Stryker (SYK) 10-Q 30 Apr 15 2015 Q1 Quarterly report Financial data

Document_and_Entity_Informatio

Document and Entity Information	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2015
Document and Entity Information [Abstract]
Document Type	10-Q
Amendment Flag	FALSE
Document Period End Date	31-Mar-15
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2015
Document Fiscal Period Focus	Q1
Trading Symbol	SYK
Entity Registrant Name	STRYKER CORP
Entity Central Index Key	310764
Current Fiscal Year End Date	-19
Entity Filer Category	Large Accelerated Filer
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding	378,409,144

Consolidated_Statements_Of_Ear

Consolidated Statements Of Earnings (USD $)	3 Months Ended
In Millions, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 31, 2015	Mar. 31, 2014
Income Statement [Abstract]
Net sales	$2,379	$2,305
Cost of sales	826	776
Gross profit	1,553	1,529
Research, development and engineering expenses	152	150
Selling, general and administrative expenses	892	859
Recall charges	54	344
Intangible asset amortization	49	45
Total operating expenses	1,147	1,398
Operating income	406	131
Other income (expense), net	-29	-24
Earnings before income taxes	377	107
Income taxes	153	37
Net earnings	$224	$70
Net earnings per share of common stock:
Basic net earnings per share of common stock	$0.59	$0.19
Diluted net earnings per share of common stock	$0.58	$0.18
Weighted-average shares outstanding - in millions:
Basic	378.9	378.2
Net effect of dilutive employee stock options	4.6	4.4
Diluted	383.5	382.6
Anti-dilutive shares excluded from the calculation of net effect of dilutive employee stock options	0	2.5

Consolidated_Statement_of_Comp

Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income (USD $)	3 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 31, 2015	Mar. 31, 2014
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net earnings	$224	$70
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Abstract]
Marketable securities	1	3
Pension plans	13	-1
Unrealized gains on designated hedges	1	-3
Financial statement translation	-282	37
Total other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax	-267	36
Comprehensive (loss) income	($43)	$106

Consolidated_Balance_Sheets

Consolidated Balance Sheets (USD $)	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Current assets
Cash and cash equivalents	$1,674	$1,795
Marketable securities	2,589	3,205
Accounts receivable, less allowance of $57 ($59 in 2014)	1,521	1,572
Inventories
Materials and supplies	260	248
Work in Process	101	88
Finished Goods	1,221	1,252
Total inventories	1,582	1,588
Deferred income taxes	894	989
Prepaid expenses and other current assets	467	524
Total current assets	8,727	9,673
Property, plant and equipment
Land, buildings and improvements	667	678
Machinery and equipment	1,861	1,919
Total property, plant and equipment	2,528	2,597
Less allowance for depreciation	1,459	1,499
Net property, plant and equipment	1,069	1,098
Other assets
Goodwill	4,099	4,186
Other intangibles, net	1,960	2,018
Other	725	738
Total assets	16,580	17,713
Current liabilities
Accounts payable	333	329
Accrued compensation	346	597
Income taxes	288	333
Dividend payable	131	131
Accrued recall expenses	1,588	1,593
Accrued expenses and other liabilities	784	754
Current maturities of debt	225	727
Total current liabilities	3,695	4,464
Long-term debt, excluding current maturities	3,257	3,246
Other liabilities	1,307	1,408
Shareholders' equity
Common stock, $0.10 par value: Authorized 1 billion shares, outstanding: 378 million shares (378 million in 2014)	38	38
Additional paid-in capital	1,277	1,252
Retained earnings	7,527	7,559
Accumulated other comprehensive income	-521	-254
Total shareholders' equity	8,321	8,595
Total liabilities & shareholders' equity	$16,580	$17,713

