Stryker (SYK) 10-Q 23 Oct 14 2014 Q3 Quarterly report Financial data

Document_and_Entity_Informatio

Document and Entity Information	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014
Document and Entity Information	'
Document Type	'10-Q
Amendment Flag	'false
Document Period End Date	30-Sep-14
Document Fiscal Year Focus	'2014
Document Fiscal Period Focus	'Q3
Trading Symbol	'SYK
Entity Registrant Name	'STRYKER CORP
Entity Central Index Key	'0000310764
Current Fiscal Year End Date	'--12-31
Entity Filer Category	'Large Accelerated Filer
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding	378,320,513

Consolidated_Statements_Of_Ear

Consolidated Statements Of Earnings (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Millions, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013
Net sales	$2,389	$2,151	$7,057	$6,553
Cost of sales	822	682	2,399	2,125
Gross profit	1,567	1,469	4,658	4,428
Research, development and engineering expenses	153	136	461	397
Selling, general and administrative expenses	910	1,136	3,263	3,067
Intangible asset amortization	50	34	142	102
Restructuring charges	4	13	14	36
Total operating expenses	1,117	1,319	3,880	3,602
Operating income	450	150	778	826
Other income (expense), net	-25	-13	-79	-45
Earnings before income taxes	425	137	699	781
Income taxes	368	34	444	161
Net earnings	$57	$103	$255	$620
Net earnings per share of common stock:	'	'	'	'
Basic net earnings per share of common stock	$0.16	$0.27	$0.68	$1.64
Diluted net earnings per share of common stock	$0.16	$0.27	$0.67	$1.62
Weighted-average shares outstanding—in millions:	'	'	'	'
Basic	378.4	378.3	378.5	378.7
Net effect of dilutive employee stock options	4.1	3.4	4.2	3.1
Diluted	382.5	381.7	382.7	381.8
Anti-dilutive shares excluded from the calculation of net effect of dilutive employee stock options	0	0	'	1.9

Consolidated_Statement_of_Comp

Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013
Net earnings	$57	$103	$255	$620
Marketable Securities	-3	3	4	-3
Pension Plans	5	-3	5	-1
Hedges	5	0	-7	0
Financial Statement Translation	-312	115	-308	21
Total other comprehensive income (loss)	-305	115	-306	17
Comprehensive income	($248)	$218	($51)	$637

Consolidated_Balance_Sheets

Consolidated Balance Sheets (USD $)	Sep. 30, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Current assets	'	'
Cash and cash equivalents	$1,356	$1,339
Marketable securities	3,321	2,641
Accounts receivable, less allowance of $66 ($72 in 2013)	1,529	1,518
Inventories	'	'
Materials and supplies	257	227
Work in process	106	85
Finished goods	1,303	1,110
Total inventories	1,666	1,422
Deferred income taxes	987	880
Prepaid expenses and other current assets	467	535
Total current assets	9,326	8,335
Property, plant and equipment	'	'
Land, buildings and improvements	676	686
Machinery and equipment	1,926	1,811
Total property, plant and equipment	2,602	2,497
Less allowance for depreciation	1,498	1,416
Net property, plant and equipment	1,104	1,081
Other assets	'	'
Goodwill	4,257	3,844
Other intangibles, net	2,108	1,989
Other	720	494
Total assets	17,515	15,743
Current liabilities	'	'
Accounts payable	335	314
Accrued compensation	485	535
Income taxes	374	131
Dividend payable	115	115
Accrued recall expenses	1,339	772
Accrued expenses and other liabilities	832	765
Current maturities of debt	731	25
Total current liabilities	4,211	2,657
Long-term debt, excluding current maturities	3,231	2,739
Other liabilities	1,449	1,300
Shareholders' equity	'	'
Common stock, $0.10 par value:	38	38
Additional paid-in capital	1,230	1,160
Retained earnings	7,430	7,617
Accumulated other comprehensive income	-74	232
Total shareholders' equity	8,624	9,047
Total liabilities & shareholders' equity	$17,515	$15,743

Consolidated_Balance_Sheets_Pa

Consolidated Balance Sheets (Parentheticals) (USD $)	Sep. 30, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Millions, except Share data, unless otherwise specified
Accounts receivable, allowance	$66	$72
Common stock, par value	$0.10	$0.10
Common stock, authorized	1,000	1,000
Common stock, outstanding	378	378

Consolidated_Statement_Of_Shar

Consolidated Statement Of Shareholders' Equity (USD $)	Total	Common Stock	Additional Paid-In Capital	Retained Earnings	Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income
In Millions
Balances at December 31, 2013 at Dec. 31, 2013	$9,047	$38	$1,160	$7,617	$232
Net earnings	255	'	'	255	'
Other comprehensive loss	-306	'	'	'	-306
Issuance of 1.8 million shares of common stock under stock option and benefit plans, including $6 excess income tax benefit	16	'	16	'	'
Repurchase and retirement of 1.3 million shares of common stock	-100	'	-4	-96	'
Share-based compensation	58	'	58	'	'
Cash dividends declared of $0.915 per share of common stock	-346	'	'	-346	'
Balances at September 30, 2014 at Sep. 30, 2014	$8,624	$38	$1,230	$7,430	($74)

Consolidated_Statement_Of_Shar1

Consolidated Statement Of Shareholders' Equity (Parenthetical) (USD $)	9 Months Ended
In Millions, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2014
Issuance of common stock under stock option and benefit plans, shares	1.8
Issuance of common stock under stock option and benefit plans, excess income tax benefit	$6
Repurchase and retirement of common stock, shares	1.3
Cash dividends declared, per share of common stock	$0.92

Consolidated_Statements_Of_Cas

Consolidated Statements Of Cash Flows (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013
Operating activities	'	'	'	'
Net earnings	$57	$103	$255	$620
Adjustments to reconcile net earnings to net cash provided by operating activities:	'	'	'	'
Depreciation	47	42	140	123
Amortization of intangible assets	50	34	142	102
Share-based compensation	17	19	58	57
Restructuring charges	4	14	14	38
Sale of inventory stepped up to fair value at acquisition	10	8	24	16
Recall accruals	29	313	649	523
Changes in operating assets and liabilities, net of effects of acquisitions:	'	'	'	'
Accounts receivable	-65	57	-12	46
Inventories	-97	-43	-217	-106
Accounts payable	4	-1	15	-31
Accrued expenses and other liabilities	179	68	37	15
Income taxes	306	34	169	-116
Other	-6	-26	-167	-73
Net cash provided by operating activities	535	622	1,107	1,214
Investing activities	'	'	'	'
Acquisitions, net of cash acquired	-368	-24	-825	-686
Purchases of marketable securities	-1,038	-1,160	-3,635	-3,777
Proceeds from sales of marketable securities	1,030	859	2,842	2,676
Purchases of property, plant and equipment	-48	-43	-172	-139
Net cash used in investing activities	-424	-368	-1,790	-1,926
Financing activities	'	'	'	'
Proceeds from borrowings	395	110	2,208	1,272
Payments on borrowings	-293	-107	-1,013	-258
Dividends paid	-115	-100	-346	-301
Repurchase and retirement of common stock	-40	-2	-100	-252
Other	-14	-6	-42	-8
Net cash (used in) provided by financing activities	-67	-105	707	453
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents	-7	-10	-7	-26
Change in cash and cash equivalents	$37	$139	$17	($285)

Basis_Of_Presentation

Basis Of Presentation	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]	'
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements Disclosure [Text Block]	'
	BASIS OF PRESENTATION
	General Information
	These statements should be read in conjunction with our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2013. Management believes that the accompanying unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements include all adjustments, including normal recurring items, considered necessary for a fair presentation of the interim periods. However, the results of operations included in such financial statements may not necessarily be indicative of annual results. Certain prior year amounts in our Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows and our Segment Information in Note 11 have been reclassified to conform with the presentation used in 2014.
	Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements
	No new accounting pronouncement issued or effective during the year had, or is expected to have, a material impact on the Consolidated Financial Statements.

