nonrecurring

Nonrecurring

Nonrecurring

Nonrecurring

Nonrecurring

Nonrecurring

Impairment of Acquired in Process Research and Development

In Process Research and Development

In Process Research and Development

China Kanghui Holdings

China Kanghui Holdings

Cardiocom

Cardiocom

Ardian

Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Aggregate carrying amount of investments in equity and other securities that are accounted for using the cost or equity method

$618

'

$666

$549

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

$618

$666

$549

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Carrying amount of goodwill

10,696

'

10,593

10,329

9,934

'

'

'

'

'

409

123

10,696

10,593

10,329

'

'

'

'

410

409

123

123

'

Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets (Excluding Goodwill)

'

'

'

'

'

'

116

119

363

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

116

119

'

'

'

'

'

Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net

2,225

'

2,167

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

2,225

2,167

2,310

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Impairment of Property, Plant and Equipment

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

9

16

6

9

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

3

Long-term debt, fair value

11,873

'

11,856

10,820

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Long-term debt, principal value

11,375

'

11,375

9,928

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Cost-method investment impairment charges

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

10

21

10

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Carrying amount of IPR&D

'

'

119

363

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Acquisition-related items

41

-96

117

-49

12

5

'

'

'

13

'

'

'

'

'

'

207

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Intangible assets measured on a nonrecurring basis as a percentage of total intangible assets, maximum

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

5.00%

5.00%

5.00%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Impairment of intangible assets

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

41

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Financial Instruments Not Measured at Fair Value

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Long-term debt, fair value

11,873

'

11,856

10,820

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Long-term debt, principal value

$11,375

'

$11,375

$9,928

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Financing_Arrangements_Detail

Financing Arrangements (Detail) (USD $)

3 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

0 Months Ended

0 Months Ended

3 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

3 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

3 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

3 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

1 Months Ended

3 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

3 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

3 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

3 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

3 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

3 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

3 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

3 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

3 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

3 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

3 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

3 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

3 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

3 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

3 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

3 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

Share data in Millions, unless otherwise specified

Jul. 25, 2014

Apr. 25, 2014

Apr. 26, 2013

Jul. 25, 2014

Apr. 25, 2014

Apr. 26, 2013

Apr. 25, 2014

Apr. 26, 2013

Apr. 25, 2014

Jul. 25, 2014

Jul. 25, 2014

Jul. 25, 2014

Jul. 25, 2014

Jul. 25, 2014

Jul. 25, 2014

Apr. 26, 2013

Jul. 25, 2014

Jul. 25, 2014

Jul. 25, 2014

Jul. 25, 2014

Jul. 25, 2014

Apr. 25, 2014

Apr. 26, 2013

Apr. 25, 2014

Apr. 26, 2013

Apr. 25, 2014

Jul. 25, 2014

Apr. 25, 2014

Feb. 28, 2014

Jul. 25, 2014

Apr. 25, 2014

Feb. 28, 2014

Apr. 25, 2014

Apr. 26, 2013

Jul. 25, 2014

Apr. 25, 2014

Feb. 28, 2014

Apr. 25, 2014

Apr. 26, 2013

Feb. 28, 2014

Jul. 25, 2014

Apr. 25, 2014

Feb. 28, 2014

Apr. 25, 2014

Apr. 26, 2013

Jul. 25, 2014

Apr. 25, 2014

Feb. 28, 2014

Apr. 25, 2014

Apr. 26, 2013

Mar. 31, 2013

Jul. 25, 2014

Apr. 25, 2014

Apr. 26, 2013

Mar. 31, 2013

Apr. 25, 2014

Apr. 26, 2013

Jul. 25, 2014

Apr. 25, 2014

Mar. 31, 2013

Apr. 25, 2014

Apr. 26, 2013

Jul. 25, 2014

Apr. 25, 2014

Mar. 31, 2013

Apr. 25, 2014

Apr. 26, 2013

Apr. 25, 2014

Apr. 25, 2014

Apr. 26, 2013

Jul. 25, 2014

Apr. 25, 2014

Apr. 25, 2014

Apr. 26, 2013

Jul. 25, 2014

Apr. 25, 2014

Apr. 25, 2014

Apr. 26, 2013

Jul. 25, 2014

Apr. 25, 2014

Apr. 25, 2014

Apr. 26, 2013

Jul. 25, 2014

Apr. 25, 2014

Apr. 25, 2014

Apr. 26, 2013

Jul. 25, 2014

Apr. 25, 2014

Apr. 25, 2014

Apr. 26, 2013

Apr. 25, 2014

Apr. 26, 2013

Apr. 25, 2014

Apr. 26, 2013

Apr. 25, 2014

Apr. 26, 2013

Jul. 25, 2014

Apr. 25, 2014

Apr. 26, 2013

Apr. 25, 2014

Apr. 26, 2013

Jul. 25, 2014

Apr. 25, 2014

Apr. 26, 2013

Apr. 25, 2014

Apr. 26, 2013

Jul. 25, 2014

Apr. 25, 2014

Apr. 26, 2013

Apr. 25, 2014

Apr. 26, 2013

Jul. 25, 2014

Apr. 25, 2014

Apr. 26, 2013

Apr. 25, 2014

Apr. 26, 2013

Apr. 25, 2014

Apr. 25, 2014

Apr. 26, 2013

Jul. 25, 2014

Apr. 25, 2014

Apr. 25, 2014

Apr. 26, 2013

Apr. 25, 2014

Apr. 26, 2013

Apr. 25, 2014

Apr. 25, 2014

Apr. 26, 2013

Apr. 25, 2014

Apr. 26, 2013

Jul. 25, 2014

Apr. 25, 2014

Apr. 25, 2014

Apr. 26, 2013

Apr. 25, 2014

Apr. 26, 2013

Covidien PLC

Short-term Debt

Short-term Debt

Long-term Debt

Long-term Debt

Debt Instrument, Unamortized Debt Discount

Line Of Credit Facility 2017

Senior Notes 2010 Due 2015

Senior Notes 2005 Due 2016

Senior Notes 2011 Due 2016

Senior Notes 2011 Due 2021

Senior Notes 2012 Due 2022

Senior Convertible Notes

Senior Unsecured Bridge Credit Agreement

Senior Unsecured Bridge Credit Agreement

Senior Unsecured Cash Bridge Credit Agreement

Senior Unsecured Cash Bridge Credit Agreement

Commercial Paper

Commercial Paper

Commercial Paper

Commercial Paper

Commercial Paper

Credit Facility

Credit Facility

Credit Facility

Senior Notes

Senior Notes

Senior Notes

Senior Notes

Senior Notes

Senior Notes

Senior Notes

Senior Notes

Senior Notes

Senior Notes

Senior Notes

Senior Notes

Senior Notes

Senior Notes

Senior Notes

Senior Notes

Senior Notes

Senior Notes

Senior Notes

Senior Notes

Senior Notes

Senior Notes

Senior Notes

Senior Notes

Senior Notes

Senior Notes

Senior Notes

Senior Notes

Senior Notes

Senior Notes

Senior Notes

Senior Notes

Senior Notes

Senior Notes

Senior Notes

Senior Notes

Senior Notes

Senior Notes

Senior Notes

Senior Notes

Senior Notes

Senior Notes

Senior Notes

Senior Notes

Senior Notes

Senior Notes

Senior Notes

Senior Notes

Senior Notes

Senior Notes

Senior Notes

Senior Notes

Senior Notes

Senior Notes

Senior Notes

Senior Notes

Senior Notes

Senior Notes

Senior Notes

Senior Notes

Senior Notes

Senior Notes

Senior Notes

Senior Notes

Senior Notes

Senior Notes

Senior Notes

Senior Notes

Senior Notes

Senior Notes

Senior Notes

Senior Notes

Senior Notes

Senior Notes

Senior Notes

Senior Notes

Senior Notes

Senior Notes

Senior Notes

Senior Notes

Senior Notes

Senior Notes

Senior Notes

Senior Notes

Senior Notes

Senior Notes

Senior Notes

Senior Notes

Senior Convertible Notes

Senior Convertible Notes

Senior Convertible Notes

Capital Lease Obligations

Capital Lease Obligations

Capital Lease Obligations

Capital Lease Obligations

Capital Lease Obligations

Capital Lease Obligations

Bank Borrowings

Bank Borrowings

Bank Borrowings

Bank Borrowings

Bank Borrowings

Interest Rate Swap

Interest Rate Swap

Interest Rate Swap

Interest Rate Swap

Interest Rate Swap

Interest Rate Swap

Bridge Loan

Bridge Loan

Bridge Loan

Bridge Loan

Short-term Debt

Short-term Debt

Line Of Credit Facility 2017

Line Of Credit Facility 2017

Senior Notes 2014

Senior Notes 2014 Due 2017 Floating

Senior Notes 2014 Due 2017 Floating

Senior Notes 2014 Due 2017 Floating

Senior Notes 2014 Due 2017 Floating

Senior Notes 2014 Due 2017 Floating

Senior Notes 2014 Due 2017

Senior Notes 2014 Due 2017

Senior Notes 2014 Due 2017

Senior Notes 2014 Due 2017

Senior Notes 2014 Due 2017

Senior Notes 2014 Due 2017

Senior Notes 2014 Due 2024

Senior Notes 2014 Due 2024

Senior Notes 2014 Due 2024

Senior Notes 2014 Due 2024

Senior Notes 2014 Due 2024

Senior Notes 2014 Due 2044

Senior Notes 2014 Due 2044

Senior Notes 2014 Due 2044

Senior Notes 2014 Due 2044

Senior Notes 2014 Due 2044

2013 Senior Notes

Senior Notes 2013 Due 2018

Senior Notes 2013 Due 2018

Senior Notes 2013 Due 2018

Senior Notes 2013 Due 2018

Senior Notes 2013 Due 2018

Senior Notes 2013 Due 2018

Senior Notes 2013 Due 2023

Senior Notes 2013 Due 2023

Senior Notes 2013 Due 2023

Senior Notes 2013 Due 2023

Senior Notes 2013 Due 2023

Senior Notes 2013 Due 2043

Senior Notes 2013 Due 2043

Senior Notes 2013 Due 2043

Senior Notes 2013 Due 2043

Senior Notes 2013 Due 2043

Senior Notes 2009 Due 2014

Senior Notes 2009 Due 2014

Senior Notes 2009 Due 2014

Senior Notes 2009 Due 2019

Senior Notes 2009 Due 2019

Senior Notes 2009 Due 2019

Senior Notes 2009 Due 2019

Senior Notes 2009 Due 2039

Senior Notes 2009 Due 2039

Senior Notes 2009 Due 2039

Senior Notes 2009 Due 2039

Senior Notes 2010 Due 2020

Senior Notes 2010 Due 2020

Senior Notes 2010 Due 2020

Senior Notes 2010 Due 2020

Senior Notes 2010 Due 2040

Senior Notes 2010 Due 2040

Senior Notes 2010 Due 2040

Senior Notes 2010 Due 2040

Senior Notes 2012 Due 2042

Senior Notes 2012 Due 2042

Senior Notes 2012 Due 2042

Senior Notes 2012 Due 2042

Senior Notes 2010 Due 2015

Senior Notes 2010 Due 2015

Senior Notes 2010 Due 2015

Senior Notes 2010 Due 2015

Senior Notes 2010 Due 2015

Senior Notes 2010 Due 2015

Senior Notes 2005 Due 2016

Senior Notes 2005 Due 2016

Senior Notes 2005 Due 2016

Senior Notes 2005 Due 2016

Senior Notes 2005 Due 2016

Senior Notes 2011 Due 2016

Senior Notes 2011 Due 2016

Senior Notes 2011 Due 2016

Senior Notes 2011 Due 2016

Senior Notes 2011 Due 2016

Senior Notes 2011 Due 2021

Senior Notes 2011 Due 2021

Senior Notes 2011 Due 2021

Senior Notes 2011 Due 2021

Senior Notes 2011 Due 2021

Senior Notes 2012 Due 2022

Senior Notes 2012 Due 2022

Senior Notes 2012 Due 2022

Senior Notes 2012 Due 2022

Senior Notes 2012 Due 2022

Senior Convertible Notes Due 2011

Senior Convertible Notes Due 2013

Senior Convertible Notes Due 2013

Short-term Debt

Short-term Debt

Long-term Debt

Long-term Debt

Short-term Debt

Short-term Debt

Long-term Debt

Long-term Debt

Short-term Debt

Short-term Debt

Long-term Debt

Long-term Debt

Parent Company

Parent Company

IrSub

IrSub

Long-term Debt

Long-term Debt

Long-term Debt

Long-term Debt

Three-Month LIBOR

Long-term Debt

Long-term Debt

Long-term Debt

Long-term Debt

Long-term Debt

Long-term Debt

Long-term Debt

Long-term Debt

Long-term Debt

Long-term Debt

Short-term Debt

Short-term Debt

Long-term Debt

Long-term Debt

Long-term Debt

Long-term Debt

Long-term Debt

Long-term Debt

Long-term Debt

Long-term Debt

Long-term Debt

Long-term Debt

Short-term Debt

Short-term Debt

Long-term Debt

Long-term Debt

Long-term Debt

Long-term Debt

Long-term Debt

Long-term Debt

Long-term Debt

Long-term Debt

Long-term Debt

Long-term Debt

Line of Credit Facility

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Short-term borrowings

$2,477,000,000

$1,613,000,000

$910,000,000

'

$1,613,000,000

$910,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

$830,000,000

'

$125,000,000

$0

$125,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

$0

$550,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

$14,000,000

$14,000,000

'

'

'

$337,000,000

$221,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Maximum credit available

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

2,250,000,000

2,250,000,000

'

'

'

'

2,250,000,000

2,250,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Maximum maturities

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'364 days

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Short-term debt, Weighted Average Original Maturity

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'28 days

'53 days

'89 days

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Debt, Weighted Average Interest Rate During Period

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

0.10%

0.09%

0.18%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Additional borrowing capacity

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

750,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

750,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Length of extension from maturity date

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'1 year

'1 year

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Future funding available under debt bridge credit agreement

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

2,800,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

General Disclosures

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Debt Instrument, Term

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'364 days

'

'60 days

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'5 years

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Additional Cash required to finance the cash component of transaction

'

'

'

13,200,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Future funding available under cash bridge credit agreement

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

13,500,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Long-term debt

10,323,000,000

10,315,000,000

9,741,000,000

'

'

'

10,315,000,000

9,741,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

250,000,000

250,000,000

'

250,000,000

0

250,000,000

250,000,000

'

250,000,000

0

'

850,000,000

850,000,000

'

850,000,000

0

650,000,000

650,000,000

'

650,000,000

0

'

1,000,000,000

1,000,000,000

'

'

1,000,000,000

1,000,000,000

1,250,000,000

1,250,000,000

'

1,250,000,000

1,250,000,000

750,000,000

750,000,000

'

750,000,000

750,000,000

'

'

'

400,000,000

400,000,000

400,000,000

400,000,000

300,000,000

300,000,000

300,000,000

300,000,000

1,250,000,000

1,250,000,000

1,250,000,000

1,250,000,000

500,000,000

500,000,000

500,000,000

500,000,000

400,000,000

400,000,000

400,000,000

400,000,000

'