Consolidated_Balance_Sheets_Pa

Consolidated Balance Sheets (Parentheticals) (USD $)	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
In Millions, except Share data, unless otherwise specified
Statement of Financial Position [Abstract]
Accounts receivable, allowance	$57	$59
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 Loss
Balances at December 31, 2014 at Dec. 31, 2014	$8,595,000,000	$38,000,000	$1,252,000,000	$7,559,000,000	($254,000,000)
Net earnings	224,000,000			224,000,000
Other comprehensive loss	-267,000,000				-267,000,000
Issuance of 1.2 million shares of common stock under stock option and benefit plans, including $37 excess income tax benefit	7,000,000		7,000,000
Repurchase and retirement of 1.4 million shares of common stock	-130,000,000		-5,000,000	-125,000,000
Share-based compensation	23,000,000		23,000,000
Cash dividends declared of $0.345 per share of common stock	-131,000,000			-131,000,000
Balances at March 31, 2015 at Mar. 31, 2015	$8,321,000,000	$38,000,000	$1,277,000,000	$7,527,000,000	($521,000,000)

Consolidated_Statement_Of_Shar1

Consolidated Statement Of Shareholders' Equity (Parenthetical) (USD $)	3 Months Ended
In Millions, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 31, 2015
Statement of Stockholders' Equity [Abstract]
Issuance of common stock under stock option and benefit plans, shares	1.2
Issuance of common stock under stock option and benefit plans, excess income tax benefit	$37
Repurchase and retirement of common stock, shares	1.4
Cash dividends declared, per share of common stock	$0.35

Consolidated_Statements_Of_Cas

Consolidated Statements Of Cash Flows (USD $)	3 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 31, 2015	Mar. 31, 2014
Operating activities
Net earnings	$224	$70
Adjustments to reconcile net earnings to net cash provided by operating activities:
Depreciation	45	46
Amortization of intangible assets	49	45
Share-based compensation	23	21
Gross recall charges	54	344
Sale of inventory stepped up to fair value at acquisition	7	5
Changes in operating assets and liabilities, net of effects of acquisitions:
Accounts receivable	12	93
Inventories	-42	-61
Accounts payable	8	30
Accrued expenses and other liabilities	-142	-226
Recall related payments	-19	-24
Income taxes	27	-56
Other	134	-78
Net cash provided by operating activities	380	209
Investing activities
Acquisitions, net of cash acquired	-84	-272
Purchases of marketable securities	-631	-1,017
Proceeds from sales of marketable securities	1,087	1,008
Purchases of property, plant and equipment	-46	-70
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities	326	-351
Financing activities
Proceeds from borrowings	581	344
Payments on borrowings	-1,081	-55
Dividends paid	-131	-115
Repurchase and retirement of common stock	-130	0
Other financing	27	9
Net cash (used in) provided by financing activities	-734	183
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents	-93	1
Change in cash and cash equivalents	($121)	$42