Fair_Value_Measurements_Fair_V

Fair Value Measurements Fair Value Measurements (Notes)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]	'
Fair Value Disclosures [Text Block]	'
	FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS
	Assets and liabilities measured at fair value:	Total						Level 1					Level 2						Level 3
		September			December			September		December			September			December			September			December
		2014			2013			2014		2013			2014			2013			2014			2013
	Cash and cash equivalents	$	1,356		$	1,339		$	1,356	$	1,339		$	—		$	—		$	—		$	—
	Available-for-sale marketable securities
	Corporate and asset-backed debt securities	1,614			1,177			—		—			1,614			1,177			—			—
	Foreign government debt securities	828			845			—		—			828			845			—			—
	United States agency debt securities	361			211			—		—			361			211			—			—
	United States treasury debt securities	408			350			—		—			408			350			—			—
	Certificates of deposit	103			53			—		—			103			53			—			—
	Other	7			5			—		—			7			5			—			—
	Total available-for-sale marketable securities	3,321			2,641			—		—			3,321			2,641			—			—
	Trading marketable securities	77			72			77		72			—			—			—			—
	Foreign currency exchange forward contracts	21			25			—		—			21			25			—			—
		$	4,775		$	4,077		$	1,433	$	1,411		$	3,342		$	2,666		$	—		$	—
	Liabilities:
	Deferred compensation arrangements	$	77		$	72		$	77	$	72		$	—		$	—		$	—		$	—
	Contingent consideration
	Beginning Balance																		59			103
	Losses included in earnings																		—			(5		)
	Settlements																		(14		)	(39		)
	Balance at the end of the period	45			59			—		—			—			—			45			59
	Interest rate swap	6			—			—		—			6			—			—			—
	Foreign currency exchange forward contracts	23			2			—		—			23			2			—			—
		$	151		$	133		$	77	$	72		$	29		$	2		$	45		$	59
	Summary of marketable securities:	Amortized Cost						Gross Unrealized Gains					Gross Unrealized Losses						Estimated Fair Value
		September			December			September		December			September			December			September			December
		2014			2013			2014		2013			2014			2013			2014			2013
	Available-for-sale marketable securities:
	Corporate and asset-backed debt securities	$	1,611		$	1,177		$	4	$	1		$	(1	)	$	(1	)	$	1,614		$	1,177
	Foreign government debt securities	826			846			2		—			—			(1		)	828			845
	United States agency debt securities	361			211			—		—			—			—			361			211
	United States treasury debt securities	408			350			—		—			—			—			408			350
	Certificates of deposit	103			53			—		—			—			—			103			53
	Other	7			5			—		—			—			—			7			5
	Total available-for-sale marketable securities	$	3,316		$	2,642		$	6	$	1		$	(1	)	$	(2	)	3,321			2,641
	Trading marketable securities																		77			72
	Total marketable securities																		$	3,398		$	2,713
	Reported as:
	Current assets-marketable securities																		$	3,321		$	2,641
	Noncurrent assets-other																		77			72
	Available-for-sale marketable securities by contractual maturity:
	Due in one year or less	$	532		$	425						$	532		$	424
	Due after one year through three years	2,468			1,989							2,473			1,989
	Due after three years	316			228							316			228
	We calculate the fair value of our Level 1 and Level 2 instruments based on the exchange traded price of similar or identical instruments, where available, or based on other observable inputs taking into account our credit risk and that of our counterparties. Foreign currency exchange contracts and interest rate swaps are included in Level 2 as we use 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. The fair value of our Level 3 liabilities represents milestone payments for acquisitions and is calculated as the net present value of expected cash flows using a discounted cash flow technique based on externally provided or obtained inputs, including our probability assessments of the occurrence of triggering events, appropriately discounted considering the uncertainties associated with the obligation. We remeasure this liability each reporting period and record the changes in fair value from changes in probability of occurrence in general and administrative expense and the changes in time value of money in other income (expense). During the period we evaluated but did not change our unobservable input assumptions and fair value techniques used in measuring the fair value of any financial assets or liabilities from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2013.
	There were no significant transfers into or out of any level between December 31, 2013 and September 30, 2014.
	The unrealized losses on available-for-sale marketable securities at September 30, 2014 were primarily caused by increases in yields as a result of the rise in government benchmark rates. Less than 1% of our investments in available-for-sale securities had a credit quality rating of less than A2 (Moody's), A (Standard & Poors) and A (Fitch). We do not intend to sell the investments and it is not more likely than not that we will be required to sell the investments before recovery of their amortized cost basis, which may be maturity; accordingly, we do not consider these investments to be other-than-temporarily impaired at September 30, 2014.
	The gross unrealized losses and fair value of our investments with unrealized losses that are not deemed to be other-than-temporarily impaired, aggregated by investment category and length of time that the individual securities have been in a continuous unrealized loss position at September 30, 2014 are:
		Number of Investments	Fair Value			Unrealized Losses
	Less than 12 months
	Corporate and Asset-Backed	225	$	397		$	1
	Foreign Government	45	100			—
	United States Agency	37	178			—
	Other	86	312			—
		393	$	987		$	1
	Total
	Corporate and Asset-Backed	233	$	397		$	1
	Foreign Government	52	194			—
	United States Agency	37	178			—
	Other	87	312			—
		409	$	1,081		$	1
Upon the sale of a security classified as available-for-sale, the security’s specific unrealized gain (loss) is reclassified out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (AOCI) into earnings based on the specific identification method.
The total of interest and marketable securities income was $10 and $7 for the three months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013, respectively, and $21 and $18 for the nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013, respectively, and is included in other income (expense).

Derivative_Instruments_And_Hed

Derivative Instruments And Hedging Strategies Derivative Instruments and Hedging Strategies (Notes)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014
Derivative [Line Items]	'
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Text Block]	'
	DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS
	We use operational and economic hedges as well as foreign currency exchange forward contracts and interest rate derivative instruments to manage the impact of currency exchange on earnings and cash flow.
	Cash Flow Hedges
	During the period we did not change our hedging strategies or objectives from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2013. The gross notional, maximum term and gross fair value amounts of foreign exchange forward contract derivatives designated and non-designated as hedging instruments are:
		Designated				Non-Designated				Total
	September 30, 2014
	Gross Notional Amount	$	219			$	3,155			$	3,374
	Maximum term in days									546
	Fair Value
	Other Current Assets	$	6			$	14			$	20
	Other Assets - Noncurrent	1				—				1
	Other Current Liabilities	1				22				23
		$	6			$	(8	)		$	(2	)
	December 31, 2013
	Gross Notional Amount	$	344			$	2,000			$	2,344
	Maximum term in days									546
	Fair Value
	Other Current Assets	$	11			$	10			$	21
	Other Assets - Noncurrent	1				3				4
	Other Current Liabilities	1				1				2
		$	11			$	12			$	23
	We are exposed to credit loss in the event of nonperformance by counterparties on our outstanding forward currency exchange contracts but do not anticipate nonperformance by any of our counterparties. Should a counterparty default, our maximum exposure to loss is the asset balance of the instrument.
	The net currency exchange rate gains (losses) for both designated and non-designated derivative instruments were:
		Three Months							Nine Months
	Recorded in:	2014			2013				2014			2013
	Cost of goods sold	$	(1	)	$	—			$	4		$	—
	Other income (expense)	(2		)	—				(11		)	(3		)
	Total	$	(3	)	$	—			$	(7	)	$	(3	)
	At September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, pretax gains on derivatives designated as hedges of $2 and $12, which are recorded in AOCI, are expected to be reclassified to earnings during the next twelve months. This reclassification is primarily due to the sale of inventory that includes previously hedged purchases. There have been no ineffective portions of derivatives that have resulted in gains or losses in any period.
	Fair Value Hedges
	Interest rate derivative instruments designated as fair value hedges are being used 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.
	As of  September 30, 2014, we had interest rate swaps in gross notional amounts of $500 designated as fair value hedges of underlying fixed rate obligations representing a portion of our $600 senior unsecured notes due in 2024.  The market value of outstanding interest rate swap agreements at September 30, 2014 was a realized loss of $6 which is recorded in other long-term liabilities with an offsetting realized gain of  $6 on the fair value of the underlying fixed rate obligation recorded in long-term debt in the consolidated balance sheet. No hedge ineffectiveness was recorded as a result of these fair value hedges for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014.