'

1,250,000,000

0

0

1,250,000,000

600,000,000

600,000,000

'

600,000,000

600,000,000

500,000,000

500,000,000

'

500,000,000

500,000,000

500,000,000

500,000,000

'

500,000,000

500,000,000

675,000,000

675,000,000

'

675,000,000

675,000,000

'

'

'

136,000,000

139,000,000

'

'

139,000,000

152,000,000

'

'

'

0

3,000,000

71,000,000

56,000,000

12,000,000

0

56,000,000

181,000,000

Stated interest rate

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

3.00%

4.75%

2.63%

4.13%

3.13%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

0.88%

0.88%

0.88%

'

'

'

3.63%

3.63%

3.63%

'

'

4.63%

4.63%

4.63%

'

'

'

1.38%

1.38%

'

1.38%

'

'

2.75%

2.75%

2.75%

'

'

4.00%

4.00%

4.00%

'

'

4.50%

'

'

5.60%

5.60%

'

'

6.50%

6.50%

'

'

4.45%

4.45%

'

'

5.55%

5.55%

'

'

4.50%

4.50%

'

'

3.00%

3.00%

'

'

'

'

4.75%

4.75%

4.75%

'

'

2.63%

2.63%

2.63%

'

'

4.13%

4.13%

4.13%

'

'

3.13%

3.13%

3.13%

'

'

1.50%

1.63%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Debt Instrument, Maturity Date, Year

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'2014

'

'

'

'

'

'2017

'2017

'

'

'

'2017

'2017

'

'

'

'

'2024

'2024

'

'

'

'2044

'2044

'

'

'

'

'2018

'2018

'

'

'

'

'2023

'2023

'

'

'

'2043

'2043

'

'

'

'2014

'

'

'2019

'2019

'

'

'2039

'2039

'

'

'2020

'2020

'

'

'2040

'2040

'

'

'2042

'2042

'

'

'2015

'

'

'

'

'

'2016

'2016

'

'

'

'2016

'2016

'

'

'

'2021

'2021

'

'

'

'2022

'2022

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'2015

'

'

'

'

'

'

'2015

'

'

'

Debt Instrument, Maturity Date, Year, Earliest

'2017

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'2017

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'2016

'

'2014

'

'2015

'

'2014

'

'

'

'

'2016

'2015

'

'

'

'

Debt Instrument, Maturity Date, Year, Last

'2044

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'2044

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'2025

'

'2015

'

'2025

'

'2015

'

'

'

'

'2022

'2022

'

'

'

'

Deferred gains from interest rate swap terminations

15,000,000

20,000,000

'

'

'

'

20,000,000

50,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Debt Instrument, Unamortized Discount

-24,000,000

-25,000,000

'

'

'

'

-25,000,000

-20,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Principal amount

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

1,250,000,000

600,000,000

500,000,000

500,000,000

675,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

2,000,000,000

'

'

250,000,000

'

'

'

'

250,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

850,000,000

'

'

'

'

650,000,000

'

'

3,000,000,000

'

'

'

1,000,000,000

'

'

'

'

1,250,000,000

'

'

'

'

750,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

1,250,000,000

1,250,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

600,000,000

600,000,000

'

'

'

500,000,000

500,000,000

'

'

'

500,000,000

500,000,000

'

'

'

675,000,000

675,000,000

'

'

2,200,000,000

'

2,200,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Short-term borrowings

2,477,000,000

1,613,000,000

910,000,000

'

1,613,000,000

910,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

830,000,000

'

125,000,000

0

125,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

0

550,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

14,000,000

14,000,000

'

'

'

337,000,000

221,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Effective interest rate

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

0.00%

0.21%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

0.32%

0.00%

'

'

'

0.91%

0.00%

'

'

'

'

3.65%

0.00%

'

'

'

4.67%

0.00%

'

'

1.41%

1.41%

'

'

'

'

'

'

2.78%

2.78%

'

'

'

4.12%

4.12%

'

0.00%

4.50%

'

'

5.61%

5.61%

'

'

6.52%

6.52%

'

'

4.47%

4.47%

'

'

5.56%

5.56%

'

'

4.51%

4.51%

'

'

3.00%

0.00%

0.00%

3.00%

'

'

'

4.76%

4.76%

'

'

'

2.72%

2.72%

'

'

'

4.19%

4.19%

'

'

'

3.16%

3.16%

'

'

'

'

'

3.33%

3.30%

3.62%

3.59%

'

0.35%

0.57%

'

5.00%

'

'

'

'

'

'

Basis spread on debt variable rate

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

0.09%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Warrants exercise price (per share)

'

76.56

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Common stock settled for warrants (in shares)

'

82

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Warrants expired (in shares)

'

82

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Carrying amount of the equity component

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

547,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Debt Instrument, Convertible, Interest Expense, Contractual Interest Coupon

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

35,000,000

36,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Interest cost related to amortization of the discount

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

$90,000,000

$87,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Derivatives_and_Foreign_Exchan2

Derivatives and Foreign Exchange Risk Management , Credit Risk and Other Disclosures (Detail) (USD $)

3 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

3 Months Ended

In Millions, unless otherwise specified

Jul. 25, 2014

Jul. 26, 2013

Apr. 25, 2014

Apr. 26, 2013

Apr. 27, 2012

Jul. 25, 2014

Apr. 25, 2014

Apr. 26, 2013

Apr. 25, 2014

Apr. 26, 2013

Jul. 27, 2012

Jul. 25, 2014

Apr. 25, 2014

Apr. 26, 2013

Jul. 25, 2014

Apr. 25, 2014

Apr. 26, 2013

Italy, Spain, Portugal and Greece

Italy, Spain, Portugal and Greece

Italy, Spain, Portugal and Greece

Spain

Spain

Spain

GREECE

GREECE

GREECE

Foreign Currency Exchange Rate Contracts

Foreign Currency Exchange Rate Contracts

Foreign Currency Exchange Rate Contracts

General Discussion of Derivatives

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Derivative, Notional Amount

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

$7,306

$8,051

$6,812

Currency exchange rate gains/(losses)

-12

3

-1

25

-183

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Accounts receivable net of allowance

'

'

'

'

'

619

628

770

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Proceeds from customers

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

106

106

212

'

'

'

'

'

'

Deferred Revenue

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

17

15

21

'

'

'

Derivative Assets and Liabilities, Net, Collateral, Obligation to Return Cash

$0

'

$0

$30

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Derivatives_and_Foreign_Exchan3

Derivatives and Foreign Exchange Risk Management , Freestanding Derivative Forward Contracts and Cash Flow Hedges (Detail) (USD $)

3 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

1 Months Ended

3 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

3 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

3 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

3 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

3 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

3 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

In Millions, unless otherwise specified

Jul. 25, 2014

Apr. 25, 2014

Apr. 26, 2013

Jul. 25, 2014

Apr. 25, 2014

Apr. 26, 2013

Feb. 28, 2014

Jul. 25, 2014

Apr. 25, 2014

Apr. 26, 2013

Mar. 31, 2013

Jul. 25, 2014

Jul. 26, 2013

Apr. 25, 2014

Apr. 26, 2013

Apr. 27, 2012

Jul. 25, 2014

Jul. 26, 2013

Apr. 25, 2014

Apr. 26, 2013

Apr. 27, 2012

Jul. 25, 2014

Jul. 26, 2013

Apr. 25, 2014

Apr. 26, 2013

Apr. 27, 2012

Jul. 25, 2014

Jul. 26, 2013

Apr. 25, 2014

Apr. 26, 2013

Apr. 27, 2012

Jul. 25, 2014

Jul. 26, 2013

Apr. 25, 2014

Apr. 26, 2013

Jul. 25, 2014

Jul. 26, 2013

Apr. 25, 2014

Apr. 26, 2013

Apr. 27, 2012

Apr. 25, 2014

Jul. 25, 2014

Apr. 26, 2013

Jul. 25, 2014

Apr. 25, 2014

Feb. 28, 2014

Mar. 31, 2013

Jul. 25, 2014

Apr. 25, 2014

Apr. 26, 2013

Foreign Currency Exchange Rate Contracts

Foreign Currency Exchange Rate Contracts

Foreign Currency Exchange Rate Contracts

Interest Rate Swap

Interest Rate Swap

Interest Rate Swap

Interest Rate Swap

Interest Rate Swap

Other Expense, Net

Other Expense, Net

Other Expense, Net

Other Expense, Net

Other Expense, Net

Cash Flow Hedging

Cash Flow Hedging

Cash Flow Hedging

Cash Flow Hedging

Cash Flow Hedging

Cash Flow Hedging

Cash Flow Hedging

Cash Flow Hedging

Cash Flow Hedging

Cash Flow Hedging

Cash Flow Hedging

Cash Flow Hedging

Cash Flow Hedging

Cash Flow Hedging

Cash Flow Hedging

Cash Flow Hedging

Cash Flow Hedging

Cash Flow Hedging

Cash Flow Hedging

Cash Flow Hedging

Cash Flow Hedging

Cash Flow Hedging

Cash Flow Hedging

Cash Flow Hedging

Designated as Hedging Instrument

Designated as Hedging Instrument

Designated as Hedging Instrument

Designated as Hedging Instrument

Designated as Hedging Instrument

Designated as Hedging Instrument

Designated as Hedging Instrument

Not Designated as Hedging Instrument

Not Designated as Hedging Instrument

Not Designated as Hedging Instrument

Foreign Currency Exchange Rate Contracts

Foreign Currency Exchange Rate Contracts

Foreign Currency Exchange Rate Contracts

Foreign Currency Exchange Rate Contracts

Foreign Currency Exchange Rate Contracts

Foreign Currency Exchange Rate Contracts

Foreign Currency Exchange Rate Contracts

Foreign Currency Exchange Rate Contracts

Foreign Currency Exchange Rate Contracts

Foreign Currency Exchange Rate Contracts

Other Expense, Net

Other Expense, Net

Other Expense, Net

Other Expense, Net

Other Expense, Net

Interest Expense

Interest Expense

Interest Expense

Interest Expense

Cost of Products Sold

Cost of Products Sold

Cost of Products Sold

Cost of Products Sold

Cost of Products Sold

Cash Flow Hedging

Cash Flow Hedging

Cash Flow Hedging

Cash Flow Hedging

Cash Flow Hedging

Cash Flow Hedging

Cash Flow Hedging

Foreign Currency Exchange Rate Contracts

Foreign Currency Exchange Rate Contracts

Foreign Currency Exchange Rate Contracts

Foreign Currency Exchange Rate Contracts

Foreign Currency Exchange Rate Contracts

Foreign Currency Exchange Rate Contracts

Foreign Currency Exchange Rate Contracts

Foreign Currency Exchange Rate Contracts

Interest Rate Swap

Interest Rate Swap

Interest Rate Swap

Interest Rate Swap

Foreign Currency Exchange Rate Contracts

Foreign Currency Exchange Rate Contracts

Foreign Currency Exchange Rate Contracts

Foreign Currency Exchange Rate Contracts

Foreign Currency Exchange Rate Contracts

Foreign Currency Exchange Rate Contracts

Foreign Currency Exchange Rate Contracts

Foreign Currency Exchange Rate Contracts

Interest Rate Swap

Interest Rate Swap

Interest Rate Swap

Interest Rate Swap

Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Derivative, Notional Amount

'

'

'

$7,306

$8,051

$6,812

'

$2,625

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

$5,849

$5,321

$4,753

$250

$250

$250

$750

$1,985

$2,202

$2,059

Freestanding Derivative Forward Contracts

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Gain (loss) on foreign currency derivatives not designated as hedging instruments

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

-24

29

15

26

53

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Cash Flow Hedges

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Maximum remaining maturity of foreign currency derivatives

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'3 years

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Gains (losses) recognized in OCI on effective portion of derivative

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

62

-27

-152

121

332

62

-27

-152

121

332

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Effective portion of gains (losses) on derivative reclassified from AOCI into income

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

-1

17

51

101

-127

'

'

'

'

'

2

32

94

103

-141

2

2

8

1

-3

-15

-43

-2

14

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Weighted average fixed rate of interest rate derivatives

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

2.83%

2.83%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Unrealized gain (loss) associated with cash flow hedging instruments

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

7

-18

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Interest Rate Cash Flow Hedges, Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax

-7

-44

58

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Cash flow hedge unrealized gains to be reclassified over the next 12 months

6

7

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Term of contract

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'3 years

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Derivative, Collateral, Obligation to Return Cash

0

0

30

0

0

24

'

'

'

'

68

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Cash receipts upon termination of hedge

'

'

'

'

'

'

$8

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Derivatives_and_Foreign_Exchan4

Derivatives and Foreign Exchange Risk Management , Fair Value Hedges (Detail) (USD $)

12 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

1 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

1 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

1 Months Ended

3 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

3 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

In Millions, unless otherwise specified

Apr. 27, 2012

Jul. 25, 2014

Apr. 25, 2014

Apr. 26, 2013

Jul. 25, 2014

Apr. 25, 2014

Apr. 26, 2013

Jul. 25, 2014

Jul. 25, 2014

Apr. 25, 2014

Apr. 26, 2013

Jul. 25, 2014

Jul. 25, 2014

Apr. 25, 2014

Apr. 26, 2013

Jul. 25, 2014

Jul. 25, 2014

Apr. 25, 2014

Apr. 26, 2013

Jul. 25, 2014

Jul. 25, 2014

Apr. 25, 2014

Apr. 26, 2013

Apr. 25, 2014

Apr. 25, 2014

Apr. 25, 2014

Apr. 25, 2014

Apr. 25, 2014

Apr. 25, 2014

Jul. 31, 2011

Apr. 25, 2014

Aug. 31, 2011

Apr. 25, 2014

Apr. 25, 2014

Feb. 28, 2014

Jul. 25, 2014

Mar. 31, 2013

Apr. 25, 2014

Jul. 25, 2014

Apr. 25, 2014

Feb. 28, 2014

Mar. 31, 2013

Jul. 25, 2014

Apr. 25, 2014

Apr. 26, 2013

Apr. 25, 2014

Apr. 26, 2013

Senior Notes 2010 Due 2015

Senior Notes 2010 Due 2015

Senior Notes 2010 Due 2015

Senior Notes 2005 Due 2016

Senior Notes 2005 Due 2016

Senior Notes 2005 Due 2016

Senior Notes 2005 Due 2016

Senior Notes 2011 Due 2016

Senior Notes 2011 Due 2016

Senior Notes 2011 Due 2016

Senior Notes 2011 Due 2016

Senior Notes 2011 Due 2021

Senior Notes 2011 Due 2021

Senior Notes 2011 Due 2021

Senior Notes 2011 Due 2021

Senior Notes 2012 Due 2022

Senior Notes 2012 Due 2022

Senior Notes 2012 Due 2022

Senior Notes 2012 Due 2022

March 2012 Agreement

Senior Notes 2010 Due 2015

Senior Notes 2005 Due 2016

Senior Notes 2011 Due 2016

Senior Notes 2011 Due 2021

Senior Notes 2012 Due 2022

March 2010 Agreement 3 and 2009 Agreements

March 2010 Agreement 3 and 2009 Agreements

March 2010 Agreement 1

March 2010 Agreement 1

Senior Notes 2009 Due 2014

Interest Rate Swap

Interest Rate Swap

Interest Rate Swap

Interest Rate Swap

Cash Flow Hedging

Cash Flow Hedging

Cash Flow Hedging

Cash Flow Hedging

Fair Value Hedging

Fair Value Hedging

Fair Value Hedging

Fair Value Hedging

Fair Value Hedging

Senior Notes

Senior Notes

Senior Notes

Senior Notes

Senior Notes

Senior Notes

Senior Notes

Senior Notes

Senior Notes

Senior Notes

Senior Notes

Senior Notes

Senior Notes

Senior Notes

March 2012 Agreement

Designated as Hedging Instrument

Designated as Hedging Instrument

Designated as Hedging Instrument

Designated as Hedging Instrument

Interest Rate Swap

Interest Rate Swap

Interest Rate Swap

Designated as Hedging Instrument

Designated as Hedging Instrument

Interest Rate Swap

Interest Rate Swap

Interest Rate Swap

Interest Rate Swap

Interest Rate Swap

Interest Rate Swap

Fair Value Hedges

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Derivative, Notional Amount

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

$2,625

'

'

$250

$250

$250

$750

'

'

'

$2,625

$2,625

Interest rate derivatives hedged items

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'$1.250 billion 3.000 percent 2010 Senior Notes due 2015

'$600 million 4.750 percent 2005 Senior Notes due 2016

'$500 million 2.625 percent 2011 Senior Notes due 2016

'$500 million 4.125 percent 2011 Senior Notes due 2021

'$675 million 3.125 percent 2012 Senior Notes due 2022

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'The Company's $1.250 billion 3.000 percent 2010 Senior Notes classified as short-term borrowings, the $600 million 4.750 percent 2005 Senior Notes, the $500 million 2.625 percent 2011 Senior Notes, the $500 million 4.125 percent 2011 Senior Notes, and the $675 million 3.125 percent 2012 Senior Notes.