Basis_Of_Presentation

Basis Of Presentation	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2015
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]
Basis of Presentation	BASIS OF PRESENTATION
	General Information
	These statements should be read in conjunction with our Annual Report on Form 10-K for 2014. 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.
	To conform with the current year presentation, certain immaterial amounts previously reported as selling, general and administrative expenses have been reclassified to cost of sales.
	New Accounting Pronouncements Not Yet Adopted
	In May 2014 the FASB issued ASU 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers. This guidance outlines a single, comprehensive model for accounting for revenue from contracts with customers. We will adopt the standard on January 1, 2017. We are still evaluating the impact, if any, that the standard will have on our financial statements.
	No other new accounting pronouncement issued or effective during the period 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)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2015
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Fair Value Measurements	FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS
	Financial assets and liabilities carried at fair value are classified and disclosed in one of the following three categories:
	Level 1	Quoted market prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities.
	Level 2	Observable market-based inputs or unobservable inputs that are corroborated by market data.
	Level 3	Unobservable inputs reflecting our assumptions or external inputs from active markets.
	When applying fair value principles in the valuation of assets and liabilities, we are required to maximize the use of quoted market prices and minimize the use of unobservable inputs. 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 or liability. 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 based on the net present value of expected cash flows utilizing 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. There were no significant transfers into or out of any level between December 31, 2014 and March 31, 2015.
	We remeasure our assets and liabilities 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 our financial assets or liabilities from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for 2014.
	Our valuation of our assets and liabilities measured at fair value is:
		March			December
		2015			2014
	Cash and cash equivalents	$	1,674		$	1,795
	Trading marketable securities	80			80
	Level 1 - Assets	$	1,754		$	1,875
	Available-for-sale marketable securities
	Corporate and asset-backed debt securities	1,263			1,525
	Foreign government debt securities	589			726
	United States agency debt securities	259			382
	United States treasury debt securities	423			474
	Certificates of deposit	66			110
	Other	4			12
	Total available-for-sale marketable securities	2,604			3,229
	Foreign currency exchange forward contracts	38			32
	Interest rate swap asset	21			10
	Level 2 - Assets	2,663			3,271
	Total assets measured at fair value	$	4,417		$	5,146
	Deferred compensation arrangements	80			80
	Level 1 - Liabilities	80			80
	Foreign currency exchange forward contracts	41			12
	Interest rate swap liability	3			—
	Level 2 - Liabilities	44			12
	Contingent consideration
	Beginning Balance	48			59
	Losses included in earnings	1			4
	Settlements	—			(15		)
	Balance at the end of the period	49			48
	Level 3 - Liabilities	49			48
	Total liabilities measured at fair value	$	173		$	140
	The cost and estimated fair value of available-for-sale marketable securities at March 31, 2015 by contractual maturity are:
		Cost			Estimated
					Fair Value
	Due in one year or less	$	403		$	403
	Due after one year through three years	1,893			1,897
	Due after three years	303			304
	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 March 31, 2015.
	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 $6 and $6 for the three-month period March 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively, and is included in other income (expense).
	A summary of our marketable securities follows:
		March			December
		2015			2014
	Available for Sale Securities:
		Amortized Cost
	Corporate and asset-backed debt securities	$	1,260		$	1,523
	Foreign government debt securities	588			725
	United States agency debt securities	258			382
	United States treasury debt securities	423			474
	Certificates of deposit	66			110
	Other	4			12
		Gross Unrealized Gains
	Corporate and asset-backed debt securities	$	3		$	3
	Foreign government debt securities	1			2
	United States agency debt securities	1			—
	United States treasury debt securities	—			—
	Certificates of deposit	—			—
	Other	—			—
	Gross Unrealized Losses
Corporate and asset-backed debt securities	$	—		$	(1	)
Foreign government debt securities	—			(1		)
United States agency debt securities	—			—
United States treasury debt securities	—			—
Certificates of deposit	—			—
Other	—			—
	Estimated Fair Value
Corporate and asset-backed debt securities	$	1,263		$	1,525
Foreign government debt securities	589			726
United States agency debt securities	259			382
United States treasury debt securities	423			474
Certificates of deposit	66			110
Other	4			12
Total available-for-sale marketable securities	$	2,604		$	3,229
Trading marketable securities	80			80
Total marketable securities	$	2,684		$	3,309
Reported as:
Current assets- marketable securities	$	2,589		$	3,205
Current assets- prepaid expenses and other current assets	15			24
Noncurrent assets- other	80			80
The fair value and gross unrealized losses 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 March 31, 2015 are:
	Number of Investments		Fair Value			Unrealized Losses
Less than 12 months
Corporate and asset-backed	664		$	1,251		$	—
Foreign Government	131		582			—
United States Agency	92		259			—
Other	122		492			—
	1,009		$	2,584		$	—
Total
Corporate and asset-backed	671		$	1,263		$	—
Foreign Government	133		589			—
United States Agency	92		259			—
Other	122		493			—
	1,018		$	2,604		$	—