Contingencies

Contingencies	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Contingencies	'
	We are involved in various ongoing proceedings, legal actions and claims arising in the normal course of business, including proceedings related to product, labor, intellectual property, and other matters. The outcomes of these matters will generally not be known for prolonged periods of time. In certain of the legal proceedings, the claimants seek damages, as well as other compensatory and equitable relief, that could result in the payment of significant claims and settlements and/or the imposition of injunctions or other equitable relief. For legal matters for which management has sufficient information to reasonably estimate our future obligations, a liability representing management's best estimate of the probable loss, or the minimum of the range of probable losses when a best estimate within the range is not known, for the resolution of these legal matters is recorded. The estimates are based on consultation with legal counsel, previous settlement experience and settlement strategies. If actual outcomes are less favorable than those projected by management, additional expense may be incurred, which could unfavorably affect our future financial position, results of operations and cash flows. We are currently self-insured for product liability-related claims and expenses. The ultimate cost to us with respect to product liability claims could be materially different than the amount of the current estimates and accruals and could have a material adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations and cash flows.
	In 2010 we received a subpoena from the United States Department of Justice (DOJ) related to the sales and marketing of the OtisKnee device.  The subpoena concerns allegations of violations of federal laws related to sales of a device not cleared by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA).  We continue to discuss the settlement of this matter with the DOJ, but there can be no assurance that we will reach a consensual resolution rather than seeking a resolution through the courts. We have recorded charges totaling $80 related to this matter.
	In June 2012 we voluntarily recalled our Rejuvenate and ABG II modular-neck hip stems and terminated global distribution of these hip products. We notified healthcare professionals and regulatory bodies of this recall, which was taken due to potential risks associated with fretting and/or corrosion that may lead to adverse local tissue reactions. Product liability lawsuits relating to this voluntary recall have been filed against us. As previously announced, we intend to reimburse implanted patients for reasonable and customary costs of testing and treatment services, including any necessary revision surgeries. We continue to work with the medical community to evaluate the data and further understand this matter. The ultimate total cost with respect to this matter will depend on many factors that are difficult to predict and may vary materially based on the number of and actual costs of patients seeking testing and treatment services, the number of and actual costs of patients requiring revision surgeries, the number of and actual costs to settle lawsuits filed against us, and the amount of third-party insurance recoveries.  Based on the information that has been received, the actuarially determined range of probable loss to resolve this matter is estimated to be approximately $1,425 to $2,290 before third-party insurance recoveries that may potentially be recorded.  In the three months ended September 30, 2014, we recorded charges to earnings of $25 representing the excess of the $1,425 minimum of the range over the previously recorded reserves. No contingent gain for third-party insurance recoveries was recorded as of September 30, 2014. As noted above, the final outcome of this matter is dependent on many variables that are difficult to predict.  The ultimate cost to entirely resolve this matter may be materially different than the amount of the current estimate and accruals and could have a material adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations and cash flows.
	In 2010 we filed a lawsuit in federal court against Zimmer Holdings, Inc. (Zimmer), alleging that a Zimmer product infringed three of our patents. In rulings issued in August and September 2013, the trial judge upheld the February 2013 jury verdict in our favor, issued a permanent injunction barring Zimmer from making or selling infringing products, and ordered Zimmer to pay us at least $228. Zimmer is appealing this ruling and the ultimate resolution of this matter may differ materially. Accordingly, we have not recorded a contingent gain related to this matter.
	For each of the following legal matters the final outcome is dependent on many variables and cannot be predicted. Accordingly, it is not possible at this time for us to estimate any material loss or range of losses. However, the ultimate cost to resolve these matters could have a material adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations and cash flows.
	In April 2011 lawsuits brought by Hill-Rom Company, Inc. and affiliated entities (Hill-Rom) against us were filed in the United States District Court for the Western District of Wisconsin and the United States District Court for the Southern District of Indiana alleging infringement under United States patent laws with respect to certain patient handling equipment we manufactured and sold and seek damages and permanent injunctions.  The Wisconsin lawsuit was subsequently transferred to the United States District Court in Indiana and we have entered into an agreement settling that lawsuit on terms as previously disclosed. The second lawsuit involves nine patents related to electrical network communications for hospital beds. The case has been stayed with respect to six of the patents that are currently under reexamination by the United States Patent Office. With respect to the three remaining patents, all of which have now expired, the Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit reversed the trial court's grant of summary judgment in our favor and remanded the matter to the trial court for further proceedings. With respect to the three remaining patents, all of which have now expired, the Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit reversed the trial court's grant of summary judgment in our favor and remanded the matter to the trial court for further proceedings. We filed a request with the United States Supreme Court asking that it vacate the Federal Court's decision. The district court has administratively closed the case until the Supreme Court resolves this request. The ultimate resolution of the entire second suit may have no relation to the resolution of the first suit and cannot be predicted; however, the result could have a material adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations and cash flows.
	In 2010 we received a subpoena from the DOJ related to sales and marketing and regulatory matters related to the Stryker PainPump. We have received requests for certain documents in connection with this investigation. The investigation is ongoing and we are fully cooperating with the DOJ regarding this matter.

Acquisitions

Acquisitions	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014
Business Combinations [Abstract]	'
Business Combination Disclosure [Text Block]	'
	ACQUISITIONS
	During the quarter we completed our acquisition of assets of Small Bone Innovations, Inc. (SBi) for an aggregate purchase price of approximately $358. SBi products are designed and promoted for upper and lower extremity small bone indications, with a focus on small joint replacement. The acquisition of the assets of SBi enhances our product offerings within our Reconstructive segment. Intangible assets acquired with SBi will be amortized over a weighted-average life of 12 years.
	In April 2014 we completed the acquisition of Berchtold Holding, AG (Berchtold) for an aggregate purchase price of approximately $172, net of cash acquired. Berchtold, a privately held business with operating facilities in Germany and the United States, sells surgical infrastructure equipment including surgical tables, equipment booms and surgical lighting systems. The acquisition of Berchtold enhances our product offerings within our MedSurg segment. Intangible assets acquired with Berchtold will be amortized over a weighted-average life of 8 years.
	In March 2014 we completed our acquisition of Patient Safety Technologies, Inc. (PST) for an aggregate purchase price of $120. PST conducts its business through its wholly owned subsidiary, SurgiCount Medical, Inc. PST’s proprietary Safety-Sponge® System and SurgiCount 360™ compliance software help prevent Retained Foreign Objects in the operating room. The acquisition of PST enhances our product offerings within our MedSurg segment. Intangible assets acquired with PST will be amortized over a weighted-average life of 14 years.
	The acquired net assets of other business acquisitions completed in 2014, including the previously announced acquisition of Pivot Medical, Inc., are in the "Other" column in the table below.
	In December 2013 we acquired MAKO Surgical Corp. (MAKO) for an aggregate purchase price of $1,679. The acquisition of MAKO, combined with our strong history in joint reconstruction, capital equipment (operating room integration and surgical navigation) and surgical instruments, will help further advance the growth of robotic arm assisted surgery. Our combined expertise offers the potential to simplify joint reconstruction procedures, reduce variability and enhance the surgeon and patient experience. The acquisition of MAKO enhances our product offerings within our Reconstructive segment. Intangible assets acquired with MAKO will be amortized over a weighted-average life of 9 years, except for the trade name that is deemed to have an indefinite life. In-process research and development (IPRD) is considered to be an indefinite-lived intangible asset until such time as the research is completed (at which time it becomes a determinable-lived intangible asset) or determined to have no future use (at which time it is impaired).
	The purchase price allocations for SBi, Berchtold, PST, MAKO and other smaller acquisitions are based upon preliminary valuations, and our estimates and assumptions are subject to change within the measurement period as the valuations are finalized. We are in the process of verifying data and finalizing information related to these acquisitions to finalize the recording of identifiable intangible assets, deferred income taxes and the corresponding effect on the value of goodwill.
	The allocation of the purchase prices of each acquisition to the acquired net assets is as follows:
		2014												2013
		SBi			Berchtold			PST			Other			MAKO
	Purchase price paid	$	358		$	172		$	120		$	148		$	1,679
	Tangible assets acquired:
	Inventory	34			22			7			5			50
	Other assets	4			38			19			25			174
	Liabilities	(2		)	(45		)	(33		)	(32		)	(277		)
	Intangible assets:
	Customer relationship	19			11			33			4			91
	Trade name	—			7			—			—			24
	Developed technology & patents	82			32			26			70			231
	IPRD	—			—			—			2			169
	Goodwill	221			107			68			74			1,217
		$	358		$	172		$	120		$	148		$	1,679

LongTerm_Debt_and_Credit_Facil

Long-Term Debt and Credit Facilities	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014
Long-term Debt, Unclassified [Abstract]	'
Long-Term Debt And Credit Facilities	'
	LONG-TERM DEBT AND CREDIT FACILITIES
	Our debt is as follows:
				30-Sep			31-Dec
				2014			2013
	Senior unsecured notes:
		Rate	Due
		3.00%	15-Jan-15	$	500		$	500
		2.00%	30-Sep-16	749			749
		1.30%	1-Apr-18	598			598
		4.38%	15-Jan-20	498			498
		3.38%	15-May-24	589			—
		4.10%	1-Apr-43	395			394
		4.38%	15-May-44	398			—
	Commercial paper			199			—
	Other			36			25
		Total debt		3,962			2,764
		Less current maturities		(731		)	(25		)
		Total long-term debt		$	3,231		$	2,739
	In August 2014, we amended and restated our Senior Unsecured Revolving Credit Facility. The principal changes were to increase the aggregate principal amount of the commitments to $1,250, to extend the maturity date to August 22, 2019 and to revise the definition of the consolidated Earnings Before Interest Taxes Depreciation and Amortization (EBITDA) calculation.
	During 2014 we issued commercial paper under the commercial paper program we established in July 2011. The program allows us to have a maximum of $500 in commercial paper outstanding, with maturities up to 397 days from the date of issuance. As of September 30, 2014, outstanding commercial paper totaled $199, the weighted average original maturity of the commercial paper outstanding was approximately 84 days and the weighted average interest rate was 0.24%.
	In May 2014 we sold $600 in senior unsecured notes due 2024 (2024 Notes) and $400 of senior unsecured notes due 2044 (2044 Notes). The 2024 Notes will bear interest at 3.375% per year and, unless previously redeemed, will mature on May 15, 2024. The 2044 Notes will bear interest at 4.375% per year and, unless previously redeemed, will mature on May 15, 2044.
	Certain of our credit facilities require us to comply with financial and other covenants. We were in compliance with all covenants at September 30, 2014. We have lines of credit, issued by various financial institutions, available to fund our day-to-day operating needs. At September 30, 2014, we had $1,098 of borrowing capacity available under all of our existing credit facilities. The weighted average interest rate, excluding required fees, for all borrowings was 2.9% at September 30, 2014.
	At September 30, 2014, the total unamortized debt issuance costs incurred in connection with our outstanding notes were $22. The fair value of long-term debt (including current maturities and excluding the interest rate hedge) at September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013 was $3,786 and $2,790, respectively, based on the quoted interest rates for similar types and amounts of borrowing agreements.