'

'

'

'

Principal amount

'

'

'

'

1,250

1,250

1,250

600

'

600

600

500

'

500

500

500

'

500

500

675

'

675

675

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage

'

'

'

'

3.00%

3.00%

3.00%

4.75%

4.75%

4.75%

4.75%

2.63%

2.63%

2.63%

2.63%

4.13%

4.13%

4.13%

4.13%

3.13%

3.13%

3.13%

3.13%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Unrealized gain on interest rate fair value hedging instruments

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

80

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

68

181

'

'

Unrealized loss on interest rate fair value hedged items

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

80

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

-68

-181

'

'

Derivative, Collateral, Obligation to Return Cash

'

0

0

30

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

68

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Term of contract

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'10 years

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Inception date

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

1-Mar-12

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Debt variable rate basis

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'One-month LIBOR

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Basis spread on debt variable rate

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

0.92%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Termination date

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

1-Jul-11

'

1-Aug-11

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Notional amount of interest rate fair value hedge derivatives discontinued

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

900

'

650

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Terminated interest rate derivatives hedged items

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'$2.200 billion 1.625 percent 2013 Senior Convertible Notes

'$550 million 4.500 percent 2009 Senior Notes due 2014

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Cash receipts upon termination of hedge

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

46

'

42

'

'

8

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Derivative interest accrued on hedge

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

10

'

7

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Interest rate fair value hedge ineffectiveness

$1

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Derivatives_and_Foreign_Exchan5

Derivatives and Foreign Exchange Risk Management , Balance Sheet Presentation (Detail) (USD $)	Jul. 25, 2014	Apr. 25, 2014	Apr. 26, 2013
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]	'	'	'
Asset derivatives	$176	$175	$394
Liability derivatives	68	127	58
Interest Rate Contracts	'	'	'
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]	'	'	'
Asset derivatives	80	86	181
Liability derivatives	'	11	18
Foreign Currency Exchange Rate Contracts	'	'	'
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]	'	'	'
Asset derivatives	96	89	213
Liability derivatives	68	116	40
Designated as Hedging Instrument	'	'	'
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]	'	'	'
Asset derivatives	175	175	394
Liability derivatives	67	125	57
Designated as Hedging Instrument | Interest Rate Contracts | Other Accrued Expenses	'	'	'
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]	'	'	'
Liability derivatives	0	0	'
Designated as Hedging Instrument | Interest Rate Contracts | Other Long-term Liabilities	'	'	'
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]	'	'	'
Liability derivatives	'	11	18
Designated as Hedging Instrument | Interest Rate Contracts | Prepaid Expenses and Other Current Assets	'	'	'
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]	'	'	'
Asset derivatives	9	13	'
Designated as Hedging Instrument | Interest Rate Contracts | Other Assets	'	'	'
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]	'	'	'
Asset derivatives	71	73	181
Designated as Hedging Instrument | Foreign Currency Exchange Rate Contracts | Other Accrued Expenses	'	'	'
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]	'	'	'
Liability derivatives	52	84	34
Designated as Hedging Instrument | Foreign Currency Exchange Rate Contracts | Other Long-term Liabilities	'	'	'
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]	'	'	'
Liability derivatives	15	30	5
Designated as Hedging Instrument | Foreign Currency Exchange Rate Contracts | Prepaid Expenses and Other Current Assets	'	'	'
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]	'	'	'
Asset derivatives	72	81	150
Designated as Hedging Instrument | Foreign Currency Exchange Rate Contracts | Other Assets	'	'	'
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]	'	'	'
Asset derivatives	23	8	63
Not Designated as Hedging Instrument	'	'	'
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]	'	'	'
Asset derivatives	1	0	0
Liability derivatives	1	2	1
Not Designated as Hedging Instrument | Foreign Currency Exchange Rate Contracts | Other Accrued Expenses	'	'	'
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]	'	'	'
Liability derivatives	1	2	1
Not Designated as Hedging Instrument | Foreign Currency Exchange Rate Contracts | Prepaid Expenses and Other Current Assets	'	'	'
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]	'	'	'
Asset derivatives	$1	$0	$0

Derivatives_and_Foreign_Exchan6

Derivatives and Foreign Exchange Risk Management , Offsetting of Assets and Liabilities (Detail) (USD $)	Jul. 25, 2014	Apr. 25, 2014	Apr. 26, 2013
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Offsetting Assets [Line Items]	'	'	'
Derivative assets, gross amount	$176	$175	$394
Gross amount not offset on the Balance Sheet, financial instruments	-61	-95	-58
Gross amount not offset on the Balance Sheet, cash collateral (received) or pledged	0	0	-30
Derivative assets, net amount	115	80	306
Derivative liabilities, gross amount	-68	-127	-58
Gross amount not offset on the Balance Sheet, financial instrument	61	95	58
Gross amount not offset on the Balance Sheet, cash collateral (received) or pledged	'	0	0
Derivative liabilities, net amount	-7	-32	0
Total derivatives, gross amount of recognized assets/(liabilities)	108	48	336
Total derivatives, gross amount not offset on the Balance Sheet, financial instruments	0	0	0
Total derivatives, gross amount not offset on the Balance Sheet, cash collateral (received) or pledged	0	0	-30
Total derivatives, net amount	108	48	306
Foreign Currency Exchange Rate Contracts	'	'	'
Offsetting Assets [Line Items]	'	'	'
Derivative assets, gross amount	96	89	213
Gross amount not offset on the Balance Sheet, financial instruments	-50	-64	-42
Gross amount not offset on the Balance Sheet, cash collateral (received) or pledged	0	0	-24
Derivative assets, net amount	46	25	147
Derivative liabilities, gross amount	-68	-116	-40
Gross amount not offset on the Balance Sheet, financial instrument	61	84	40
Gross amount not offset on the Balance Sheet, cash collateral (received) or pledged	'	0	0
Derivative liabilities, net amount	-7	-32	0
Interest Rate Contracts	'	'	'
Offsetting Assets [Line Items]	'	'	'
Derivative assets, gross amount	80	86	181
Gross amount not offset on the Balance Sheet, financial instruments	-11	-31	-16
Gross amount not offset on the Balance Sheet, cash collateral (received) or pledged	0	0	-6
Derivative assets, net amount	69	55	159
Derivative liabilities, gross amount	'	-11	-18
Gross amount not offset on the Balance Sheet, financial instrument	'	11	18
Gross amount not offset on the Balance Sheet, cash collateral (received) or pledged	'	0	0
Derivative liabilities, net amount	'	$0	$0

Inventories_Detail

Inventories (Detail) (USD $)	Jul. 25, 2014	Apr. 25, 2014	Apr. 26, 2013
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Inventory Disclosure [Abstract]	'	'	'
Finished goods	$1,235	$1,196	$1,174
Work in process	283	247	248
Raw materials	318	282	290
Total	$1,836	$1,725	$1,712

Goodwill_and_Other_Intangible_2

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets, Net (Detail) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Jul. 25, 2014	Jul. 26, 2013	Apr. 25, 2014	Apr. 26, 2013	Apr. 27, 2012
The changes in the carrying amount of goodwill	'	'	'	'	'
Balance as of	$10,593	$10,329	$10,329	$9,934	'
Goodwill as a result of acquisitions	99	'	279	414	'
Goodwill, Purchase Accounting Adjustments	-2	'	-1	3	'
Currency adjustments, net	6	'	-14	-22	'
Balance as of	10,696	'	10,593	10,329	9,934
Balance of intangible assets, excluding goodwill	'	'	'	'	'
Finite-Lived And Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets, Original Cost	4,706	'	4,584	4,771	'
Accumulated amortization	-2,365	'	-2,298	-2,098	'
Carrying value	2,225	'	2,167	'	'
Aggregate carrying amount of intangible assets	2,341	'	2,286	2,673	'
Amortization expense	87	86	349	331	335
Estimated aggregate amortization expense	'	'	'	'	'
Remaining 2015	275	'	'	'	'
2015	331	'	338	'	'
2016	309	'	326	'	'
2017	293	'	304	'	'
2018	249	'	289	'	'
2019	204	'	244	'	'
Thereafter	564	'	666	'	'
Carrying value	2,225	'	2,167	'	'
In Process Research and Development	'	'	'	'	'
Balance of intangible assets, excluding goodwill	'	'	'	'	'
Indefinite-lived intangible assets	116	'	119	363	'
Purchased Technology and Patents	'	'	'	'	'
Balance of intangible assets, excluding goodwill	'	'	'	'	'
Original cost	3,992	'	3,857	3,896	'
Accumulated amortization	-1,946	'	-1,878	-1,702	'
Carrying value	2,046	'	1,979	2,194	'
Intangible assets, estimated useful life	'	'	'12 years 8 months 12 days	'12 years 6 months	'
Estimated aggregate amortization expense	'	'	'	'	'
Carrying value	2,046	'	1,979	2,194	'
Trademarks and Tradenames	'	'	'	'	'
Balance of intangible assets, excluding goodwill	'	'	'	'	'
Original cost	408	'	408	408	'
Accumulated amortization	-337	'	-332	-320	'
Carrying value	71	'	76	88	'
Intangible assets, estimated useful life	'	'	'11 years 9 months 18 days	'11 years 9 months 18 days	'
Estimated aggregate amortization expense	'	'	'	'	'
Carrying value	71	'	76	88	'
Other	'	'	'	'	'
Balance of intangible assets, excluding goodwill	'	'	'	'	'
Original cost	190	'	200	104	'
Accumulated amortization	-82	'	-88	-76	'
Carrying value	108	'	112	28	'
Intangible assets, estimated useful life	'	'	'8 years 8 months 12 days	'8 years 9 months 18 days	'
Estimated aggregate amortization expense	'	'	'	'	'
Carrying value	108	'	112	28	'
Cardiac and Vascular Group	'	'	'	'	'
The changes in the carrying amount of goodwill	'	'	'	'	'
Balance as of	2,881	2,624	2,624	2,636	'
Goodwill as a result of acquisitions	50	'	279	0	'
Goodwill, Purchase Accounting Adjustments	-2	'	-8	0	'
Currency adjustments, net	5	'	-14	-12	'
Balance as of	2,934	'	2,881	2,624	'
Restorative Therapies Group	'	'	'	'	'
The changes in the carrying amount of goodwill	'	'	'	'	'
Balance as of	6,368	6,361	6,361	5,954	'
Goodwill as a result of acquisitions	49	'	0	414	'
Goodwill, Purchase Accounting Adjustments	0	'	7	3	'
Currency adjustments, net	1	'	0	-10	'
Balance as of	6,418	'	6,368	6,361	'
Diabetes Group	'	'	'	'	'
The changes in the carrying amount of goodwill	'	'	'	'	'
Balance as of	1,344	1,344	1,344	1,344	'
Goodwill as a result of acquisitions	0	'	0	0	'
Goodwill, Purchase Accounting Adjustments	0	'	0	0	'
Currency adjustments, net	0	'	0	0	'
Balance as of	$1,344	'	$1,344	$1,344	'

Warranty_Obligation_Detail

Warranty Obligation (Detail) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Jul. 25, 2014	Jul. 26, 2013	Apr. 25, 2014	Apr. 26, 2013
Changes in Product Warranty Obligations	'	'	'	'
Balance as of beginning of period	$32	$35	$35	$31
Warranty claims provision	6	11	25	25
Settlements made	-7	-8	-28	-21
Balance as of end of peridod	$31	$38	$32	$35

Interest_Expense_Net_Detail

Interest Expense, Net (Detail) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Jul. 25, 2014	Jul. 26, 2013	Apr. 25, 2014	Apr. 26, 2013	Apr. 27, 2012
Interest Income and Interest Expense	'	'	'	'	'
Interest Income	($92)	($50)	($271)	($237)	($200)
Interest expense	97	90	379	388	349
Interest expense, net	$5	$40	$108	$151	$149