Accumulated_Other_Comprehensiv

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) (Notes)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2015
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Abstract]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)	ACCUMULATED OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)
	Changes in AOCI for the three-month period March 31, 2015:
		Marketable Securities			Pension Plans			Hedges			Financial Statement Translation			Total
	Beginning	$	3		$	(136	)	$	13		$	(134	)	$	(254	)
	OCI before reclassifications	4			15			(1		)	(282		)	(264		)
	Tax (benefit) expense on OCI	(1		)	(3		)	2			—			(2		)
	Reclassifications out of AOCI	(2		)	1			—			—			(1		)
	Net current period OCI	1			13			1			(282		)	(267		)
	Ending	$	4		$	(123	)	$	14		$	(416	)	$	(521	)
	Reclassifications out of AOCI for the three-month periods March 31:
		2015			2014
	Marketable Securities
	Other (income) expense	$	(2	)	$	(2	)
	Tax expense (benefit)	—			—
	Net of tax	(2		)	(2		)
	Pension Plans
	Cost of Sales	2			2
	Tax expense (benefit)	(1		)	—
	Net of tax	1			2
	Hedges
	Cost of Sales	—			(2		)
	Tax expense (benefit)	—			1
	Net of tax	—			(1		)
	Total, net of tax	$	(1	)	$	(1	)

Derivative_Instruments_Derivat

Derivative Instruments Derivative Instruments (Notes)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2015
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract]
Derivative Instruments	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.
	Foreign Exchange Forward Contract Derivatives
	During the period we did not change our hedging strategies or objectives from those disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for 2014.
	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
	March 31, 2015
	Gross Notional Amount	$	414			$	2,990		$	3,404
	Maximum term in days								546
	Fair Value
	Other Current Assets	$	19			$	17		$	36
	Other Noncurrent Assets	2				—			2
	Other Current Liabilities	4				36			40
	Other Noncurrent Liabilities	1				—			1
		$	16			$	(19	)	$	(3	)
	December 31, 2014
	Gross Notional Amount	$	357			$	2,085		$	2,442
	Maximum term in days								546
	Fair Value
	Other Current Assets	$	18			$	12		$	30
	Other Noncurrent Assets	2				—			2
	Other Current Liabilities	—				12			12
		$	20			$	—		$	20
	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 for the three-month periods March 31:
	Recorded In:	2015			2014
	Cost of goods sold	$	—		$	2
	Other income (expense)	(4		)	(6		)
	Total	$	(4	)	$	(4	)
	Pretax gains on derivatives designated as hedges that are expected to be reclassified from AOCI into earnings within the next twelve months is $20. 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 periods presented.
	Forecasted Debt Issuance Interest Rate Risk
	Forward starting interest rate derivative instruments designated as cash flow hedges are used to manage the exposure to interest rate volatility with regard to future issuances of 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 AOCI. 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.
	At March 31, 2015 we had interest rate swaps with a notional amount of $375 designated as forward starting interest rate swaps in anticipation of planned debt issuances. The market value of outstanding interest rate swap agreements at March 31, 2015 was $3, which is recorded in other long-term liabilities with an offsetting amount recorded in AOCI in the consolidated balance sheet. No hedge ineffectiveness was recorded as a result of these cash flow hedges for the three-month period March 31, 2015.
	Fair Value Hedges
	Interest rate derivative instruments designated as fair value hedges are 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 we agree to exchange, at specified intervals, the difference between fixed and floating interest amounts calculated by reference to an agreed-upon notional principal amount.
	At  March 31, 2015 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 March 31, 2015 was a realized gain of $21, which is recorded in other assets with an offsetting realized loss of $21 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-month period March 31, 2015.