Capital_Stock

Capital Stock	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014
Capital Stock Disclosures [Abstract]	'
Capital Stock	'
	CAPITAL STOCK
	In July 2014 we declared a quarterly dividend of $0.305 per share, payable October 31, 2014 to shareholders of record at the close of business on September 30, 2014.
	In December of 2012 and 2011, we announced that our Board of Directors had authorized us to purchase up to $405 and $500, respectively, of our common stock (the 2012 and 2011 Repurchase Programs, respectively). The manner, timing and amount of purchases is determined by management based on an evaluation of market conditions, stock price and other factors and is subject to regulatory considerations. Purchases are to be made from time to time in the open market, in privately negotiated transactions or otherwise.
	During 2014 we have repurchased 1.3 million shares at a cost of $100 under the 2011 Repurchase Program. As of September 30, 2014, the maximum dollar value of shares that may yet be purchased under the 2011 Repurchase Program was $178 and we had not made any repurchases pursuant to the 2012 Repurchase Program. At September 30, 2014, the maximum dollar value of shares that may be purchased under the authorized Repurchase Programs was $583.

Restructuring_Charges

Restructuring Charges	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014
Restructuring Charges [Abstract]	'
Restructuring Charges	'
	RESTRUCTURING CHARGES
	In recent years, we have incurred an ongoing annual level of restructuring-type activities to maintain a competitive cost structure, including manufacturing and workforce optimization. The costs incurred under the ongoing program have generally ranged from $50 to $75 annually. The productivity and cost savings plan was designed to accelerate cost reductions by streamlining management decision making, manufacturing and other work processes to help fund our growth strategy.
	A rollforward of our restructuring liability balance is as follows:
		Total			Severance and Related Costs			Contractual Obligations and Other
	January 1 Balance	$	20		$	10		$	10
	Charges to earnings	14			6			8
	Cash paid	(19		)	(9		)	(10		)
	Other adjustments	5			(1		)	6
	September 30 Balance	$	20		$	6		$	14

Income_Taxes_Notes

Income Taxes (Notes)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block]	'
	INCOME TAXES
	Our effective tax rates for the three-month periods were 86.6% and 24.9%, respectively, and 63.5% and 20.7%, respectively, for the nine-month periods. The increase in the effective tax rate for the three-month and nine-month periods was primarily due to recording the tax impacts of the establishment of a European regional headquarters and a cash repatriation to the United States planned for the second half of 2015. The expirations of the United States federal research and development tax credit and certain United States tax code provisions related to the taxation of foreign earnings also increased the effective tax rates.

Reclassification_Adjustments_O

Reclassification Adjustments Out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (AOCI) (Notes)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Abstract]	'
Comprehensive Income (Loss) Note [Text Block]	'
	ACCUMULATED OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS) (AOCI)
	Changes in and reclassifications out of AOCI in 2014 were as follows:
		Marketable Securities						Pension Plans						Hedges						Financial Statement Translation						Total
		Three Months			Nine Months			Three Months			Nine Months			Three Months			Nine Months			Three Months			Nine Months			Three Months			Nine Months
	Beginning balance	$	7		$	—		$	(81	)	$	(81	)	$	(5	)	$	7		$	310		$	306		$	231		$	232
	Other comprehensive income (loss) (OCI)	—			11			3			—			7			(9		)	(312		)	(308		)	(302		)	(306		)
	Income tax expense on OCI	—			(1		)	1			1			(3		)	4			—			—			(2		)	4
	Reclassifications out of AOCI into:
	Cost of sales	—			—			1			5			1			(4		)	—			—			2			1
	Other (income) expense	(4		)	(7		)	—			—			—			—			—			—			(4		)	(7		)
	Income tax expense (benefit)	1			1			—			(1		)	—			2			—			—			1			2
	Total other comprehensive income (loss)	(3		)	4			5			5			5			(7		)	(312		)	(308		)	(305		)	(306		)
	Balance at September 30	$	4		$	4		$	(76	)	$	(76	)	$	—		$	—		$	(2	)	$	(2	)	$	(74	)	$	(74	)

Segment_Information

Segment Information	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014
Segment Reporting [Abstract]	'
Segment Information	'
	SEGMENT INFORMATION
	Net sales and net earnings by business segment are as follows:
		Reconstructive								MedSurg								Neurotechnology and Spine								Total
		Three Months				Nine Months				Three Months				Nine Months				Three Months				Nine Months				Three Months						Nine Months
		2014		2013		2014		2013		2014		2013		2014		2013		2014		2013		2014		2013		2014			2013			2014			2013
	Net sales	$	1,016	$	936	$	3,043	$	2,858	$	936	$	805	$	2,727	$	2,474	$	437	$	410	$	1,287	$	1,221	$	2,389		$	2,151		$	7,057		$	6,553
	Segment net earnings	259		254		735		718		163		130		459		452		108		79		273		230		$	530		$	463		$	1,467		$	1,400
	Less: other (net of income taxes)
	Corporate and other																									(91		)	(65		)	(209		)	(179		)
	Acquisition and integration related charges																									(17		)	(9		)	(47		)	(41		)
	Amortization of intangible assets																									(34		)	(25		)	(99		)	(74		)
	Restructuring and related charges																									(8		)	(15		)	(37		)	(36		)
	Recall charges																									(23		)	(245		)	(512		)	(397		)
	Regulatory matter charges																									—			(1		)	—			(53		)
	Tax matters																									(300		)	—			(308		)	—
	Net earnings																									$	57		$	103		$	255		$	620
	Other than assets associated with the acquisitions that are discussed in greater detail in Note 5, there were no significant changes to total assets by segment from information provided in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2013.

Fair_Value_Measurements_Tables

Fair Value Measurements (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014
Fair Value Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Table Text Block]	'
	Assets and liabilities measured at fair value:	Total						Level 1					Level 2						Level 3
		September			December			September		December			September			December			September			December
		2014			2013			2014		2013			2014			2013			2014			2013
	Cash and cash equivalents	$	1,356		$	1,339		$	1,356	$	1,339		$	—		$	—		$	—		$	—
	Available-for-sale marketable securities
	Corporate and asset-backed debt securities	1,614			1,177			—		—			1,614			1,177			—			—
	Foreign government debt securities	828			845			—		—			828			845			—			—
	United States agency debt securities	361			211			—		—			361			211			—			—
	United States treasury debt securities	408			350			—		—			408			350			—			—
	Certificates of deposit	103			53			—		—			103			53			—			—
	Other	7			5			—		—			7			5			—			—
	Total available-for-sale marketable securities	3,321			2,641			—		—			3,321			2,641			—			—
	Trading marketable securities	77			72			77		72			—			—			—			—
	Foreign currency exchange forward contracts	21			25			—		—			21			25			—			—
		$	4,775		$	4,077		$	1,433	$	1,411		$	3,342		$	2,666		$	—		$	—
	Liabilities:
	Deferred compensation arrangements	$	77		$	72		$	77	$	72		$	—		$	—		$	—		$	—
	Contingent consideration
	Beginning Balance																		59			103
	Losses included in earnings																		—			(5		)
	Settlements																		(14		)	(39		)
	Balance at the end of the period	45			59			—		—			—			—			45			59
	Interest rate swap	6			—			—		—			6			—			—			—
	Foreign currency exchange forward contracts	23			2			—		—			23			2			—			—
		$	151		$	133		$	77	$	72		$	29		$	2		$	45		$	59
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Table Text Block]	'
	Summary of marketable securities:	Amortized Cost						Gross Unrealized Gains					Gross Unrealized Losses						Estimated Fair Value
		September			December			September		December			September			December			September			December
		2014			2013			2014		2013			2014			2013			2014			2013
	Available-for-sale marketable securities:
	Corporate and asset-backed debt securities	$	1,611		$	1,177		$	4	$	1		$	(1	)	$	(1	)	$	1,614		$	1,177
	Foreign government debt securities	826			846			2		—			—			(1		)	828			845
	United States agency debt securities	361			211			—		—			—			—			361			211
	United States treasury debt securities	408			350			—		—			—			—			408			350
	Certificates of deposit	103			53			—		—			—			—			103			53
	Other	7			5			—		—			—			—			7			5
	Total available-for-sale marketable securities	$	3,316		$	2,642		$	6	$	1		$	(1	)	$	(2	)	3,321			2,641
	Trading marketable securities																		77			72
	Total marketable securities																		$	3,398		$	2,713
	Reported as:
	Current assets-marketable securities																		$	3,321		$	2,641
	Noncurrent assets-other																		77			72
Investments Classified by Contractual Maturity Date [Table Text Block]	'
	Available-for-sale marketable securities by contractual maturity:
	Due in one year or less	$	532		$	425						$	532		$	424
	Due after one year through three years	2,468			1,989							2,473			1,989
	Due after three years	316			228							316			228
Schedule of Unrealized Loss on Investments [Table Text Block]	'
		Number of Investments	Fair Value			Unrealized Losses
	Less than 12 months
	Corporate and Asset-Backed	225	$	397		$	1
	Foreign Government	45	100			—
	United States Agency	37	178			—
	Other	86	312			—
		393	$	987		$	1
	Total
	Corporate and Asset-Backed	233	$	397		$	1
	Foreign Government	52	194			—
	United States Agency	37	178			—
	Other	87	312			—
		409	$	1,081		$	1