Income_Taxes_Detail

Income Taxes (Detail) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Jul. 25, 2014	Jul. 26, 2013	Apr. 25, 2014	Apr. 26, 2013	Apr. 27, 2012
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]	'	'	'	'	'
Effective tax rate from continuing operations	19.60%	17.30%	17.30%	18.40%	17.60%
Gross unrecognized tax benefits	$1,234	'	$1,172	$1,068	$917
Accrued income tax interest and penalties	157	'	141	88	120
Unrecognized tax benefits that would impact effective tax rate	1,138	'	1,104	1,028	858
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, by Jurisdiction	'	'	'	'	'
U.S.	'	'	1,690	1,806	1,620
International	'	'	2,015	2,445	2,525
Earnings before income taxes	1,083	1,153	3,705	4,251	4,145
Current tax expense:	'	'	'	'	'
U.S.	'	'	532	509	664
International	'	'	248	219	231
Total current tax expense	'	'	780	728	895
Deferred tax expense (benefit):	'	'	'	'	'
U.S.	'	'	-175	46	-138
International	'	'	35	10	-27
Net deferred tax expense (benefit)	'	'	-140	56	-165
Total provision for income taxes	212	200	640	784	730
Valuation allowance	'	'	397	313	'
Deferred tax assets:	'	'	'	'	'
Net operating loss, capital loss, and credit carryforwards	'	'	487	423	'
Other accrued liabilities	'	'	205	140	'
Accrued compensation	'	'	201	98	'
Pension and post-retirement benefits	'	'	194	239	'
Stock-based compensation	'	'	171	223	'
Other	'	'	142	200	'
Inventory	'	'	118	121	'
Federal and state benefit on uncertain tax positions	'	'	79	57	'
Unrealized loss on available-for-sale securities and derivative financial instruments	'	'	29	0	'
Gross deferred tax assets	'	'	1,626	1,501	'
Valuation allowance	'	'	-397	-313	'
Total deferred tax assets	'	'	1,229	1,188	'
Deferred tax liabilities:	'	'	'	'	'
Intangible assets	'	'	-652	-712	'
Basis impairment	'	'	-225	-214	'
Realized loss on derivative financial instruments	'	'	-110	-110	'
Other	'	'	-24	-29	'
Accumulated depreciation	'	'	-20	-56	'
Unrealized gain on available-for-sale securities and derivative financial instruments	'	'	0	-87	'
Total deferred tax liabilities	'	'	-1,031	-1,208	'
Prepaid income taxes	'	'	320	321	'
Income tax receivables	'	'	113	114	'
Tax assets, net	'	'	631	415	'
Reported as (after valuation allowance and jurisdictional netting):	'	'	'	'	'
Tax assets	599	'	736	539	'
Long-term tax assets	199	'	300	232	'
Deferred tax liabilities	-19	'	-19	-16	'
Long-term deferred tax liabilities	-377	'	-386	-340	'
Tax assets, net	'	'	631	415	'
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation	'	'	'	'	'
U.S. federal statutory tax rate	'	'	35.00%	35.00%	35.00%
Increase (decrease) in tax rate resulting from:	'	'	'	'	'
U.S. state taxes, net of federal tax benefit	'	'	0.60%	0.50%	0.90%
Research and development credit	'	'	-0.50%	-1.10%	-0.60%
Domestic production activities	'	'	-0.40%	-0.30%	-0.50%
International	'	'	-17.70%	-16.70%	-16.90%
Puerto Rico Excise Tax	'	'	-1.60%	-1.30%	-1.40%
Impact of restructuring charges, net, certain litigation charges, net, and acquisition-related items	'	'	5.60%	2.00%	0.30%
Reversal of excess tax accruals	'	'	-1.90%	0.00%	-0.80%
Valuation allowance release	'	'	0.00%	-0.20%	-0.80%
Other, net	'	'	-1.80%	0.50%	2.40%
Effective tax rate	19.60%	17.30%	17.30%	18.40%	17.60%
Unrecognized Tax Benefits Reconciliation	'	'	'	'	'
Gross unrecognized tax benefits at beginning of fiscal year	1,172	1,068	1,068	917	769
Gross increases:	'	'	'	'	'
Prior year tax positions	'	'	64	12	47
Current year tax positions	'	'	166	169	171
Gross decreases:	'	'	'	'	'
Prior year tax positions	'	'	-58	-21	-53
Settlements	'	'	-66	-6	-4
Statute of limitation lapses	'	'	-2	-3	-13
Gross unrecognized tax benefits at end of fiscal year	$1,234	'	$1,172	$1,068	$917

Earnings_Per_Share_Detail

Earnings Per Share (Detail) (USD $)

3 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

In Millions, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified

Jul. 25, 2014

Apr. 25, 2014

Jan. 24, 2014

Oct. 25, 2013

Jul. 26, 2013

Apr. 26, 2013

Jan. 25, 2013

Oct. 26, 2012

Jul. 27, 2012

Apr. 25, 2014

Apr. 26, 2013

Apr. 27, 2012

Numerator:

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Net earnings

$871

$448

$762

$902

$953

$969

$988

$646

$864

$3,065

$3,467

$3,617

Denominator

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Basic weighted average shares outstanding (shares)

992.6

'

'

'

1,009.70

'

'

'

'

1,002.10

1,019.30

1,053.90

Effect of dilutive securities:

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Employee stock options (shares)

7.5

'

'

'

6.6

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Employee restricted stock units (shares)

5

'

'

'

4.8

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Other (shares)

0.1

'

'

'

0.1

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Diluted weighted average shares outstanding

1,005.20

'

'

'

1,021.20

'

'

'

'

1,013.60

1,027.50

1,059.90

Basic earnings per share:

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Net earnings (usd per share)

$0.88

$0.45

$0.76

$0.90

$0.94

$0.96

$0.98

$0.63

$0.84

$3.06

$3.40

$3.43

Diluted earnings per share:

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Net earnings (usd per share)

$0.87

$0.44

$0.75

$0.89

$0.93

$0.95

$0.97

$0.63

$0.83

$3.02

$3.37

$3.41

Stock Options

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Diluted earnings per share:

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Antidilutive securities excluded from computation of earnings per share (shares)

'

'

'

'

9

'

'

'

'

5

38

51

StockBased_Compensation_Detail

Stock-Based Compensation (Detail) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Jul. 25, 2014	Jul. 26, 2013	Apr. 25, 2014	Apr. 26, 2013	Apr. 27, 2012
Stock-based Compensation Expense by Component and Classification	'	'	'	'	'
Stock-based compensation expense	$34	$31	$145	$152	$161
Income tax benefits	-9	-8	-40	-43	-45
Total stock-based compensation expense, net of tax	25	23	105	109	116
Cost of Products Sold	'	'	'	'	'
Stock-based Compensation Expense by Component and Classification	'	'	'	'	'
Stock-based compensation expense	4	3	14	12	12
Research and Development Expense	'	'	'	'	'
Stock-based Compensation Expense by Component and Classification	'	'	'	'	'
Stock-based compensation expense	6	6	27	31	29
Selling, General and Administrative Expense	'	'	'	'	'
Stock-based Compensation Expense by Component and Classification	'	'	'	'	'
Stock-based compensation expense	24	22	104	109	118
Stock Options	'	'	'	'	'
Stock-based Compensation Expense by Component and Classification	'	'	'	'	'
Stock-based compensation expense	6	8	34	44	60
Restricted Stock Awards	'	'	'	'	'
Stock-based Compensation Expense by Component and Classification	'	'	'	'	'
Stock-based compensation expense	23	19	'	'	'
Employee Stock Purchase Plan	'	'	'	'	'
Stock-based Compensation Expense by Component and Classification	'	'	'	'	'
Stock-based compensation expense	$5	$4	$13	$12	$13

Retirement_Benefit_Plans_Net_P

Retirement Benefit Plans , Net Periodic Cost and AOCI (Detail) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Jul. 25, 2014	Jul. 26, 2013	Apr. 25, 2014	Apr. 26, 2013	Apr. 27, 2012
U.S. Pension Benefits	'	'	'	'	'
Net Periodic Benefit Cost	'	'	'	'	'
Service cost	$26	$27	$107	$104	$92
Interest cost	26	24	97	94	87
Expected return on plan assets	-39	-35	-141	-128	-121
Amortization of prior service costs (credit)	'	'	1	-1	-1
Amortization of net actuarial loss	16	21	85	71	45
Net periodic benefit cost	29	37	149	140	102
Amounts Recognized in AOCI	'	'	'	'	'
Net actuarial loss (gain)	'	'	-126	'	'
Amortization of prior service cost	'	'	-1	'	'
Amortization of net actuarial gain	'	'	-85	'	'
Effect of exchange rates	'	'	0	'	'
Total recognized in accumulated other comprehensive loss	'	'	-212	'	'
Total recognized in net periodic pension cost and accumulated other comprehensive loss	'	'	-63	'	'
Estimated Amounts That Will be Amortized from AOCI in Next Fiscal Year	'	'	'	'	'
Amortization of net actuarial loss	'	'	65	'	'
Total amounts that will be amortized from AOCI in next fiscal year	'	'	65	'	'
Non-U.S. Pension Benefits	'	'	'	'	'
Net Periodic Benefit Cost	'	'	'	'	'
Service cost	15	14	54	43	42
Interest cost	8	7	29	27	29
Expected return on plan assets	-10	-9	-35	-33	-36
Amortization of prior service costs (credit)	'	'	1	1	1
Amortization of net actuarial loss	3	2	11	8	4
Net periodic benefit cost	16	14	60	46	40
Amounts Recognized in AOCI	'	'	'	'	'
Net actuarial loss (gain)	'	'	61	'	'
Amortization of prior service cost	'	'	-1	'	'
Amortization of net actuarial gain	'	'	-11	'	'
Effect of exchange rates	'	'	14	'	'
Total recognized in accumulated other comprehensive loss	'	'	63	'	'
Total recognized in net periodic pension cost and accumulated other comprehensive loss	'	'	124	'	'
Estimated Amounts That Will be Amortized from AOCI in Next Fiscal Year	'	'	'	'	'
Amortization of net actuarial loss	'	'	13	'	'
Total amounts that will be amortized from AOCI in next fiscal year	'	'	13	'	'
Post-Retirement Benefits	'	'	'	'	'
Net Periodic Benefit Cost	'	'	'	'	'
Service cost	5	5	19	19	19
Interest cost	4	3	14	15	17
Expected return on plan assets	-6	-5	-19	-17	-16
Amortization of prior service costs (credit)	'	'	0	0	0
Amortization of net actuarial loss	0	0	1	3	3
Net periodic benefit cost	3	3	15	20	23
Amounts Recognized in AOCI	'	'	'	'	'
Net actuarial loss (gain)	'	'	-3	'	'
Amortization of prior service cost	'	'	0	'	'
Amortization of net actuarial gain	'	'	-1	'	'
Effect of exchange rates	'	'	0	'	'
Total recognized in accumulated other comprehensive loss	'	'	-4	'	'
Total recognized in net periodic pension cost and accumulated other comprehensive loss	'	'	11	'	'
Estimated Amounts That Will be Amortized from AOCI in Next Fiscal Year	'	'	'	'	'
Amortization of net actuarial loss	'	'	0	'	'
Total amounts that will be amortized from AOCI in next fiscal year	'	'	$0	'	'

Accumulated_Other_Comprehensiv2

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss (Detail) (USD $)	3 Months Ended				12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Jul. 25, 2014		Jul. 26, 2013		Apr. 25, 2014		Apr. 26, 2013	Apr. 27, 2012
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]	'		'		'		'	'
Accumulated other comprehensive loss, beginning of period	($597)		($492)		($492)		($473)	($224)
Other comprehensive (loss) income before reclassifications, before tax	167		-118		-136		'	'
Tax benefit (expense)	-58		42		39		'	'
Other comprehensive (loss) income before reclassifications, net of tax	109		-76		-97		'	'
Reclassifications, before tax	1		-10		-15		'	'
Tax benefit (expense)	-1		2		7		'	'
Reclassifications, net of tax	0		-8		-8		'	'
Other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax	109		-84		-105		-19	-249
Accumulated other comprehensive loss, end of period	-488		-576		-597		-492	-473
Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Available-for-Sale Securities	'		'		'		'	'
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]	'		'		'		'	'
Accumulated other comprehensive loss, beginning of period	-6		97		97		'	'
Other comprehensive (loss) income before reclassifications, before tax	107		-131		-89		'	'
Tax benefit (expense)	-39		48		32		'	'
Other comprehensive (loss) income before reclassifications, net of tax	68		-83		-57		'	'
Reclassifications, before tax	-21		-18		-72		'	'
Tax benefit (expense)	7		6		26		'	'
Reclassifications, net of tax	-14	[1]	-12	[1]	-46	[2]	'	'
Other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax	54		-95		-103		'	'
Accumulated other comprehensive loss, end of period	48		2		-6		'	'
Cumulative Translation Adjustments	'		'		'		'	'
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]	'		'		'		'	'
Accumulated other comprehensive loss, beginning of period	218	[3]	205	[3]	205	[3]	'	'
Other comprehensive (loss) income before reclassifications, before tax	1	[3]	-5	[3]	13	[3]	'	'
Tax benefit (expense)	0	[3]	0	[3]	0	[3]	'	'
Other comprehensive (loss) income before reclassifications, net of tax	1	[3]	-5	[3]	13	[3]	'	'
Reclassifications, before tax	0	[3]	0	[3]	0	[3]	'	'
Tax benefit (expense)	0	[3]	0	[3]	0	[3]	'	'
Reclassifications, net of tax	0	[3]	0	[3]	0	[3]	'	'
Other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax	1	[3]	-5	[3]	13	[3]	'	'
Accumulated other comprehensive loss, end of period	219	[3]	200	[3]	218	[3]	'	'
Net Change in Retirement Obligations	'		'		'		'	'
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]	'		'		'		'	'
Accumulated other comprehensive loss, beginning of period	-765		-852		-852		'	'
Other comprehensive (loss) income before reclassifications, before tax	4		0		60		'	'
Tax benefit (expense)	0		0		-37		'	'
Other comprehensive (loss) income before reclassifications, net of tax	4		0		23		'	'
Reclassifications, before tax	19		23		99		'	'
Tax benefit (expense)	-6		-9		-35		'	'
Reclassifications, net of tax	13	[4]	14	[4]	64	[5]	'	'
Other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax	17		14		87		'	'
Accumulated other comprehensive loss, end of period	-748		-838		-765		'	'
Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Derivatives	'		'		'		'	'
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]	'		'		'		'	'
Accumulated other comprehensive loss, beginning of period	-44		58		58		'	'
Other comprehensive (loss) income before reclassifications, before tax	55		18		-120		'	'
Tax benefit (expense)	-19		-6		44		'	'
Other comprehensive (loss) income before reclassifications, net of tax	36		12		-76		'	'
Reclassifications, before tax	3		-15		-42		'	'
Tax benefit (expense)	-2		5		16		'	'
Reclassifications, net of tax	1	[6]	-10	[6]	-26	[6]	'	'
Other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax	37		2		-102		'	'
Accumulated other comprehensive loss, end of period	($7)		$60		($44)		'	'
[1]	Represents net realized gains on sales of available-for-sale securities that were reclassified from AOCI to other expense, net (see Note 6).
[2]	Represents net realized gains on sales of available-for-sale securities that were reclassified from AOCI to other expense, net (see Note 5).
[3]	Taxes are not provided on CTA as substantially all translation adjustments relate to earnings that are intended to be indefinitely reinvested outside the U.S.
[4]	Includes net amortization of prior service costs and actuarial losses included in net periodic benefit cost (see Note 17).
[5]	Includes net amortization of prior service costs and actuarial losses included in net periodic benefit cost (see Note 14).
[6]	Relates to foreign currency cash flow hedges that were reclassified from AOCI to other expense, net or cost of products sold and forward starting interest rate derivative instruments that were reclassified from AOCI to interest expense, net (see Note 9).