Acquisitions

Acquisitions	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2015
Business Combinations [Abstract]
Acquisitions	ACQUISITIONS
	In January 2015 we completed the acquisition of certain assets of CHG Hospital Beds, Inc. (CHG) in an all cash transaction. CHG designs, manufactures and markets a series of low-height hospital beds and related accessories. This acquisition enhances our product offerings within our MedSurg segment. The acquisition is included in the "Other" column in the table below.
	In 2014 we completed the acquisition of certain assets of Small Bone Innovations, Inc. (SBi) for an aggregate purchase price of approximately $358, the acquisition of Berchtold Holding, AG (Berchtold) for an aggregate purchase price of approximately $184 and the acquisition of Patient Safety Technologies, Inc. (PST) for an aggregate purchase price of $120. The acquired net assets of other business acquisitions completed in 2014 are in the "Other" column in the table below.
	For the PST and "Other" acquisitions in 2014, the measurement periods have been completed and revisions to our original estimates include increases to liabilities of $2 and $8 and decreases to goodwill of $2 and $8, respectively. The purchase price allocations for CHG, SBi, Berchtold and "Other" acquisitions in 2014 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 information related to these acquisitions to finalize the recording of identifiable intangible assets, deferred income taxes and goodwill. Goodwill acquired associated with the SBi and CHG acquisitions are deductible for tax purposes.
	The effects of all the acquisitions described above are included in our Consolidated Financial Statements prospectively from the close of the respective acquisition. Pro forma consolidated results of operations for the three-month periods March 31, 2015 and 2014 would not differ significantly as a result of these acquisitions.
	The allocation of the purchase prices of each acquisition to the acquired net assets is as follows:
		2015				2014
		Other				SBi			Berchtold			PST			Other
	Purchase price paid	$	70			$	358		$	184		$	120		$	216
	Tangible assets acquired:
	Cash	—				—			12			—			—
	Inventory	5				34			22			7			5
	Other assets	12				4			38			19			25
	Liabilities	(4		)		(2		)	(45		)	(31		)	(29		)
	Intangible assets:
	Customer relationship	9				19			11			33			5
	Trade name	1				—			7			—			—
	Developed technology & patents	26				82			32			26			115
	Non-compete agreements	2				—			—			—			—
	IPRD	—				—			—			—			2
	Goodwill	19				221			107			66			93
		$	70			$	358		$	184		$	120		$	216
	Weighted-average life of intangible assets	11				12			8			14			12
	Intangible asset amortization expense was $49 and $45 for the three-month periods March 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively.
	The estimated amortization expense for the next five years is:
		Remainder of 2015			2016			2017			2018			2019
	Amortization expense	$	150		$	170		$	168		$	152		$	135

Contingencies_and_Commitments

Contingencies and Commitments	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2015
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Contingencies and Commitments	CONTINGENCIES AND COMMITMENTS
	We are involved in various ongoing proceedings, legal actions and claims arising in the normal course of business, including proceedings related to product, labor and intellectual property, and other matters that are more fully described below. 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, 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 estimated by management, additional expense may be incurred, which could unfavorably affect future operating results. 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 June 2012 we voluntarily recalled our Rejuvenate and ABG II Modular-Neck hip stems and terminated global distribution of these hip products. Product liability lawsuits relating to this voluntary recall have been filed against us. On November 3, 2014 we announced that we had entered into a settlement agreement to compensate eligible United States patients who had revision surgery to replace their Rejuvenate and/or ABG II Modular-Neck hip stem prior to that date. We continue to offer support for recall-related care and reimburse patients who are not eligible to enroll in the settlement program for testing and treatment services, including any necessary revision surgeries. In addition, some lawsuits will remain and we will continue to defend against them. Based on the information that has been received, the actuarially determined range of probable loss to resolve this entire matter on a global basis is estimated to be approximately $1,587 ($1,766 before $179 of third-party insurance recoveries) to $2,510.  In the three-month period March 31, 2015 we recorded charges to earnings of $54 representing the excess of the minimum of the range over the previously recorded reserves. The final outcome of this matter is dependent on many factors that are difficult to predict including the number of enrollees in the settlement program and total awards to them, the number and costs of patients not eligible for the settlement program who seek testing and treatment services and require revision surgery and the number and actual costs to resolve the remaining lawsuits. Accordingly, the ultimate cost to resolve this entire matter globally 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 2013, following a jury trial favorable to us, the trial judge entered a final judgment that among other things, awarded us damages of $76 and ordered Zimmer to pay us enhanced damages. Zimmer appealed this ruling. In December 2014 the Federal Circuit affirmed the damages awarded to us, reversed the order for enhanced damages and remanded the issue of attorney fees to the trial court. We have filed for a petition for rehearing en banc on the issue of enhanced damages. Following the conclusion of the proceedings at the Federal Circuit, each party may seek Supreme Court review. We have not recorded a contingent gain related to this matter.
	In April 2011 Hill-Rom Company, Inc. and affiliated entities (Hill-Rom) brought a lawsuit against us alleging infringement under United States patent laws with respect to nine patents related to electrical network communications for hospital beds.  On March 31, 2015, the court granted the parties’  joint motion to dismiss with prejudice the claims and counterclaims associated with three of these patents.  The case has been stayed with respect to the remaining six patents, which currently are under reexamination by the United States Patent Office.  The ultimate resolution of this matter cannot be predicted and it is not possible at this time for us to estimate any probable loss or range of probable losses.  However, the ultimate result could have a material adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations and cash flows.