Recovered_Sheet1

Derivative Instruments and Hedging Strategies (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]	'
Schedule of Derivatives Instruments Statements of Financial Performance and Financial Position, Location [Table Text Block]	'
		Three Months							Nine Months
	Recorded in:	2014			2013				2014			2013
	Cost of goods sold	$	(1	)	$	—			$	4		$	—
	Other income (expense)	(2		)	—				(11		)	(3		)
	Total	$	(3	)	$	—			$	(7	)	$	(3	)
Schedule of Derivative Instruments in Statement of Financial Position, Fair Value [Table Text Block]	'
		Designated				Non-Designated				Total
	September 30, 2014
	Gross Notional Amount	$	219			$	3,155			$	3,374
	Maximum term in days									546
	Fair Value
	Other Current Assets	$	6			$	14			$	20
	Other Assets - Noncurrent	1				—				1
	Other Current Liabilities	1				22				23
		$	6			$	(8	)		$	(2	)
	December 31, 2013
	Gross Notional Amount	$	344			$	2,000			$	2,344
	Maximum term in days									546
	Fair Value
	Other Current Assets	$	11			$	10			$	21
	Other Assets - Noncurrent	1				3				4
	Other Current Liabilities	1				1				2
		$	11			$	12			$	23

Acquisitions_Tables

Acquisitions (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014
Business Combinations [Abstract]	'
Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table Text Block]	'
		2014												2013
		SBi			Berchtold			PST			Other			MAKO
	Purchase price paid	$	358		$	172		$	120		$	148		$	1,679
	Tangible assets acquired:
	Inventory	34			22			7			5			50
	Other assets	4			38			19			25			174
	Liabilities	(2		)	(45		)	(33		)	(32		)	(277		)
	Intangible assets:
	Customer relationship	19			11			33			4			91
	Trade name	—			7			—			—			24
	Developed technology & patents	82			32			26			70			231
	IPRD	—			—			—			2			169
	Goodwill	221			107			68			74			1,217
		$	358		$	172		$	120		$	148		$	1,679

LongTerm_Debt_and_Credit_Facil1

Long-Term Debt and Credit Facilities (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014
Long-term Debt, Unclassified [Abstract]	'
Maturities Of Long-Term Debt Disclosures	'
				30-Sep			31-Dec
				2014			2013
	Senior unsecured notes:
		Rate	Due
		3.00%	15-Jan-15	$	500		$	500
		2.00%	30-Sep-16	749			749
		1.30%	1-Apr-18	598			598
		4.38%	15-Jan-20	498			498
		3.38%	15-May-24	589			—
		4.10%	1-Apr-43	395			394
		4.38%	15-May-44	398			—
	Commercial paper			199			—
	Other			36			25
		Total debt		3,962			2,764
		Less current maturities		(731		)	(25		)
		Total long-term debt		$	3,231		$	2,739

Restructuring_Charges_Tables

Restructuring Charges (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014
Restructuring Charges [Abstract]	'
Restructuring Charges	'
		Total			Severance and Related Costs			Contractual Obligations and Other
	January 1 Balance	$	20		$	10		$	10
	Charges to earnings	14			6			8
	Cash paid	(19		)	(9		)	(10		)
	Other adjustments	5			(1		)	6
	September 30 Balance	$	20		$	6		$	14

Reclassification_Adjustments_O1

Reclassification Adjustments Out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (AOCI) (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Abstract]	'
Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Table Text Block]	'
		Marketable Securities						Pension Plans						Hedges						Financial Statement Translation						Total
		Three Months			Nine Months			Three Months			Nine Months			Three Months			Nine Months			Three Months			Nine Months			Three Months			Nine Months
	Beginning balance	$	7		$	—		$	(81	)	$	(81	)	$	(5	)	$	7		$	310		$	306		$	231		$	232
	Other comprehensive income (loss) (OCI)	—			11			3			—			7			(9		)	(312		)	(308		)	(302		)	(306		)
	Income tax expense on OCI	—			(1		)	1			1			(3		)	4			—			—			(2		)	4
	Reclassifications out of AOCI into:
	Cost of sales	—			—			1			5			1			(4		)	—			—			2			1
	Other (income) expense	(4		)	(7		)	—			—			—			—			—			—			(4		)	(7		)
	Income tax expense (benefit)	1			1			—			(1		)	—			2			—			—			1			2
	Total other comprehensive income (loss)	(3		)	4			5			5			5			(7		)	(312		)	(308		)	(305		)	(306		)
	Balance at September 30	$	4		$	4		$	(76	)	$	(76	)	$	—		$	—		$	(2	)	$	(2	)	$	(74	)	$	(74	)

Segment_Information_Tables

Segment Information (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014
Segment Reporting [Abstract]	'
Sales and Other Financial Information by Business Segment	'
		Reconstructive								MedSurg								Neurotechnology and Spine								Total
		Three Months				Nine Months				Three Months				Nine Months				Three Months				Nine Months				Three Months						Nine Months
		2014		2013		2014		2013		2014		2013		2014		2013		2014		2013		2014		2013		2014			2013			2014			2013
	Net sales	$	1,016	$	936	$	3,043	$	2,858	$	936	$	805	$	2,727	$	2,474	$	437	$	410	$	1,287	$	1,221	$	2,389		$	2,151		$	7,057		$	6,553
	Segment net earnings	259		254		735		718		163		130		459		452		108		79		273		230		$	530		$	463		$	1,467		$	1,400
	Less: other (net of income taxes)
	Corporate and other																									(91		)	(65		)	(209		)	(179		)
	Acquisition and integration related charges																									(17		)	(9		)	(47		)	(41		)
	Amortization of intangible assets																									(34		)	(25		)	(99		)	(74		)
	Restructuring and related charges																									(8		)	(15		)	(37		)	(36		)
	Recall charges																									(23		)	(245		)	(512		)	(397		)
	Regulatory matter charges																									—			(1		)	—			(53		)
	Tax matters																									(300		)	—			(308		)	—
	Net earnings																									$	57		$	103		$	255		$	620

Fair_Value_Measurements_Narrat

Fair Value Measurements (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013
Investment Income, Nonoperating	$10	$7	$21	$18
Asset-backed Securities [Member] | Moody's, A2 Rating [Member]	'	'	'	'
Percentage Of Company's Investments With Credit Quality Rating Less Than Single A And A2	'	'	1.00%	'
Asset-backed Securities [Member] | Fitch, A Rating [Member]	'	'	'	'
Percentage Of Company's Investments With Credit Quality Rating Less Than Single A And A2	'	'	1.00%	'