Contingencies_Detail

Contingencies (Detail)

3 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

1 Months Ended

0 Months Ended

3 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

0 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

0 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

3 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

1 Months Ended

Jul. 25, 2014

Jul. 26, 2013

Apr. 25, 2014

Apr. 26, 2013

Apr. 27, 2012

31-May-12

Jan. 15, 2014

Feb. 28, 2013

Apr. 01, 2010

Mar. 19, 2010

Oct. 26, 2012

Apr. 25, 2014

Apr. 26, 2013

19-May-14

Apr. 25, 2014

Aug. 26, 2013

Mar. 12, 2010

Mar. 19, 2010

Jul. 25, 2014

Apr. 25, 2014

Apr. 25, 2014

Jul. 25, 2014

Jul. 25, 2014

Apr. 25, 2014

31-May-14

USD ($)

USD ($)

USD ($)

USD ($)

USD ($)

Shareholder Related Litigation Lawsuits

Litigation with Edwards Lifesciences Corporation

Litigation with Edwards Lifesciences Corporation

Litigation with Edwards Lifesciences Corporation

Litigation with Edwards Lifesciences Corporation

Litigation with Edwards Lifesciences Corporation

Litigation with Edwards Lifesciences Corporation

Litigation with Edwards Lifesciences Corporation

Litigation with Edwards Lifesciences Corporation

Litigation with Edwards Lifesciences Corporation

Litigation with Edwards Lifesciences Corporation

Litigation with Edwards Lifesciences Corporation

Existing Litigation, Edwards Life Sciences Inc

INFUSE Product Liability Litigation

INFUSE Product Liability Litigation

INFUSE Product Liability Litigation

INFUSE Product Liability Litigation

Other Litigation Matters

Other Litigation Matters

Other Litigation Matters

Lawsuits

USD ($)

USD ($)

USD ($)

Patent

USD ($)

USD ($)

USD ($)

Subsequent Event

Subsequent Event

Edwards Lifesciences, Inc.

Pending Litigation

Pending Litigation

PersonalInjuryCases

PersonalInjuryCases

USD ($)

Claim

USD ($)

USD ($)

Subsequent Event

USD ($)

USD ($)

EUR (€)

Patent

Patent

Claim

Claim

Claim

Lawsuits

USD ($)

Lawsuits

Lawsuits

Lawsuits

Loss Contingency, Information about Litigation Matters

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Claims filed, number

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

750

750

750

'

'

'

Loss contingency, number of individual personal injury claims

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

1,200

1,200

'

'

'

'

'

Estimated number of unfiled claimants

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

3,600

3,600

3,600

'

'

'

Certain litigation charges, net

'

'

$770,000,000

$245,000,000

$90,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

$245,000,000

$589,000,000

$245,000,000

'

$589,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

$140,000,000

'

$3,000,000

$10,000,000

'

Loss Contingency, New Claims Filed, Number

'

'

'

'

'

2

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Patents allegedly infringed, number

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

3

'

'

'

'

'

'

3

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Patents found not infringed, number

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

2

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

2

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Damages awarded to plaintiff

'

'

'

'

'

'

394,000,000

'

74,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Payments for Legal Settlements

761,000,000

0

15,000,000

175,000,000

241,000,000

'

'

84,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Loss Contingency, bond paid by Edwards to enforce injunction

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

50,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Settlement amount

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

750,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

10,000,000

Minimum annual payments

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

$40,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Agreement term

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'8 years

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Name of defendant

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'Medtronic CoreValve LLC

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Name of plaintiff

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'Edwards

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Segment_and_Geographic_Informa2

Segment and Geographic Information (Detail) (USD $)

3 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

In Millions, unless otherwise specified

Jul. 25, 2014

Apr. 25, 2014

Jan. 24, 2014

Oct. 25, 2013

Jul. 26, 2013

Apr. 26, 2013

Jan. 25, 2013

Oct. 26, 2012

Jul. 27, 2012

Apr. 25, 2014

Apr. 26, 2013

Apr. 27, 2012

Segment

Segment

Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Number of Reportable Segments

3

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

3

'

'

Net Assets by Reportable Segment

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Number of Operating Segments

3

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

3

'

'

Short-term borrowings

($2,477)

($1,613)

'

'

'

($910)

'

'

'

($1,613)

($910)

'

Long-term debt

-10,323

-10,315

'

'

'

-9,741

'

'

'

-10,315

-9,741

'

Geographic Information

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Net Sales

4,273

4,566

4,163

4,194

4,083

4,459

4,027

4,095

4,008

17,005

16,590

16,184

Net sales to external customers

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

17,005

16,590

16,184

Property, plant, and equipment, net

2,376

2,392

'

'

'

2,490

'

'

'

2,392

2,490

2,473

Earnings before Income Taxes by Reportable Segment

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Reportable segments' earnings before income taxes

1,242

'

'

'

1,252

'

'

'

'

5,260

5,145

4,875

Special charges

0

'

'

'

-40

'

'

'

'

-40

0

0

Restructuring charges, net

-30

'

'

'

-18

'

'

'

'

-78

-172

-87

Acquisition-related items

-41

'

'

'

96

'

'

'

'

-117

49

-12

Interest expense, net

-5

'

'

'

-40

'

'

'

'

-108

-151

-149

Corporate

-83

'

'

'

-97

'

'

'

'

-432

-365

-392

Earnings before income taxes

1,083

'

'

'

1,153

'

'

'

'

3,705

4,251

4,145

Restructuring Charges, Net of Reversals Including Cost of Product Sold Impact

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

-88

[1]

-182

[1]

-87

[1]

Certain litigation charges, net

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

-770

-245

-90

Assets, Net

'

19,443

'

'

'

18,671

'

'

'

19,443

18,671

'

Corporate, Non-Segment

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Earnings before Income Taxes by Reportable Segment

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Assets, Net

'

13,370

'

'

'

10,466

'

'

'

13,370

10,466

'

Cardiac and Vascular Group

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Earnings before Income Taxes by Reportable Segment

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Reportable segments' earnings before income taxes

712

'

'

'

756

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Restorative Therapies Group

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Earnings before Income Taxes by Reportable Segment

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Reportable segments' earnings before income taxes

410

'

'

'

421

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Diabetes Group

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Earnings before Income Taxes by Reportable Segment

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Reportable segments' earnings before income taxes

120

'

'

'

75

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Customer Concentration Risk | Sales Revenue, Net

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Earnings before Income Taxes by Reportable Segment

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Concentration Risk, Customer

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

0

0

0

United States

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Geographic Information

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Net Sales

2,333

'

'

'

2,206

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Net sales to external customers

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

9,209

9,059

8,828

Property, plant, and equipment, net

'

1,762

'

'

'

1,849

'

'

'

1,762

1,849

1,894

Europe and Canada

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Geographic Information

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Net Sales

1,081

'

'

'

1,046

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Net sales to external customers

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

4,380

4,199

4,313

Property, plant, and equipment, net

'

388

'

'

'

391

'

'

'

388

391

389

Asia Pacific

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Geographic Information

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Net Sales

649

'

'

'

656

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Net sales to external customers

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

2,600

2,604

2,399

Property, plant, and equipment, net

'

195

'

'

'

206

'

'

'

195

206

154

Other Foreign

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Geographic Information

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Net Sales

210

'

'

'

175

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Net sales to external customers

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

816

728

644

Property, plant, and equipment, net

'

47

'

'

'

44

'

'

'

47

44

36

Cardiac and Vascular Group

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Net Assets by Reportable Segment

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Number of Businesses

3

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

4

'

'

Geographic Information

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Net Sales

2,254

'

'

'

2,160

'

'

'

'

8,847

8,695

8,482

Earnings before Income Taxes by Reportable Segment

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Reportable segments' earnings before income taxes

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

2,982

2,935

2,772

Assets, Net

'

6,578

'

'

'

6,941

'

'

'

6,578

6,941

'

Restorative Therapies Group

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Net Assets by Reportable Segment

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Number of Businesses

3

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

3

'

'

Geographic Information

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Net Sales

1,603

'

'

'

1,554

'

'

'

'

6,501

6,369

6,221

Earnings before Income Taxes by Reportable Segment

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Reportable segments' earnings before income taxes

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

1,821

1,778

1,707

Assets, Net

'

9,604

'

'

'

10,058

'

'

'

9,604

10,058

'

Diabetes Group

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Geographic Information

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Net Sales

416

'

'

'

369

'

'

'

'

1,657

1,526

1,481

Earnings before Income Taxes by Reportable Segment

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Reportable segments' earnings before income taxes

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

457

432

396

Assets, Net

'

1,819

'

'

'

1,857

'

'

'

1,819

1,857

'

Operating Segments

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Earnings before Income Taxes by Reportable Segment

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Assets, Net

'

$18,001

'

'

'

$18,856

'

'

'

$18,001

$18,856

'

[1]

For fiscal years 2014 and 2013, restructuring charges, net within this table include the impact of amounts recorded within cost of products sold in the consolidated statements of earnings related to the fiscal year 2014 initiative and fiscal year 2013 initiative, respectively.

Subsequent_Events_Detail

Subsequent Events (Detail) (USD $)

Jun. 13, 2014

Jul. 25, 2014

Jun. 15, 2014

Jun. 13, 2014

Jun. 15, 2014

Oct. 03, 2014

Jul. 25, 2014

Apr. 25, 2014

Nov. 07, 2014

Jun. 15, 2014

Jul. 25, 2014

Nov. 07, 2014

Jul. 25, 2014

Nov. 07, 2014

Jun. 15, 2014

Jul. 25, 2014

Nov. 07, 2014

Jul. 25, 2014

Nov. 07, 2014

Jul. 25, 2014

Covidien PLC

Covidien PLC

Subsequent Event

Subsequent Event

Subsequent Event

Line Of Credit Facility 2017

Line Of Credit Facility 2017

Amended and Restated Revolving Credit Facility

Covidien PLC

Parent Company

Parent Company

Parent Company

Parent Company

Parent Company

Parent Company

Parent Company

IrSub

IrSub

IrSub

Covidien PLC

Covidien PLC

Credit Facility

Credit Facility

Subsequent Event

Subsequent Event

Term Loan Credit Agreement [Member]

Term Loan Credit Agreement [Member]

Bridge Loan

Bridge Loan

Bridge Loan

Bridge Loan

Bridge Loan

Bridge Loan

Bridge Loan

Bridge Loan

Credit Facility

New Medtronic

Subsequent Event

Subsequent Event

Senior Unsecured Bridge Credit Agreement

Senior Unsecured Bridge Credit Agreement

Senior Unsecured Bridge Credit Agreement

Senior Unsecured Bridge Credit Agreement

Senior Unsecured Bridge Credit Agreement

Senior Unsecured Cash Bridge Credit Agreement

Senior Unsecured Cash Bridge Credit Agreement

Senior Unsecured Cash Bridge Credit Agreement

Subsequent Event

Subsequent Event

Subsequent Event

Subsequent Event

Subsequent Event

Subsequent Event

Subsequent Event [Line Items]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Maximum aggregate principal amount to be borrowed

'

'

'

'

'

'

$2,250,000,000

$2,250,000,000

$3,500,000,000

'

'

$5,000,000,000

'

'

$2,800,000,000

'

$11,300,000,000

'

'

'

Debt term

'

'

'

'

'

'

'5 years

'

'

'

'3 years

'

'364 days

'

'364 days

'364 days

'

'60 days

'

'60 days

Terminated loan

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

2,800,000,000

'

'

'

'

13,500,000,000

'

Cash required to finance the cash component of transaction

'

13,200,000,000

'

'

'

16,300,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Cash issued per share

'

'

'

'

$35.19

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Stock issued per share

'

'

'

'

0.956

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Total consideration

'

'

'

'

42,900,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Share price

$60.70

'

'

$60.70

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Ownership percentage

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

30.00%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Termination fee

'

'

850,000,000

'

850,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Additional capital required

'

'

'

'

$13,500,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Summary_of_Significant_Account2

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Detail) (USD $)

3 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

In Millions, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified

Jul. 25, 2014

Apr. 25, 2014

Jan. 24, 2014

Oct. 25, 2013

Jul. 26, 2013

Apr. 26, 2013

Jan. 25, 2013

Oct. 26, 2012

Jul. 27, 2012

Apr. 25, 2014

Apr. 26, 2013

Apr. 27, 2012

Apr. 29, 2011

Property, Plant, and Equipment

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Property, plant, and equipment, gross

$6,541

$6,439

'

'

'

$6,152

'

'

'

$6,439

$6,152

'

'

Less: Accumulated depreciation

-4,165

-4,047

'

'

'

-3,662

'

'

'

-4,047

-3,662

'

'

Property, plant, and equipment, net

2,376

2,392

'

'

'

2,490

'

'

'

2,392

2,490

2,473

'

Depreciation expense

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

501

488

498

'

Accrued Certain Litigation Charges

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Certain loss contingency accruals

'

917

'

'

'

161

'

'

'

917

161

'

'

Shipping and handling costs

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

194

182

167

'

AOCI

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Unrealized Gain/(Loss) on Investments

'

'

'

'

'

97

'

'

'

'

97

130

196

Cumulative Translation Adjustments

'

'

'

'

'

205

'

'

'

'

205

306

443

Net Change in Retirement Obligations

'

'

'

'

'

-852

'

'

'

'

-852

-834

-607

Unrealized Gain/(Loss) on Derivatives

'

'

'

'

'

58

'

'

'

'

58

-75

-256

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss

-488

-597

'

'

-576

-492

'

'

'

-597

-492

-473

-224

OCI

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Unrealized Gain/(Loss) on Investments

54

'

'

'

-95

'

'

'

'

-103

-33

-66

'

Cumulative Translation Adjustments

1

'

'

'

-5

'

'

'

'

13

-21

-137

'

Net Change in Retirement Obligations

17

'

'

'

14

'

'

'

'

87

-18

-227

'

Unrealized Gain/(Loss) on Derivatives

37

'

'

'

2

'

'

'

'

-102

53

181

'

Other comprehensive income (loss)

109

'

'

'

-84

'

'

'

'

-105

-19

-249

'

Correction of classification

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

-80

'

'

Correction of classification

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

80

'

'

Earnings Per Share Reconciliation

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Earnings from continuing operations

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

3,065

3,467

3,415

'

Earnings from discontinued operations

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

0

0

202

'

Net earnings

871

448

762

902

953

969

988

646

864

3,065

3,467

3,617

'

Basic weighted average shares outstanding

992.6

'

'

'

1,009.70

'

'

'

'

1,002.10

1,019.30

1,053.90

'

Effect of dilutive securities:

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Employee stock options

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

7.1

2.8

0.9

'

Employee restricted stock units

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

4.3

5.3

4.9

'

Other

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

0.1

0.1

0.2

'

Diluted weighted average shares outstanding

1,005.20

'

'

'

1,021.20

'

'

'

'

1,013.60

1,027.50

1,059.90

'

Basic earnings per share:

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Earnings from continuing operations (per share)

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

$3.06

$3.40

$3.24

'

Earnings from discontinued operations (per share)

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

$0

$0

$0.19

'

Net earnings (per share)

$0.88

$0.45

$0.76

$0.90

$0.94

$0.96

$0.98

$0.63

$0.84

$3.06

$3.40

$3.43

'

Diluted earnings per share:

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Earnings from continuing operations (per share)

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

$3.02

$3.37

$3.22

'

Earnings from discontinued operations (per share)

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

$0

$0

$0.19

'

Net earnings (per share)

$0.87

$0.44

$0.75

$0.89

$0.93

$0.95

$0.97

$0.63

$0.83

$3.02

$3.37

$3.41

'