Debt_and_Credit_Facilities

Debt and Credit Facilities	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2015
Long-term Debt, Unclassified [Abstract]
Debt And Credit Facilities	DEBT AND CREDIT FACILITIES
	During the three-month period March 31, 2015, we repaid $500 of all our senior unsecured notes that were due on January 15, 2015. Our commercial paper program allows us to have a maximum of $1,250 in commercial paper outstanding, with maturities up to 397 days from the date of issuance. At March 31, 2015 outstanding commercial paper totaled $200, the weighted-average original maturity of the commercial paper outstanding was approximately 40 days and the weighted-average interest rate was 0.21%.
	Certain of our credit facilities require us to comply with financial and other covenants. We were in compliance with all covenants at March 31, 2015. We have lines of credit, issued by various financial institutions, available to fund our day-to-day operating needs. At March 31, 2015 we had $1,279 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 March 31, 2015.
	At March 31, 2015 the total unamortized debt issuance costs incurred in connection with our outstanding notes were $20. The fair value of long-term debt (excluding the interest rate hedge) at March 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014 was $3,352 and $3,811, respectively, based on the quoted interest rates for similar types and amounts of borrowing agreements.

Capital_Stock

Capital Stock	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2015
Class of Stock Disclosures [Abstract]
Capital Stock	CAPITAL STOCK
	In February 2015 we declared a quarterly dividend of $0.345 per share, payable April 30, 2015 to shareholders of record at the close of business on March 31, 2015.
	In March 2015 we announced that our Board of Directors had authorized us to purchase up to $2,000 of our common stock (the 2015 Repurchase program). In 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.
	In the three-month period March 31, 2015, we repurchased 1.4 million shares at a cost of $130 under the 2011 Repurchase Program. At March 31, 2015 the maximum dollar value of shares that may yet be purchased was $2,000 under the 2015 Repurchase program, $405 under the 2012 Repurchase program and $48 under the 2011 Repurchase Program. At March 31, 2015 the maximum dollar value of shares that may be purchased under the authorized Repurchase Programs was $2,453.

Income_Taxes_Notes

Income Taxes (Notes)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2015
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Income Taxes	INCOME TAXES
	Our effective tax rates for the three-month periods March 31, 2015 and 2014 were 40.6% and 34.5% respectively. The increase in the effective tax rate was primarily due to certain discrete items in 2015 related to the establishment of the European regional headquarters and other discrete tax matters.