Fair_Value_Measurements_Valuat

Fair Value Measurements (Valuation Of Financial Instruments By Pricing Categories) (Details) (USD $)	9 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Cash and Cash Equivalents, Fair Value Disclosure	$1,356	$1,339	'
Investments, Fair Value Disclosure	4,775	4,077	'
Derivative Asset	21	25	'
Liabilities:	77	72	'
Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset Value	45	59	'
Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure, Recurring	151	133	'
Available-for-sale Securities [Member]	'	'	'
Investments, Fair Value Disclosure	3,321	2,641	'
Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | Corporate and asset-backed debt securities	'	'	'
Investments, Fair Value Disclosure	1,614	1,177	'
Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | Foreign Government Debt Securities [Member]	'	'	'
Investments, Fair Value Disclosure	828	845	'
Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | US Government Agencies Debt Securities [Member]	'	'	'
Investments, Fair Value Disclosure	361	211	'
Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | US Treasury Securities [Member]	'	'	'
Investments, Fair Value Disclosure	408	350	'
Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | Certificates of Deposit [Member]	'	'	'
Investments, Fair Value Disclosure	103	53	'
Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | Other Security Investments [Member]	'	'	'
Investments, Fair Value Disclosure	7	5	'
Trading Securities [Member]	'	'	'
Investments, Fair Value Disclosure	77	72	'
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member]	'	'	'
Cash and Cash Equivalents, Fair Value Disclosure	1,356	1,339	'
Investments, Fair Value Disclosure	1,433	1,411	'
Liabilities:	77	72	'
Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure, Recurring	77	72	'
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] | Trading Securities [Member]	'	'	'
Investments, Fair Value Disclosure	77	72	'
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]	'	'	'
Cash and Cash Equivalents, Fair Value Disclosure	0	0	'
Investments, Fair Value Disclosure	3,342	2,666	'
Derivative Asset	21	25	'
Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure, Recurring	29	2	'
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Available-for-sale Securities [Member]	'	'	'
Investments, Fair Value Disclosure	3,321	2,641	'
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | Corporate and asset-backed debt securities	'	'	'
Investments, Fair Value Disclosure	1,614	1,177	'
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | Foreign Government Debt Securities [Member]	'	'	'
Investments, Fair Value Disclosure	828	845	'
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | US Government Agencies Debt Securities [Member]	'	'	'
Investments, Fair Value Disclosure	361	211	'
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | US Treasury Securities [Member]	'	'	'
Investments, Fair Value Disclosure	408	350	'
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | Certificates of Deposit [Member]	'	'	'
Investments, Fair Value Disclosure	103	53	'
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | Other Security Investments [Member]	'	'	'
Investments, Fair Value Disclosure	7	5	'
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member]	'	'	'
Cash and Cash Equivalents, Fair Value Disclosure	0	0	'
Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset Value	45	59	103
Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset and Liability, Gain (Loss) Included in Earnings	'	5	'
Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset and Liability, Settlements	14	39	'
Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure, Recurring	45	59	'
Interest Rate Swap [Member]	'	'	'
Derivative Liability	6	'	'
Interest Rate Swap [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]	'	'	'
Derivative Liability	6	'	'
Foreign Exchange [Member]	'	'	'
Derivative Liability	23	2	'
Foreign Exchange [Member] | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member]	'	'	'
Derivative Liability	$23	$2	'

Fair_Value_Measurements_Assets

Fair Value Measurements (Assets and Liabilities Measured At Fair Value On A Recurring Basis Using Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)) (Details) (USD $)	9 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Estimated Fair Value	$3,398	$2,713
Available-for-sale Securities [Member]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis	3,316	2,642
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gain	6	1
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Loss	1	2
Estimated Fair Value	3,321	2,641
Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | Asset-backed Securities [Member]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis	1,611	1,177
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gain	4	1
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Loss	1	1
Estimated Fair Value	1,614	1,177
Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | Foreign Government Debt Securities [Member]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis	826	846
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gain	2	'
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Loss	0	1
Estimated Fair Value	828	845
Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | US Government Agencies Debt Securities [Member]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis	361	211
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gain	0	0
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Loss	0	'
Estimated Fair Value	361	211
Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | US Treasury Securities [Member]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis	408	350
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gain	0	'
Estimated Fair Value	408	350
Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | Certificates of Deposit [Member]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis	103	53
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gain	0	0
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Loss	'	0
Estimated Fair Value	103	53
Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | Other Security Investments [Member]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis	7	5
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gain	0	'
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Loss	'	0
Estimated Fair Value	7	5
Trading Securities [Member]	'	'
Estimated Fair Value	77	72
Available-for-sale Securities [Member]	'	'
Estimated Fair Value	3,321	2,641
Other Assets [Member]	'	'
Estimated Fair Value	$77	$72

Fair_Value_Measurements_Market

Fair Value Measurements (Marketable Securities) (Details) (USD $)	9 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Estimated Fair Value	$3,398	$2,713
Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, Next Twelve Months, Amortized Cost Basis	532	425
Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, Next Twelve Months, Fair Value	532	424
Available for sale Securities, Debt Maturities, After One Through Three Years, Amortized Cost	2,468	1,989
Available for sale Securities, Debt Maturities, After One Through Three Years, Fair Value	2,473	1,989
Available for sale Securities, Debt Maturities, After Three Years, Amortized Cost	316	228
Available for sale Securities, Debt Maturities, After Three Years, Fair Value	316	228
Other Assets [Member]	'	'
Estimated Fair Value	77	72
Available-for-sale Securities [Member]	'	'
Estimated Fair Value	3,321	2,641
Available-for-sale Securities [Member]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis	3,316	2,642
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gain	6	1
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Loss	-1	-2
Estimated Fair Value	3,321	2,641
Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | Asset-backed Securities [Member]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis	1,611	1,177
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gain	4	1
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Loss	-1	-1
Estimated Fair Value	1,614	1,177
Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | Foreign Government Debt Securities [Member]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis	826	846
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gain	2	'
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Loss	0	-1
Estimated Fair Value	828	845
Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | US Government Agencies Debt Securities [Member]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis	361	211
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gain	0	0
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Loss	0	'
Estimated Fair Value	361	211
Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | US Treasury Securities [Member]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis	408	350
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gain	0	'
Estimated Fair Value	408	350
Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | Certificates of Deposit [Member]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis	103	53
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gain	0	0
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Loss	'	0
Estimated Fair Value	103	53
Available-for-sale Securities [Member] | Other Security Investments [Member]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis	7	5
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Gain	0	'
Available-for-sale Securities, Gross Unrealized Loss	'	0
Estimated Fair Value	7	5
Trading Securities [Member]	'	'
Estimated Fair Value	$77	$72

Fair_Value_Measurements_Net_Ca

Fair Value Measurements (Net Carrying Value And Estimated Fair Value Of Available-For-Sale Marketable Securities) (Details) (USD $)	Sep. 30, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, Next Twelve Months, Amortized Cost Basis	$532	$425
Available-for-sale Securities, Debt Maturities, Next Twelve Months, Fair Value	532	424
Available for sale Securities, Debt Maturities, After One Through Three Years, Amortized Cost	2,468	1,989
Available for sale Securities, Debt Maturities, After One Through Three Years, Fair Value	2,473	1,989
Available for sale Securities, Debt Maturities, After Three Years, Amortized Cost	316	228
Available for sale Securities, Debt Maturities, After Three Years, Fair Value	$316	$228

Fair_Value_Measurements_Unreal

Fair Value Measurements (Unrealized Losses And Fair Value Of Investments With Unrealized Losses) (Details) (USD $)	9 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2014
Available-for-sale, Securities in Unrealized Loss Positions, Qualitative Disclosure, Number of Positions, Less than One Year	393
Available-for-sale, Securities in Unrealized Loss Positions, Qualitative Disclosure, Number of Positions	409
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than Twelve Months, Fair Value	$987
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value	1,081
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Loss	1
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Aggregate Loss	1
Asset-backed Securities [Member]	'
Available-for-sale, Securities in Unrealized Loss Positions, Qualitative Disclosure, Number of Positions, Less than One Year	225
Available-for-sale, Securities in Unrealized Loss Positions, Qualitative Disclosure, Number of Positions	233
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than Twelve Months, Fair Value	397
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value	397
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Aggregate Loss	1
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Aggregate Loss	1
Foreign Government Debt Securities [Member]	'
Available-for-sale, Securities in Unrealized Loss Positions, Qualitative Disclosure, Number of Positions, Less than One Year	45
Available-for-sale, Securities in Unrealized Loss Positions, Qualitative Disclosure, Number of Positions	52
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than Twelve Months, Fair Value	100
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value	194
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Aggregate Loss	0
US Government Agencies Debt Securities [Member]	'
Available-for-sale, Securities in Unrealized Loss Positions, Qualitative Disclosure, Number of Positions, Less than One Year	37
Available-for-sale, Securities in Unrealized Loss Positions, Qualitative Disclosure, Number of Positions	37
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than Twelve Months, Fair Value	178
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value	178
Other Debt Obligations [Member]	'
Available-for-sale, Securities in Unrealized Loss Positions, Qualitative Disclosure, Number of Positions, Less than One Year	86
Available-for-sale, Securities in Unrealized Loss Positions, Qualitative Disclosure, Number of Positions	87
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than Twelve Months, Fair Value	312
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value	$312

Derivative_Instruments_and_Hed1

Derivative Instruments and Hedging Strategies (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended	9 Months Ended	12 Months Ended	3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended		9 Months Ended	3 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014
		Foreign Exchange Contract [Member]	Foreign Exchange Contract [Member]	Foreign Exchange Contract [Member]	Foreign Exchange Contract [Member]	Interest Rate Swap [Member]	Senior Unsecured Notes 3.375% due 2024 [Member]	Other Noncurrent Liabilities [Member]	Long-term Debt [Member]
				Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member]	Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member]	Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member]		Interest Rate Swap [Member]	Interest Rate Swap [Member]
Notional Amount	'	$3,374	$2,344	$219	$344	$500	'	'	'
Foreign currency transaction losses	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	6	-6
Maximum Term (Days)	'546 days	'546 days	'546 days	'	'	'	'	'	'
Cash Flow Hedge Gain (Loss) to be Reclassified within Twelve Months	'	'	'	2	12	'	'	'	'
Senior Unsecured Notes	'	'	'	'	'	'	$600	'	'