Senior convertible notes

2,477

1,613

'

'

'

910

'

'

'

1,613

910

'

'

Land and land improvements

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Property, Plant, and Equipment

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Property, plant, and equipment, gross

'

152

'

'

'

151

'

'

'

152

151

'

'

Buildings and leasehold improvements

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Property, Plant, and Equipment

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Property, plant, and equipment, gross

'

1,565

'

'

'

1,532

'

'

'

1,565

1,532

'

'

Equipment

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Property, Plant, and Equipment

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Property, plant, and equipment, gross

'

4,409

'

'

'

4,110

'

'

'

4,409

4,110

'

'

Construction in progress

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Property, Plant, and Equipment

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Property, plant, and equipment, gross

'

$313

'

'

'

$359

'

'

'

$313

$359

'

'

Minimum

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Intangible Assets

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Intangible assets, estimated useful life

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'3 years

'

'

'

Minimum | Equipment

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Property, Plant, and Equipment

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Property, plant, and equipment, estimate useful life (in years)

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'3 years

'

'

'

Maximum

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Intangible Assets

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Intangible assets, estimated useful life

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'20 years

'

'

'

Maximum | Land and land improvements

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Property, Plant, and Equipment

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Property, plant, and equipment, estimate useful life (in years)

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'20 years

'

'

'

Maximum | Buildings and leasehold improvements

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Property, Plant, and Equipment

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Property, plant, and equipment, estimate useful life (in years)

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'40 years

'

'

'

Maximum | Equipment

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Property, Plant, and Equipment

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Property, plant, and equipment, estimate useful life (in years)

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'7 years

'

'

'

Stock Options

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Diluted earnings per share:

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Number of shares excluded from computation of earnings per share

'

'

'

'

9

'

'

'

'

5

38

51

'

Financing_Arrangements_Longter

Financing Arrangements , Long-term Debt Maturities (Detail) (USD $)	Apr. 25, 2014
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Long-term Debt, Fiscal Year Maturity	'
2015	$1,601
2016	1,112
2017	531
2018	1,018
2019	419
Thereafter	7,184
Total debt	11,865
Less: Current portion of debt	1,601
Long-term portion of debt	$10,264

Shareholders_Equity_Detail

Shareholders' Equity (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Apr. 25, 2014	Apr. 26, 2013	Jun. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2011
Equity, Class of Treasury Stock [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Number of common stock authorized to be repurchased (in shares)	'	'	80	75
Shares repurchased (in shares)	47.8	31.2	'	'
Average repurchase price (per share)	$53.37	$39.97	'	'
June 2013 Share Repurchase Program	'	'	'	'
Equity, Class of Treasury Stock [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Shares repurchased (in shares)	20.6	'	'	'
Shares available for future repurchases (in shares)	59.4	'	'	'

Stock_Purchase_and_Award_Plans2

Stock Purchase and Award Plans , ESPP, Valuation Assumptions and Compensation Expense (Detail) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		12 Months Ended
In Millions, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Jul. 25, 2014	Jul. 26, 2013	Apr. 25, 2014		Apr. 26, 2013		Apr. 27, 2012
Fair Value Assumptions Used in Black-Scholes Model	'	'	'		'		'
Weighted average fair value of options granted (per share)	'	'	$12		$7.42		$6.88
Expected life (years)	'	'	'6 years 4 months 24 days	[1]	'6 years 6 months	[1]	'6 years 4 months 24 days	[1]
Risk-free interest rate	'	'	1.88%	[2]	0.94%	[2]	1.82%	[2]
Volatility	'	'	25.20%	[3]	26.22%	[3]	25.97%	[3]
Dividend yield	'	'	2.02%	[4]	2.64%	[4]	2.78%	[4]
Stock-based Compensation Expense by Plan	'	'	'		'		'
Stock-based compensation expense	$34	$31	$145		$152		$161
Income tax benefits	-9	-8	-40		-43		-45
Total stock-based compensation expense, net of tax	25	23	105		109		116
Cost of Products Sold	'	'	'		'		'
Stock-based Compensation Expense by Plan	'	'	'		'		'
Stock-based compensation expense	4	3	14		12		12
Research and Development Expense	'	'	'		'		'
Stock-based Compensation Expense by Plan	'	'	'		'		'
Stock-based compensation expense	6	6	27		31		29
Selling, General and Administrative Expense	'	'	'		'		'
Stock-based Compensation Expense by Plan	'	'	'		'		'
Stock-based compensation expense	24	22	104		109		118
Physio-Control Divestiture-related Costs	'	'	'		'		'
Stock-based Compensation Expense by Plan	'	'	'		'		'
Stock-based compensation expense	'	'	0		0		2
Stock Options	'	'	'		'		'
Share-based Payments	'	'	'		'		'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Expiration Period	'	'	'10 years		'		'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Vesting Period	'	'	'4 years		'		'
Stock-based Compensation Expense by Plan	'	'	'		'		'
Stock-based compensation expense	6	8	34		44		60
Restricted Stock Awards	'	'	'		'		'
Share-based Payments	'	'	'		'		'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Vesting Period	'	'	'4 years		'		'
Stock-based Compensation Expense by Plan	'	'	'		'		'
Stock-based compensation expense	'	'	98		96		86
Performance-Based Restricted Stock Award	'	'	'		'		'
Share-based Payments	'	'	'		'		'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Vesting Period	'	'	'3 years		'		'
Employee Stock Purchase Plan	'	'	'		'		'
Employees Stock Purchase Plan	'	'	'		'		'
Maximum employee contribution rate	'	'	10.00%		'		'
Purchase price of common stock as a percentage of its fair market value	'	'	85.00%		'		'
Shares purchased by employees (in shares)	'	'	2		'		'
Average purchase price	'	'	$47.32		'		'
Amount withheld to purchase common stock	'	'	6		'		'
Shares available for future purchase (in shares)	'	'	6		'		'
The discount rate from market value on purchase date	'	'	15.00%		'		'
Stock-based Compensation Expense by Plan	'	'	'		'		'
Stock-based compensation expense	5	4	13		12		13
Physio-Control Award Acceleration	'	'	'		'		'
Stock-based Compensation Expense by Plan	'	'	'		'		'
Stock-based compensation expense	'	'	$0		$0		$2
2013 Plan	'	'	'		'		'
Share-based Payments	'	'	'		'		'
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Available for Grant	'	'	70		'		'
[1]	Expected life: The Company analyzes historical employee stock option exercise and termination data to estimate the expected life assumption. The Company calculates the expected life assumption using the midpoint scenario, which combines historical exercise data with hypothetical exercise data, as the Company believes this data currently represents the best estimate of the expected life of a new employee option. The Company also stratifies its employee population into two groups based upon distinctive exercise behavior patterns.
[2]	Risk-free interest rate: The rate is based on the grant date yield of a zero-coupon U.S. Treasury bond whose maturity period equals the expected term of the option.
[3]	Volatility: Expected volatility is based on a blend of historical volatility and an implied volatility of the Company's common stock. Implied volatility is based on market traded options of the Company's common stock.
[4]	Dividend yield: The dividend yield rate is calculated by dividing the Company's annual dividend, based on the most recent quarterly dividend rate, by the closing stock price on the grant date.

Stock_Purchase_and_Award_Plans3

Stock Purchase and Award Plans , Stock Options Activity (Detail) (Stock Options, USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, except Share data in Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Apr. 25, 2014	Apr. 26, 2013	Apr. 27, 2012
Stock Options	'	'	'
Stock Options Activities (in shares)	'	'	'
Beginning balance	62,020	74,590	84,652
Granted	2,983	4,437	4,634
Exercised	-27,527	-6,096	-1,218
Canceled	-1,899	-10,911	-13,478
Outstanding at year-end	35,577	62,020	74,590
Exercisable at year-end	26,997	50,908	60,833
Stock Options Activities (per share)	'	'	'
Beginning balance	$44.98	$44.80	$45.23
Granted	$55.36	$39.54	$34.93
Exercised	$46.26	$37.73	$34.95
Canceled	$46.44	$45.57	$44.98
Outstanding at year-end	$44.78	$44.98	$44.80
Exercisable at year-end	$45.22	$46.65	$46.73
Weighted average remaining contractual life for options outstanding	'4 years 6 months 11 days	'	'
Weighted average remaining contractual life for options exercisable	'3 years 4 months 20 days	'	'
Total intrinsic value of options exercised	$249	$39	$5
Intrinsic value of in-the-money options outstanding	477	'	'
Intrinsic value of in-the-money options exercisable	351	'	'
Cash received from the exercise of stock options	1,273	'	'
Tax benefit from stock options exercised	78	'	'
Unrecognized compensation expense related to outstanding stock options	$40	'	'
Weighted average period over which unrecognized compensation is expected to be recognized	'2 years 6 months	'	'

Stock_Purchase_and_Award_Plans4

Stock Purchase and Award Plans , Restricted Stock Award Activity (Detail) (Restricted Stock Awards, USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, except Share data in Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Apr. 25, 2014	Apr. 26, 2013	Apr. 27, 2012
Restricted Stock Awards	'	'	'
Restricted Stock Award Activity (in shares)	'	'	'
Nonvested, beginning balance	10,058	9,980	9,207
Granted	2,519	3,135	3,785
Vested	-2,210	-2,445	-2,194
Forfeited	-809	-612	-818
Nonvested at year-end	9,558	10,058	9,980
Restricted Stock Award Activity (per share)	'	'	'
Nonvested, beginning balance	$38.97	$37.80	$40.42
Granted	$55.62	$39.53	$35.60
Vested	$35.76	$35.58	$44.74
Forfeited	$39.41	$36.34	$38.46
Nonvested at year-end	$44.06	$38.97	$37.80
Unrecognized compensation expense related to restricted stock awards	$170	'	'
Weighted average period over which unrecognized compensation is expected to be recognized	'3 years 4 months 24 days	'	'

Income_Taxes_Other_Disclosures

Income Taxes , Other Disclosures (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Apr. 25, 2014	Apr. 26, 2013	Apr. 27, 2012	Jul. 25, 2014
Other Income Tax	'	'	'	'
Tax benefit associated with the reversal of excess tax accruals	$71	'	'	'
Tax benefit related to the settlement of certain issues reached with the U.S. Internal Revenue Services	63	'	'	'
Tax benefit associated with the release of a valuation allowance	'	'	33	'
Undistributed earnings from non-U.S. subsidiaries	20,529	18,123	16,033	'
Unrecognized tax benefits that would impact effective tax rate	1,104	1,028	858	1,138
Accrued income tax penalties and interest	141	88	120	157
Interest expense	$36	$33	$32	'
Puerto Rico, Switzerland and Singapore	'	'	'	'
Other Income Tax	'	'	'	'
Impact on diluted earnings per share	$0.42	$0.42	$0.43	'

Retirement_Benefit_Plans_Other

Retirement Benefit Plans , Other Disclosures (Detail) (USD $)

12 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

In Millions, unless otherwise specified

Apr. 25, 2014

Apr. 26, 2013

Apr. 27, 2012

Apr. 30, 2010

Apr. 25, 2014

Apr. 26, 2013

Apr. 27, 2012

Apr. 25, 2014

Apr. 26, 2013

1-May-05

Apr. 25, 2014

Apr. 25, 2014

Apr. 26, 2013

PIA

PIA

PIA

U.S. Pension Benefits

U.S. Pension Benefits

U.S. Pension Benefits

U.S. Pension Benefits

Post-Retirement Benefits

Post-Retirement Benefits

plan

Minimum

Retirement Benefit Plans Disclosure

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Cost of retirement benefit plans

$419

$419

$319

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Underfunded status of the plan

-488

-584

'

'

'

'

'

-286

-437

'

'

-60

-69

Non-cash charge due to PPACA and Reconciliation Act

'

'

'

15

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Defined Benefit Plan, Funded Percentage

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

80.00%

'

'

Plan funded percentage description

'in excess of 80 percent

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Expected decline in healthcare cost trend rates of 5 year period

'The trend rates are expected to decline to 5.0 percent over a five-year period.

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Decline in ultimate health care cost trend rate

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

5.00%

'

Period of ultimate trend rate

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'5 years

'

Defined Contribution Savings Plan

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Expense under defined contribution plans

$145

$163

$106

'

$50

$50

$48

'

'

'

'

'

'

Number of new plans created

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

2

'

'

'

Treasury bond rate of guaranteed rate of return

'10 years

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Retirement_Benefit_Plans_Chang

Retirement Benefit Plans , Change in Benefit Obligation and Funded Status (Detail) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Jul. 25, 2014	Jul. 26, 2013	Apr. 25, 2014	Apr. 26, 2013	Apr. 27, 2012
Funded status at end of year:	'	'	'	'	'
Underfunded status of the plan	'	'	($488)	($584)	'
Amounts recognized on the consolidated balance sheet consist of:	'	'	'	'	'
Non-current liabilities	-680	'	-662	-752	'
Plans with accumulated benefit obligations in excess of plan assets	'	'	'	'	'
Accumulated benefit obligation	'	'	2,426	2,003	'
Projected benefit obligation	'	'	2,703	2,243	'
Plan asset at fair value	'	'	2,268	1,740	'
Plans with projected benefit obligations in excess of plan assets	'	'	'	'	'
Projected benefit obligation	'	'	2,864	2,637	'
Plan assets at fair value	'	'	2,419	2,104	'
U.S. Pension Benefits	'	'	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure	'	'	'	'	'
Accumulated benefit obligation at end of year	'	'	1,996	1,924	'
Change in projected benefit obligation:	'	'	'	'	'
Projected benefit obligation at beginning of year	2,203	2,154	2,154	1,877	'
Service cost	26	27	107	104	92
Interest cost	26	24	97	94	87
Employee contributions	'	'	0	0	'
Plan amendments	'	'	0	0	'
Plan curtailments	'	'	0	0	'
Actuarial loss (gain)	'	'	-104	151	'
Benefits paid	'	'	-51	-72	'
Medicare Part D reimbursements	'	'	0	0	'
Foreign currency exchange rate changes	'	'	0	0	'
Projected benefit obligation at end of year	'	'	2,203	2,154	1,877
Change in plan assets:	'	'	'	'	'
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year	1,917	1,717	1,717	1,470	'
Actual return on plan assets	'	'	163	129	'
Employer contributions	'	'	88	190	'
Employee contributions	'	'	0	0	'
Benefits paid	'	'	-51	-72	'
Foreign currency exchange rate changes	'	'	0	0	'
Fair value of plan assets at end of year	'	'	1,917	1,717	1,470
Funded status at end of year:	'	'	'	'	'
Fair value of plan assets	'	'	1,917	1,717	1,470
Benefit obligations	'	'	2,203	2,154	1,877
Underfunded status of the plan	'	'	-286	-437	'
Recognized liability	'	'	-286	-437	'
Amounts recognized on the consolidated balance sheet consist of:	'	'	'	'	'
Non-current assets	'	'	0	0	'
Current liabilities	'	'	-10	-9	'
Non-current liabilities	'	'	-276	-428	'
Recognized liability	'	'	-286	-437	'
Amounts recognized in accumulated other comprehensive (loss)/income:	'	'	'	'	'
Prior service (benefit) cost	'	'	4	5	'
Net actuarial loss	'	'	837	1,048	'
Ending balance	'	'	841	1,053	'
Non-U.S. Pension Benefits	'	'	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure	'	'	'	'	'
Accumulated benefit obligation at end of year	'	'	871	689	'
Change in projected benefit obligation:	'	'	'	'	'
Projected benefit obligation at beginning of year	1,031	811	811	717	'
Service cost	15	14	54	43	42
Interest cost	8	7	29	27	29
Employee contributions	'	'	16	15	'
Plan amendments	'	'	0	-8	'
Plan curtailments	'	'	-2	'	'
Actuarial loss (gain)	'	'	88	65	'
Benefits paid	'	'	-27	-25	'
Medicare Part D reimbursements	'	'	0	0	'
Foreign currency exchange rate changes	'	'	62	-23	'
Projected benefit obligation at end of year	'	'	1,031	811	717
Change in plan assets:	'	'	'	'	'
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year	889	733	733	638	'
Actual return on plan assets	'	'	61	69	'
Employer contributions	'	'	48	49	'
Employee contributions	'	'	16	15	'
Benefits paid	'	'	-27	-25	'
Foreign currency exchange rate changes	'	'	58	-13	'
Fair value of plan assets at end of year	'	'	889	733	638
Funded status at end of year:	'	'	'	'	'
Fair value of plan assets	'	'	889	733	638
Benefit obligations	'	'	1,031	811	717
Underfunded status of the plan	'	'	-142	-78	'
Recognized liability	'	'	-142	-78	'
Amounts recognized on the consolidated balance sheet consist of:	'	'	'	'	'
Non-current assets	'	'	17	19	'
Current liabilities	'	'	-4	-4	'
Non-current liabilities	'	'	-155	-93	'
Recognized liability	'	'	-142	-78	'
Amounts recognized in accumulated other comprehensive (loss)/income:	'	'	'	'	'
Prior service (benefit) cost	'	'	-2	-1	'
Net actuarial loss	'	'	254	190	'
Ending balance	'	'	252	189	'
Post-Retirement Benefits	'	'	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure	'	'	'	'	'
Accumulated benefit obligation at end of year	'	'	327	302	'
Change in projected benefit obligation:	'	'	'	'	'
Projected benefit obligation at beginning of year	327	302	302	339	'
Service cost	5	5	19	19	19
Interest cost	4	3	14	15	17
Employee contributions	'	'	9	9	'
Plan amendments	'	'	0	0	'
Plan curtailments	'	'	'	0	'
Actuarial loss (gain)	'	'	1	-62	'
Benefits paid	'	'	-19	-19	'
Medicare Part D reimbursements	'	'	1	1	'
Foreign currency exchange rate changes	'	'	0	0	'
Projected benefit obligation at end of year	'	'	327	302	339
Change in plan assets:	'	'	'	'	'
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year	267	233	233	204	'
Actual return on plan assets	'	'	24	19	'
Employer contributions	'	'	20	20	'
Employee contributions	'	'	9	9	'
Benefits paid	'	'	-19	-19	'
Foreign currency exchange rate changes	'	'	0	0	'
Fair value of plan assets at end of year	'	'	267	233	204
Funded status at end of year:	'	'	'	'	'
Fair value of plan assets	'	'	267	233	204
Benefit obligations	'	'	327	302	339
Underfunded status of the plan	'	'	-60	-69	'
Recognized liability	'	'	-60	-69	'
Amounts recognized on the consolidated balance sheet consist of:	'	'	'	'	'
Non-current assets	'	'	0	0	'
Current liabilities	'	'	-1	-1	'
Non-current liabilities	'	'	-59	-68	'
Recognized liability	'	'	-60	-69	'
Amounts recognized in accumulated other comprehensive (loss)/income:	'	'	'	'	'
Prior service (benefit) cost	'	'	-3	-3	'
Net actuarial loss	'	'	39	43	'
Ending balance	'	'	$36	$40	'

Retirement_Benefit_Plans_Actua

Retirement Benefit Plans , Actuarial Assumptions and Plan Assets Target Allocations (Detail)	12 Months Ended
	Apr. 25, 2014	Apr. 26, 2013	Apr. 27, 2012
U.S. Pension Benefits	'	'	'
Weighted average assumptions - projected benefit obligation:	'	'	'
Discount rate	4.75%	4.55%	5.05%
Rate of compensation increase	3.90%	3.90%	3.80%
Weighted average assumptions - net period benefit cost:	'	'	'
Discount rate	4.55%	5.05%	5.80%
Expected return on plan assets	8.25%	8.25%	8.25%
Rate of compensation increase	3.90%	3.80%	3.80%
Plan Assets Target Allocations	'	'	'
Target allocations	100.00%	100.00%	'
U.S. Pension Benefits | Equity Securities	'	'	'
Plan Assets Target Allocations	'	'	'
Target allocations	50.00%	50.00%	'
U.S. Pension Benefits | Debt Securities	'	'	'
Plan Assets Target Allocations	'	'	'
Target allocations	20.00%	20.00%	'
U.S. Pension Benefits | Other	'	'	'
Plan Assets Target Allocations	'	'	'
Target allocations	30.00%	30.00%	'
Non-U.S. Pension Benefits	'	'	'
Weighted average assumptions - projected benefit obligation:	'	'	'
Discount rate	3.32%	3.52%	3.98%
Rate of compensation increase	2.80%	2.78%	2.85%
Weighted average assumptions - net period benefit cost:	'	'	'
Discount rate	3.52%	3.98%	4.75%
Expected return on plan assets	4.76%	5.19%	5.82%
Rate of compensation increase	2.78%	2.85%	2.97%
Plan Assets Target Allocations	'	'	'
Target allocations	100.00%	100.00%	'
Non-U.S. Pension Benefits | Equity Securities	'	'	'
Plan Assets Target Allocations	'	'	'
Target allocations	41.00%	40.00%	'
Non-U.S. Pension Benefits | Debt Securities	'	'	'
Plan Assets Target Allocations	'	'	'
Target allocations	22.00%	22.00%	'
Non-U.S. Pension Benefits | Other	'	'	'
Plan Assets Target Allocations	'	'	'
Target allocations	37.00%	38.00%	'
Post-Retirement Benefits	'	'	'
Weighted average assumptions - projected benefit obligation:	'	'	'
Discount rate	4.75%	4.55%	5.05%
Initial health care cost trend rate pre-65	7.50%	7.75%	7.50%
Initial health care cost trend rate post-65	6.75%	7.00%	7.25%
Weighted average assumptions - net period benefit cost:	'	'	'
Discount rate	4.55%	5.05%	5.80%
Expected return on plan assets	8.25%	8.25%	8.25%
Initial health care cost trend rate pre-65	7.75%	7.50%	7.75%
Initial health care cost trend rate post-65	7.00%	7.25%	7.50%

Retirement_Benefit_Plans_Fair_

Retirement Benefit Plans , Fair Value Measurement (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Apr. 25, 2014	Apr. 26, 2013	Apr. 27, 2012
Partnerships | Minimum	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure	'	'	'
Range of notice period	'45 days	'	'
Partnerships | Maximum	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure	'	'	'
Range of notice period	'95 days	'	'
Absolute Return Strategy Funds	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure	'	'	'
Number of funds	2	'	'
Investments at fair value	$5	'	'
Partnership Exit, Expected Term of Distribution Payments	'5 years	'	'
Private Equity Funds	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure	'	'	'
Unfunded commitments	64	'	'
Real Asset Investments	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure	'	'	'
Estimated minimum liquidation period	'1 year	'	'
Estimated maximum liquidation period	'15 years	'	'
Real Asset Investments | Minimum	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure	'	'	'
Estimated liquidation and redemption period	'30 days	'	'
Real Asset Investments | Maximum	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure	'	'	'
Estimated liquidation and redemption period	'10 years	'	'
U.S. Pension Benefits	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure	'	'	'
Fair value of plan assets	1,917	1,717	1,470
Reconciliation of Retirement Benefit Plan Assets Measured at Fair Value Using Significant Unobservable Inputs	'	'	'
Beginning balance	851	752	'
Total realized gains(losses) and other-than-temporary impairment losses included in earnings	23	8	'
Total unrealized gains (losses) included in other comprehensive income	86	62	'
Purchases and sales, net	-1	29	'
Ending balance	959	851	'
U.S. Pension Benefits | Level 1	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure	'	'	'
Fair value of plan assets	390	556	'
U.S. Pension Benefits | Level 2	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure	'	'	'
Fair value of plan assets	568	310	'
U.S. Pension Benefits | Level 3	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure	'	'	'
Fair value of plan assets	959	851	'
U.S. Pension Benefits | Short-term Investments	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure	'	'	'
Fair value of plan assets	157	195	'
U.S. Pension Benefits | Short-term Investments | Level 1	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure	'	'	'
Fair value of plan assets	157	195	'
U.S. Pension Benefits | Short-term Investments | Level 2	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure	'	'	'
Fair value of plan assets	0	0	'
U.S. Pension Benefits | Short-term Investments | Level 3	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure	'	'	'
Fair value of plan assets	0	0	'
U.S. Pension Benefits | U.S. Government Securities	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure	'	'	'
Fair value of plan assets	158	172	'
U.S. Pension Benefits | U.S. Government Securities | Level 1	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure	'	'	'
Fair value of plan assets	108	145	'
U.S. Pension Benefits | U.S. Government Securities | Level 2	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure	'	'	'
Fair value of plan assets	50	27	'
U.S. Pension Benefits | U.S. Government Securities | Level 3	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure	'	'	'
Fair value of plan assets	0	0	'
U.S. Pension Benefits | Corporate Debt Securities	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure	'	'	'
Fair value of plan assets	60	62	'
Reconciliation of Retirement Benefit Plan Assets Measured at Fair Value Using Significant Unobservable Inputs	'	'	'
Beginning balance	1	1	'
Total realized gains(losses) and other-than-temporary impairment losses included in earnings	0	0	'
Total unrealized gains (losses) included in other comprehensive income	0	0	'
Purchases and sales, net	0	0	'
Ending balance	1	1	'
U.S. Pension Benefits | Corporate Debt Securities | Level 1	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure	'	'	'
Fair value of plan assets	0	0	'
U.S. Pension Benefits | Corporate Debt Securities | Level 2	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure	'	'	'
Fair value of plan assets	59	61	'
U.S. Pension Benefits | Corporate Debt Securities | Level 3	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure	'	'	'
Fair value of plan assets	1	1	'
U.S. Pension Benefits | Common Stock	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure	'	'	'
Fair value of plan assets	125	216	'
U.S. Pension Benefits | Common Stock | Level 1	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure	'	'	'
Fair value of plan assets	125	216	'
U.S. Pension Benefits | Common Stock | Level 2	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure	'	'	'
Fair value of plan assets	0	0	'
U.S. Pension Benefits | Common Stock | Level 3	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure	'	'	'
Fair value of plan assets	0	0	'
U.S. Pension Benefits | Equity Mutual Funds/Commingled Trusts	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure	'	'	'
Fair value of plan assets	578	377	'
Reconciliation of Retirement Benefit Plan Assets Measured at Fair Value Using Significant Unobservable Inputs	'	'	'
Beginning balance	227	193	'
Total realized gains(losses) and other-than-temporary impairment losses included in earnings	0	0	'
Total unrealized gains (losses) included in other comprehensive income	58	34	'
Purchases and sales, net	0	0	'
Ending balance	285	227	'
U.S. Pension Benefits | Equity Mutual Funds/Commingled Trusts | Level 1	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure	'	'	'
Fair value of plan assets	0	0	'
U.S. Pension Benefits | Equity Mutual Funds/Commingled Trusts | Level 2	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure	'	'	'
Fair value of plan assets	293	150	'
U.S. Pension Benefits | Equity Mutual Funds/Commingled Trusts | Level 3	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure	'	'	'
Fair value of plan assets	285	227	'
U.S. Pension Benefits | Fixed Income Mutual Funds	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure	'	'	'
Fair value of plan assets	166	72	'
U.S. Pension Benefits | Fixed Income Mutual Funds | Level 1	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure	'	'	'
Fair value of plan assets	0	0	'
U.S. Pension Benefits | Fixed Income Mutual Funds | Level 2	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure	'	'	'
Fair value of plan assets	166	72	'
U.S. Pension Benefits | Fixed Income Mutual Funds | Level 3	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure	'	'	'
Fair value of plan assets	0	0	'
U.S. Pension Benefits | Partnership Units	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure	'	'	'
Fair value of plan assets	673	623	'
Reconciliation of Retirement Benefit Plan Assets Measured at Fair Value Using Significant Unobservable Inputs	'	'	'
Beginning balance	623	558	'
Total realized gains(losses) and other-than-temporary impairment losses included in earnings	23	8	'
Total unrealized gains (losses) included in other comprehensive income	28	28	'
Purchases and sales, net	-1	29	'
Ending balance	673	623	'
U.S. Pension Benefits | Partnership Units | Level 1	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure	'	'	'
Fair value of plan assets	0	0	'
U.S. Pension Benefits | Partnership Units | Level 2	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure	'	'	'
Fair value of plan assets	0	0	'
U.S. Pension Benefits | Partnership Units | Level 3	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure	'	'	'
Fair value of plan assets	673	623	'
Non-U.S. Pension Benefits	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure	'	'	'
Fair value of plan assets	889	733	638
Non-U.S. Pension Benefits | Level 1	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure	'	'	'
Fair value of plan assets	0	0	'
Non-U.S. Pension Benefits | Level 2	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure	'	'	'
Fair value of plan assets	868	715	'
Non-U.S. Pension Benefits | Level 3	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure	'	'	'
Fair value of plan assets	21	18	'
Reconciliation of Retirement Benefit Plan Assets Measured at Fair Value Using Significant Unobservable Inputs	'	'	'
Beginning balance	18	16	'
Total unrealized gains (losses) included in other comprehensive income	1	1	'
Purchases and sales, net	1	1	'
Ending balance	21	18	'
Foreign currency exchange	1	'	'
Non-U.S. Pension Benefits | Partnership Units	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure	'	'	'
Fair value of plan assets	10	8	'
Non-U.S. Pension Benefits | Partnership Units | Level 1	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure	'	'	'
Fair value of plan assets	0	0	'
Non-U.S. Pension Benefits | Partnership Units | Level 2	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure	'	'	'
Fair value of plan assets	0	0	'
Non-U.S. Pension Benefits | Partnership Units | Level 3	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure	'	'	'
Fair value of plan assets	10	8	'
Reconciliation of Retirement Benefit Plan Assets Measured at Fair Value Using Significant Unobservable Inputs	'	'	'
Beginning balance	8	7	'
Total unrealized gains (losses) included in other comprehensive income	1	1	'
Purchases and sales, net	1	0	'
Ending balance	10	8	'
Foreign currency exchange	0	'	'
Non-U.S. Pension Benefits | Registered Investment Companies	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure	'	'	'
Fair value of plan assets	868	715	'
Non-U.S. Pension Benefits | Registered Investment Companies | Level 1	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure	'	'	'
Fair value of plan assets	0	0	'
Non-U.S. Pension Benefits | Registered Investment Companies | Level 2	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure	'	'	'
Fair value of plan assets	868	715	'
Non-U.S. Pension Benefits | Registered Investment Companies | Level 3	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure	'	'	'
Fair value of plan assets	0	0	'
Non-U.S. Pension Benefits | Insurance Contracts	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure	'	'	'
Fair value of plan assets	11	10	'
Non-U.S. Pension Benefits | Insurance Contracts | Level 1	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure	'	'	'
Fair value of plan assets	0	0	'
Non-U.S. Pension Benefits | Insurance Contracts | Level 2	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure	'	'	'
Fair value of plan assets	0	0	'
Non-U.S. Pension Benefits | Insurance Contracts | Level 3	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure	'	'	'
Fair value of plan assets	11	10	'
Reconciliation of Retirement Benefit Plan Assets Measured at Fair Value Using Significant Unobservable Inputs	'	'	'
Beginning balance	10	9	'
Total unrealized gains (losses) included in other comprehensive income	0	0	'
Purchases and sales, net	0	1	'
Ending balance	11	10	'
Foreign currency exchange	1	'	'
Post-Retirement Benefits	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure	'	'	'
Fair value of plan assets	267	233	204
Reconciliation of Retirement Benefit Plan Assets Measured at Fair Value Using Significant Unobservable Inputs	'	'	'
Beginning balance	120	108	'
Total realized gains(losses) and other-than-temporary impairment losses included in earnings	4	5	'
Total unrealized gains (losses) included in other comprehensive income	13	4	'
Purchases and sales, net	1	3	'
Ending balance	138	120	'
Other items to reconcile to fair value of plan assts	-9	-10	'
Post-Retirement Benefits | Short-term Investments	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure	'	'	'
Fair value of plan assets	22	28	'
Post-Retirement Benefits | Short-term Investments | Level 1	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure	'	'	'
Fair value of plan assets	22	28	'
Post-Retirement Benefits | Short-term Investments | Level 2	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure	'	'	'
Fair value of plan assets	0	0	'
Post-Retirement Benefits | Short-term Investments | Level 3	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure	'	'	'
Fair value of plan assets	0	0	'
Post-Retirement Benefits | U.S. Government Securities	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure	'	'	'
Fair value of plan assets	23	24	'
Post-Retirement Benefits | U.S. Government Securities | Level 1	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure	'	'	'
Fair value of plan assets	16	20	'
Post-Retirement Benefits | U.S. Government Securities | Level 2	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure	'	'	'
Fair value of plan assets	7	4	'
Post-Retirement Benefits | U.S. Government Securities | Level 3	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure	'	'	'
Fair value of plan assets	0	0	'
Post-Retirement Benefits | Corporate Debt Securities	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure	'	'	'
Fair value of plan assets	9	9	'
Post-Retirement Benefits | Corporate Debt Securities | Level 1	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure	'	'	'
Fair value of plan assets	0	0	'
Post-Retirement Benefits | Corporate Debt Securities | Level 2	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure	'	'	'
Fair value of plan assets	9	9	'
Post-Retirement Benefits | Corporate Debt Securities | Level 3	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure	'	'	'
Fair value of plan assets	0	0	'
Post-Retirement Benefits | Common Stock	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure	'	'	'
Fair value of plan assets	18	31	'
Post-Retirement Benefits | Common Stock | Level 1	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure	'	'	'
Fair value of plan assets	18	31	'
Post-Retirement Benefits | Common Stock | Level 2	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure	'	'	'
Fair value of plan assets	0	0	'
Post-Retirement Benefits | Common Stock | Level 3	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure	'	'	'
Fair value of plan assets	0	0	'
Post-Retirement Benefits | Equity Mutual Funds/Commingled Trusts	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure	'	'	'
Fair value of plan assets	83	53	'
Reconciliation of Retirement Benefit Plan Assets Measured at Fair Value Using Significant Unobservable Inputs	'	'	'
Beginning balance	32	28	'
Total realized gains(losses) and other-than-temporary impairment losses included in earnings	0	4	'
Total unrealized gains (losses) included in other comprehensive income	9	0	'
Purchases and sales, net	0	0	'
Ending balance	41	32	'
Post-Retirement Benefits | Equity Mutual Funds/Commingled Trusts | Level 1	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure	'	'	'
Fair value of plan assets	0	0	'
Post-Retirement Benefits | Equity Mutual Funds/Commingled Trusts | Level 2	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure	'	'	'
Fair value of plan assets	42	21	'
Post-Retirement Benefits | Equity Mutual Funds/Commingled Trusts | Level 3	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure	'	'	'
Fair value of plan assets	41	32	'
Post-Retirement Benefits | Fixed Income Mutual Funds	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure	'	'	'
Fair value of plan assets	24	10	'
Post-Retirement Benefits | Fixed Income Mutual Funds | Level 1	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure	'	'	'
Fair value of plan assets	0	0	'
Post-Retirement Benefits | Fixed Income Mutual Funds | Level 2	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure	'	'	'
Fair value of plan assets	24	10	'
Post-Retirement Benefits | Fixed Income Mutual Funds | Level 3	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure	'	'	'
Fair value of plan assets	0	0	'
Post-Retirement Benefits | Partnership Units	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure	'	'	'
Fair value of plan assets	97	88	'
Reconciliation of Retirement Benefit Plan Assets Measured at Fair Value Using Significant Unobservable Inputs	'	'	'
Beginning balance	88	80	'
Total realized gains(losses) and other-than-temporary impairment losses included in earnings	4	1	'
Total unrealized gains (losses) included in other comprehensive income	4	4	'
Purchases and sales, net	1	3	'
Ending balance	97	88	'
Post-Retirement Benefits | Partnership Units | Level 1	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure	'	'	'
Fair value of plan assets	0	0	'
Post-Retirement Benefits | Partnership Units | Level 2	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure	'	'	'
Fair value of plan assets	0	0	'
Post-Retirement Benefits | Partnership Units | Level 3	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure	'	'	'
Fair value of plan assets	97	88	'
Post-Retirement Benefits | Fair Value of Plan Assets before Reconciling Items	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure	'	'	'
Fair value of plan assets	276	243	'
Post-Retirement Benefits | Fair Value of Plan Assets before Reconciling Items | Level 1	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure	'	'	'
Fair value of plan assets	56	79	'
Post-Retirement Benefits | Fair Value of Plan Assets before Reconciling Items | Level 2	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure	'	'	'
Fair value of plan assets	82	44	'
Post-Retirement Benefits | Fair Value of Plan Assets before Reconciling Items | Level 3	'	'	'
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure	'	'	'
Fair value of plan assets	$138	$120	'