Derivative_Instruments_and_Hed2

Derivative Instruments and Hedging Strategies (Forward Currency Exchange Contracts) (Details) (USD $)	9 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Derivative [Line Items]	'	'
Maximum Term (Days)	'	'546 days
Foreign Exchange Contract [Member]	'	'
Derivative [Line Items]	'	'
Notional Amount	$3,374	$2,344
Maximum Term (Days)	'546 days	'546 days
Derivative, Fair Value, Net	-2	23
Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] | Foreign Exchange Contract [Member]	'	'
Derivative [Line Items]	'	'
Notional Amount	219	344
Derivative, Fair Value, Net	6	11
Not Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] | Foreign Exchange Contract [Member]	'	'
Derivative [Line Items]	'	'
Notional Amount	3,155	2,000
Derivative, Fair Value, Net	-8	12
Other Current Assets | Foreign Exchange Contract [Member]	'	'
Derivative [Line Items]	'	'
Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Gross Asset	20	21
Other Current Assets | Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] | Foreign Exchange Contract [Member]	'	'
Derivative [Line Items]	'	'
Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Gross Asset	6	11
Other Current Assets | Not Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] | Foreign Exchange Contract [Member]	'	'
Derivative [Line Items]	'	'
Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Gross Asset	14	10
Other Noncurrent Assets [Member] | Foreign Exchange Contract [Member]	'	'
Derivative [Line Items]	'	'
Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Gross Asset	1	4
Other Noncurrent Assets [Member] | Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] | Foreign Exchange Contract [Member]	'	'
Derivative [Line Items]	'	'
Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Gross Asset	1	1
Other Noncurrent Assets [Member] | Not Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] | Foreign Exchange Contract [Member]	'	'
Derivative [Line Items]	'	'
Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Gross Asset	0	3
Other Current Liabilities | Foreign Exchange Contract [Member]	'	'
Derivative [Line Items]	'	'
Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Gross Liability	23	2
Other Current Liabilities | Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] | Foreign Exchange Contract [Member]	'	'
Derivative [Line Items]	'	'
Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Gross Liability	1	1
Other Current Liabilities | Not Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] | Foreign Exchange Contract [Member]	'	'
Derivative [Line Items]	'	'
Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Gross Liability	$22	$1

Recovered_Sheet2

Derivative Instruments And Hedging Strategies Derivative Instruments and Hedging Strategies (Income Statement Location) (Details) (Foreign Exchange Contract [Member], Not Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member], USD $)	3 Months Ended	9 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]	'	'	'
Foreign Currency Transaction Gain (Loss), before Tax	($3)	($7)	($3)
Cost of Sales [Member]	'	'	'
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]	'	'	'
Foreign Currency Transaction Gain (Loss), before Tax	-1	4	'
Other Income (expense) [Member]	'	'	'
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]	'	'	'
Foreign Currency Transaction Gain (Loss), before Tax	($2)	($11)	($3)

Contingencies_Narrative_Detail

Contingencies (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013
In Millions, unless otherwise specified		Rejuvenate and ABG II Voluntary Recall [Member]	Electrical Network Communications, Hospital Beds [Member]	Patents Under Reexamination [Member]	Number of Remaining Patents [Member]	Minimum [Member]	Maximum [Member]	Zimmer Product Infringement [Member]
			patent	patent	patent	Rejuvenate and ABG II Voluntary Recall [Member]	Rejuvenate and ABG II Voluntary Recall [Member]
Loss Contingency Accrual, at Carrying Value	$80	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Loss Contingency, Estimate of Possible Loss	'	'	'	'	'	1,425	2,290	'
Loss Contingency, Damages Awarded, Value	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'228
Estimated Litigation Liability	'	$25	'	'	'	'	'	'
Loss Contingency, Number of Patents	'	'	9	6	3	'	'	'

Acquisitions_Narrative_Details

Acquisitions (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	9 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2014
Small Bone Innovations [Member]	'
Business Acquisition [Line Items]	'
Intangible assets:	$358
Berchtold	'
Business Acquisition [Line Items]	'
Intangible assets:	172
PST	'
Business Acquisition [Line Items]	'
Intangible assets:	120
MAKO	'
Business Acquisition [Line Items]	'
Intangible assets:	1,679
Customer relationship | Small Bone Innovations [Member]	'
Business Acquisition [Line Items]	'
Tangible assets acquired:	'12 years
Intangible assets:	19
Customer relationship | Berchtold	'
Business Acquisition [Line Items]	'
Tangible assets acquired:	'8 years
Intangible assets:	11
Customer relationship | PST	'
Business Acquisition [Line Items]	'
Tangible assets acquired:	'14 years
Intangible assets:	33
Customer relationship | MAKO	'
Business Acquisition [Line Items]	'
Tangible assets acquired:	'9 years
Intangible assets:	$91

Acquisitions_Acquisitions_Allo

Acquisitions Acquisitions (Allocation Of The Preliminary Purchase Price To The Acquired Net Assets Of The Trauson Acquisition (Details) (USD $)	Sep. 30, 2014
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Small Bone Innovations [Member]	'
Purchase price paid	$358
Inventory	34
Other assets	4
Liabilities	-2
Intangible assets:	358
Goodwill	221
Berchtold	'
Purchase price paid	172
Inventory	22
Other assets	38
Liabilities	-45
Intangible assets:	172
Goodwill	107
PST	'
Purchase price paid	120
Inventory	7
Other assets	19
Liabilities	-33
Intangible assets:	120
Goodwill	68
Other	'
Purchase price paid	148
Inventory	5
Other assets	25
Liabilities	-32
Goodwill	74
MAKO	'
Purchase price paid	1,679
Inventory	50
Other assets	174
Liabilities	-277
Intangible assets:	1,679
Goodwill	1,217
Customer relationship | Small Bone Innovations [Member]	'
Intangible assets:	19
Customer relationship | Berchtold	'
Intangible assets:	11
Customer relationship | PST	'
Intangible assets:	33
Customer relationship | Other	'
Intangible assets:	4
Customer relationship | MAKO	'
Intangible assets:	91
Trade name | Small Bone Innovations [Member]	'
Intangible assets:	0
Trade name | Berchtold	'
Intangible assets:	7
Trade name | PST	'
Intangible assets:	0
Trade name | Other	'
Intangible assets:	0
Trade name | MAKO	'
Intangible assets:	24
Developed technology & patents | Small Bone Innovations [Member]	'
Intangible assets:	82
Developed technology & patents | Berchtold	'
Intangible assets:	32
Developed technology & patents | PST	'
Intangible assets:	26
Developed technology & patents | Other	'
Intangible assets:	70
Developed technology & patents | MAKO	'
Intangible assets:	231
IPRD | Small Bone Innovations [Member]	'
Intangible assets:	0
IPRD | Berchtold	'
Intangible assets:	0
IPRD | PST	'
Intangible assets:	0
IPRD | Other	'
Intangible assets:	2
IPRD | MAKO	'
Intangible assets:	$169

LongTerm_Debt_and_Credit_Facil2

Long-Term Debt and Credit Facilities (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	9 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity	$1,250	'
Debt Instrument, Maturity	'397 days	'
Commercial Paper, at Carrying Value	199	'
Commercial Paper, weighted average interest rate	0.24%	'
Line of Credit Facility, Remaining Borrowing Capacity	1,098	'
Long-term debt, weighted-average interest rate	2.90%	'
Unamortized Debt Issuance Expense	22	'
Debt Instrument, Fair Value Disclosure	3,786	2,790
3.00% senior unsecured notes, due January 15, 2015	'	'
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage	3.00%	'
Senior Unsecured Notes 2.00% due 2016 [Member]	'	'
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage	2.00%	'
1.30% senior unsecured notes, due April 1, 2018	'	'
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage	1.30%	'
4.375% senior unsecured notes, due January 15, 2020	'	'
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage	4.38%	'
Senior Unsecured Notes 3.375% due 2024 [Member]	'	'
Senior Unsecured Notes	600	'
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage	3.38%	'
4.10% senior unsecured notes, due April 1, 2043	'	'
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage	4.10%	'
4.375% senior unsecured notes due 2044 [Member]	'	'
Senior Unsecured Notes	400	'
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage	4.38%	'
Commercial paper	'	'
Commercial paper	199	0
Debt Instrument, Maturity	'84 days	'
Maximum [Member] | Commercial paper	'	'
Commercial paper	$500	'