Retirement_Benefit_Plans_Fundi

Retirement Benefit Plans, Funding and Effect of 1% Change in Assumed Health Care Cost Trend Rates (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Apr. 25, 2014
Estimated Medicare Part D Receipts	'
2015	$0
2016	0
2017	0
2018	0
2019	0
2020 - 2024	0
Total	0
Effect of One-Percentage Point Change in Assumed Health Care Cost Trend Rates	'
Effect on post-retirement benefit cost, 1% point increase	1
Effect on post-retirement benefit obligation, 1% point increase	11
Effect on post-retirement benefit cost, 1% point decrease	-1
Effect on post-retirement benefit obligation, 1% point decrease	-9
U.S. Pension Benefits	'
Estimated Future Benefit Payments	'
2015	59
2016	69
2017	78
2018	88
2019	98
2020 - 2024	659
Total	1,051
Non-U.S. Pension Benefits	'
Estimated Future Benefit Payments	'
2015	36
2016	30
2017	31
2018	33
2019	32
2020 - 2024	187
Total	349
Post-Retirement Benefits	'
Estimated Future Benefit Payments	'
2015	12
2016	14
2017	16
2018	18
2019	20
2020 - 2024	137
Total	$217

Leases_Detail

Leases (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Apr. 25, 2014	Apr. 26, 2013	Apr. 27, 2012
Capitalized Leases	'	'	'
2015	$18	'	'
2016	17	'	'
2017	34	'	'
2018	22	'	'
2019	22	'	'
Thereafter	64	'	'
Total minimum lease payments	177	'	'
Less amounts representing interest	-24	'	'
Present value of net minimum lease payments	153	'	'
Operating Leases	'	'	'
2015	112	'	'
2016	77	'	'
2017	45	'	'
2018	21	'	'
2019	13	'	'
Thereafter	23	'	'
Total minimum lease payments	291	'	'
Rent expense for operating leases	150	140	153
Sale Leaseback Transaction, Gross Proceeds	$165	'	'
Term of Lease	'10 years	'	'
Monthly payments due years 1-5	'5 years	'	'
Annual payments due years 6-10	'5 years	'	'

Discontinued_Operations_Detail

Discontinued Operations (Detail) (USD $)	6 Months Ended	12 Months Ended			3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Oct. 28, 2011	Apr. 25, 2014	Apr. 26, 2013	Apr. 27, 2012	Jan. 30, 2012	Apr. 27, 2012
					Physio-Control	Physio-Control
Discontinued Operations	'	'	'	'	'	'
Net assets	'	'	'	'	$164	'
Proceeds from divestiture of Physio-Control	'	0	0	386	386	'
Summary of Operating Results from Discontinued Operations before Tax	'	'	'	'	'	'
Net sales	'	'	'	'	'	323
Earnings from operations of Physio-Control	'	'	'	'	'	48
Physio-Control divestiture-related costs	'	'	'	'	'	-42
Gain on sale of Physio-Control	'	0	0	218	'	218
Income tax expense	'	'	'	'	'	-22
Earnings from discontinued operations	'	0	0	202	'	202
Reclassification of divestiture related costs from continuing operations to discontinued operations	$12	'	'	'	'	'

Quarterly_Financial_Data_Detai

Quarterly Financial Data (Detail) (USD $)	3 Months Ended									12 Months Ended
In Millions, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Jul. 25, 2014	Apr. 25, 2014	Jan. 24, 2014	Oct. 25, 2013	Jul. 26, 2013	Apr. 26, 2013	Jan. 25, 2013	Oct. 26, 2012	Jul. 27, 2012	Apr. 25, 2014	Apr. 26, 2013	Apr. 27, 2012
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Net Sales	$4,273	$4,566	$4,163	$4,194	$4,083	$4,459	$4,027	$4,095	$4,008	$17,005	$16,590	$16,184
Gross Profit	'	3,395	3,113	3,104	3,061	3,325	3,028	3,075	3,035	12,672	12,464	'
Net earnings	$871	$448	$762	$902	$953	$969	$988	$646	$864	$3,065	$3,467	$3,617
Basic Earnings per	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Net earnings (per share)	$0.88	$0.45	$0.76	$0.90	$0.94	$0.96	$0.98	$0.63	$0.84	$3.06	$3.40	$3.43
Diluted Earnings per	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Net earnings (per share)	$0.87	$0.44	$0.75	$0.89	$0.93	$0.95	$0.97	$0.63	$0.83	$3.02	$3.37	$3.41

Subsequent_Events_Update_Unaud

Subsequent Events Update (Unaudited) (Detail) (USD $)

Jul. 25, 2014

Oct. 03, 2014

Jul. 25, 2014

Apr. 25, 2014

Nov. 07, 2014

Jul. 25, 2014

Nov. 07, 2014

Jul. 25, 2014

Nov. 07, 2014

Jun. 15, 2014

Jul. 25, 2014

Nov. 07, 2014

Jul. 25, 2014

Nov. 07, 2014

Jul. 25, 2014

Covidien PLC

Subsequent Event

Line Of Credit Facility 2017

Line Of Credit Facility 2017

Amended and Restated Revolving Credit Facility

Parent Company

Parent Company

Parent Company

Parent Company

Parent Company

Parent Company

Parent Company

IrSub

IrSub

IrSub

Covidien PLC

Credit Facility

Credit Facility

Subsequent Event

Term Loan Credit Agreement [Member]

Term Loan Credit Agreement [Member]

Bridge Loan

Bridge Loan

Bridge Loan

Bridge Loan

Bridge Loan

Bridge Loan

Bridge Loan

Bridge Loan

Credit Facility

Subsequent Event

Subsequent Event

Senior Unsecured Bridge Credit Agreement

Senior Unsecured Bridge Credit Agreement

Senior Unsecured Bridge Credit Agreement

Senior Unsecured Bridge Credit Agreement

Senior Unsecured Bridge Credit Agreement

Senior Unsecured Cash Bridge Credit Agreement

Senior Unsecured Cash Bridge Credit Agreement

Senior Unsecured Cash Bridge Credit Agreement

Subsequent Event

Subsequent Event

Subsequent Event

Subsequent Event

Subsequent Event

Subsequent Event

Subsequent Event [Line Items]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Cash required to finance the cash component of transaction

$13,200,000,000

$16,300,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Maximum credit available

'

'

2,250,000,000

2,250,000,000

3,500,000,000

'

5,000,000,000

'

'

2,800,000,000

'

11,300,000,000

'

'

'

Debt term

'

'

'5 years

'

'

'3 years

'

'364 days

'

'364 days

'364 days

'

'60 days

'

'60 days

Terminated loan

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

$2,800,000,000

'

'

'

'

$13,500,000,000

'

Schedule_II_Detail

Schedule II (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Apr. 25, 2014		Apr. 26, 2013		Apr. 27, 2012
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts	'		'		'
Movement in Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Roll Forward]	'		'		'
Balance at Beginning of Fiscal Year	$98	[1]	$100	[1]	$97	[1]
Charged to Earnings	43	[1]	51	[1]	66	[1]
Charges to Other Accounts	0	[1]	0	[1]	0	[1]
Other Changes (Debit) Credit	-30	[1],[2]	-53	[1],[2]	-55	[1],[2]
Effects of Foreign Currency	4	[1],[3]	0	[1],[3]	-8	[1],[3]
Balance at End of Fiscal Year	115	[1]	98	[1]	100	[1]
Deferred Tax Valuation Allowance	'		'		'
Movement in Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Roll Forward]	'		'		'
Balance at Beginning of Fiscal Year	313	[1]	258	[1]	286	[1]
Charged to Earnings	104	[1]	71	[1]	49	[1]
Charges to Other Accounts	5	[1]	0	[1]	0	[1]
Other Changes (Debit) Credit	-29	[1],[4]	-15	[1],[4]	-77	[1],[4]
Effects of Foreign Currency	4	[1],[3]	-1	[1],[3]	0	[1],[3]
Balance at End of Fiscal Year	$397	[1]	$313	[1]	$258	[1]
[1]	For the fiscal year ended April 27, 2012, amounts include the results from both continuing operations and discontinued operations.
[2]	Uncollectible accounts written off, less recoveries.
[3]	Reflects primarily the effects of foreign currency fluctuations.
[4]	Decrease in deferred tax valuation allowance due to carryover attribute utilization and expiration.