LongTerm_Debt_and_Credit_Facil3

Long-Term Debt and Credit Facilities (Maturities Of Long-Term Debt Disclosures) (Details) (USD $)	Sep. 30, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Other	$36	$25
Total debt	3,962	2,764
Less current maturities	-731	-25
Total long-term debt	3,231	2,739
3.00% senior unsecured notes, due January 15, 2015	'	'
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage	3.00%	'
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Next Twelve Months	500	500
Senior Unsecured Notes 2.00% due 2016 [Member]	'	'
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage	2.00%	'
Senior unsecured notes repayable in year three	749	749
1.30% senior unsecured notes, due April 1, 2018	'	'
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage	1.30%	'
Senior unsecured notes repayable in year four	598	598
4.375% senior unsecured notes, due January 15, 2020	'	'
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage	4.38%	'
Senior unsecured notes repayable after year five	498	498
Senior Unsecured Notes 3.375% due 2024 [Member]	'	'
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage	3.38%	'
Senior unsecured notes repayable after year five	589	0
4.10% senior unsecured notes, due April 1, 2043	'	'
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage	4.10%	'
Senior unsecured notes repayable after year five	395	394
4.375% senior unsecured notes due 2044 [Member]	'	'
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage	4.38%	'
Senior unsecured notes repayable after year five	398	0
Commercial paper	'	'
Commercial paper	$199	$0

LongTerm_Debt_and_Credit_Facil4

Long-Term Debt and Credit Facilities Long-Term Debt and Credit Facilities (Parentheticals) (Details)	Sep. 30, 2014
3.00% senior unsecured notes, due January 15, 2015	'
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage	3.00%
2.00% senior unsecured notes, due September 30, 2016	'
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage	2.00%
1.30% senior unsecured notes, due April 1, 2018	'
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage	1.30%
4.375% senior unsecured notes, due January 15, 2020	'
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage	4.38%
3.375% senior unsecured notes due 2024 [Member]	'
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage	3.38%
4.10% senior unsecured notes, due April 1, 2043	'
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage	4.10%
4.375% senior unsecured notes due 2044 [Member]	'
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage	4.38%

Capital_Stock_Narrative_Detail

Capital Stock (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended	9 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Millions, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Dec. 31, 2012	Sep. 30, 2014	Dec. 31, 2011
			2012 $405.0 Million Repurchase Agreement [Member]	2011 $500.0 Million Repurchase Agreement [Member]	2011 $500.0 Million Repurchase Agreement [Member]
Cash dividends declared, per share of common stock	$0.31	$0.92	'	'	'
Stock Repurchase Program, Authorized Amount	'	'	$405	'	$500
Stock Repurchased and Retired During Period, Shares	'	1.3	'	1.3	'
Repurchase and retirement of 1.3 million shares of common stock	'	100	'	0	'
Stock Repurchase Program, Remaining Authorized Repurchase Amount	$583	$583	'	$178	'

Restructuring_Charges_Narrativ

Restructuring Charges (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013
Restructuring charges	$4	$14	$14	$38
Cash paid	50	'	'	'
Historical Restructuring Cost Per Year, Maximum	75	'	'	'
Severance and Related Costs	'	'	'	'
Restructuring charges	'	'	6	'
Contractual Obligations and Other	'	'	'	'
Restructuring charges	'	'	$8	'

Company_Recorded_Restructuring

Company Recorded Restructuring Charges (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013
January 1 Balance	'	'	$20	'
Charges to earnings	4	14	14	38
Cash paid	'	'	-19	'
Other adjustments	'	'	5	'
September 30 Balance	20	'	20	'
Severance and Related Costs	'	'	'	'
January 1 Balance	'	'	10	'
Charges to earnings	'	'	6	'
Cash paid	'	'	-9	'
Other adjustments	'	'	-1	'
September 30 Balance	6	'	6	'
Contractual Obligations and Other	'	'	'	'
January 1 Balance	'	'	10	'
Charges to earnings	'	'	8	'
Cash paid	'	'	-10	'
Other adjustments	'	'	6	'
September 30 Balance	$14	'	$14	'

Income_Taxes_Details

Income Taxes (Details)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013
Effective Tax Rate [Abstract]	'	'	'	'
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, at Federal Statutory Income Tax Rate, Percent	86.60%	24.90%	63.50%	20.70%

Reclassification_Adjustments_O2

Reclassification Adjustments Out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (AOCI) Reclassification Adjustments Out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (AOCI) (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax	$231	'	$232	'
Other comprehensive income (OCI)	-302	'	-306	'
Income taxes	368	34	444	161
Other comprehensive loss	-305	115	-306	17
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax	-74	'	-74	'
Marketable Securities	'	'	'	'
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax	7	'	'	'
Other comprehensive income (OCI)	0	'	11	'
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Unrealized Holding Gain (Loss) on Securities Arising During Period, Tax	0	'	-1	'
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax	4	'	4	'
Pension Plans	'	'	'	'
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax	-81	'	-81	'
Other comprehensive income (OCI)	3	'	0	'
Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Tax	1	'	1	'
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax	-76	'	-76	'
Hedges	'	'	'	'
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax	-5	'	7	'
Other comprehensive income (OCI)	7	'	-9	'
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Derivatives Qualifying as Hedges, Tax	-3	'	4	'
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax	0	'	0	'
Financial Statement Translation	'	'	'	'
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax	310	'	306	'
Other comprehensive income (OCI)	-312	'	-308	'
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Translation Adjustment, Tax	0	'	0	'
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax	-2	'	-2	'
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income	'	'	'	'
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Tax	-2	'	4	'
Other comprehensive loss	'	'	-306	'
Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Member]	'	'	'	'
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Income taxes	1	'	2	'
Other comprehensive loss	-305	'	-306	'
Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Member] | Marketable Securities	'	'	'	'
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Income taxes	1	'	1	'
Other comprehensive loss	-3	'	4	'
Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Member] | Pension Plans	'	'	'	'
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Income taxes	0	'	-1	'
Other comprehensive loss	5	'	5	'
Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Member] | Hedges	'	'	'	'
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Income taxes	0	'	2	'
Other comprehensive loss	5	'	-7	'
Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Member] | Financial Statement Translation	'	'	'	'
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Income taxes	0	'	0	'
Other comprehensive loss	-312	'	-308	'
Cost of Sales [Member] | Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Member]	'	'	'	'
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Reclassification from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, Current Period, Net of Tax	2	'	1	'
Cost of Sales [Member] | Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Member] | Marketable Securities	'	'	'	'
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI for Sale of Securities, before Tax	0	'	0	'
Cost of Sales [Member] | Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Member] | Pension Plans	'	'	'	'
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, for Net Gain (Loss), before Tax	1	'	5	'
Cost of Sales [Member] | Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Member] | Hedges	'	'	'	'
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI on Derivatives, before Tax	1	'	-4	'
Cost of Sales [Member] | Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Member] | Financial Statement Translation	'	'	'	'
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Gain (Loss), before Reclassification and Tax	0	'	0	'
Other Income (expense) [Member] | Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Member]	'	'	'	'
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Reclassification from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, Current Period, Net of Tax	-4	'	-7	'
Other Income (expense) [Member] | Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Member] | Marketable Securities	'	'	'	'
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI for Sale of Securities, Net of Tax	-4	'	-7	'
Other Income (expense) [Member] | Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Member] | Pension Plans	'	'	'	'
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI, Pension and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans, Tax	0	'	0	'
Other Income (expense) [Member] | Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Member] | Hedges	'	'	'	'
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI on Derivatives, before Tax	0	'	0	'
Other Income (expense) [Member] | Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Member] | Financial Statement Translation	'	'	'	'
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Gain (Loss), before Reclassification and Tax	$0	'	$0	'

Segment_Information_Sales_And_

Segment Information (Sales And Other Financial Information By Business Segment) (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013
Net sales	$2,389	$2,151	$7,057	$6,553
Segment net earnings	450	150	778	826
Acquisition and integration related charges	17	9	47	41
Amortization of intangible assets	-34	-25	-99	-74
Restructuring and related charges	-8	-15	-37	-36
Recall charges	-23	-245	-512	-397
Regulatory matter charges	'	-1	'	-53
Tax matters	-300	'	-308	'
Net earnings	57	103	255	620
Reconstructive	'	'	'	'
Net sales	1,016	936	3,043	2,858
Segment net earnings	259	254	735	718
MedSurg	'	'	'	'
Net sales	936	805	2,727	2,474
Segment net earnings	163	130	459	452
Neurotechnology and Spine	'	'	'	'
Net sales	437	410	1,287	1,221
Segment net earnings	108	79	273	230
Operating Segments [Member]	'	'	'	'
Net sales	2,389	2,151	7,057	6,553
Segment net earnings	530	463	1,467	1,400
Corporate and Other [Member]	'	'	'	'
Segment net earnings	($91)	($65)	($209)	($179)