Segment_Information

Segment Information	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2015
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Segment Information	SEGMENT INFORMATION
	Net sales and net earnings by business segment for the three-month periods March 31 are:
		2015			2014
	Orthopaedics	$	1,023		$	999
	MedSurg	927			886
	Neurotechnology and Spine	429			420
	Net sales	$	2,379		$	2,305
	Orthopaedics	254			249
	MedSurg	163			145
	Neurotechnology and Spine	87			86
	Segment net earnings	$	504		$	480
	Less: other (net of income taxes)
	Corporate and other	(80		)	(76		)
	Acquisition and integration related charges	(13		)	(13		)
	Amortization of intangible assets	(35		)	(31		)
	Restructuring and related charges	(19		)	(10		)
	Recall charges	(49		)	(272		)
	Tax matters	(84		)	(8		)
	Net earnings	$	224		$	70
	Other than assets associated with the acquisitions that are discussed in greater detail in Note 4, there were no significant changes to total assets by segment from information provided in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for 2014.

Fair_Value_Measurements_Tables

Fair Value Measurements (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2015
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Schedule of Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis	Our valuation of our assets and liabilities measured at fair value is:
		March			December
		2015			2014
	Cash and cash equivalents	$	1,674		$	1,795
	Trading marketable securities	80			80
	Level 1 - Assets	$	1,754		$	1,875
	Available-for-sale marketable securities
	Corporate and asset-backed debt securities	1,263			1,525
	Foreign government debt securities	589			726
	United States agency debt securities	259			382
	United States treasury debt securities	423			474
	Certificates of deposit	66			110
	Other	4			12
	Total available-for-sale marketable securities	2,604			3,229
	Foreign currency exchange forward contracts	38			32
	Interest rate swap asset	21			10
	Level 2 - Assets	2,663			3,271
	Total assets measured at fair value	$	4,417		$	5,146
	Deferred compensation arrangements	80			80
	Level 1 - Liabilities	80			80
	Foreign currency exchange forward contracts	41			12
	Interest rate swap liability	3			—
	Level 2 - Liabilities	44			12
	Contingent consideration
	Beginning Balance	48			59
	Losses included in earnings	1			4
	Settlements	—			(15		)
	Balance at the end of the period	49			48
	Level 3 - Liabilities	49			48
	Total liabilities measured at fair value	$	173		$	140
Available-for-sale Securities	The cost and estimated fair value of available-for-sale marketable securities at March 31, 2015 by contractual maturity are:
		Cost			Estimated
					Fair Value
	Due in one year or less	$	403		$	403
	Due after one year through three years	1,893			1,897
	Due after three years	303			304
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation	The total of interest and marketable securities income was $6 and $6 for the three-month period March 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively, and is included in other income (expense).
	A summary of our marketable securities follows:
		March			December
		2015			2014
	Available for Sale Securities:
		Amortized Cost
	Corporate and asset-backed debt securities	$	1,260		$	1,523
	Foreign government debt securities	588			725
	United States agency debt securities	258			382
	United States treasury debt securities	423			474
	Certificates of deposit	66			110
	Other	4			12
		Gross Unrealized Gains
	Corporate and asset-backed debt securities	$	3		$	3
	Foreign government debt securities	1			2
	United States agency debt securities	1			—
	United States treasury debt securities	—			—
	Certificates of deposit	—			—
	Other	—			—
		Gross Unrealized Losses
	Corporate and asset-backed debt securities	$	—		$	(1	)
	Foreign government debt securities	—			(1		)
	United States agency debt securities	—			—
	United States treasury debt securities	—			—
	Certificates of deposit	—			—
	Other	—			—
		Estimated Fair Value
	Corporate and asset-backed debt securities	$	1,263		$	1,525
	Foreign government debt securities	589			726
	United States agency debt securities	259			382
	United States treasury debt securities	423			474
	Certificates of deposit	66			110
	Other	4			12
	Total available-for-sale marketable securities	$	2,604		$	3,229
	Trading marketable securities	80			80
	Total marketable securities	$	2,684		$	3,309
	Reported as:
	Current assets- marketable securities	$	2,589		$	3,205
	Current assets- prepaid expenses and other current assets	15			24
	Noncurrent assets- other	80			80
Investments Classified by Contractual Maturity Date	The fair value and gross unrealized losses 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 March 31, 2015 are:
		Number of Investments		Fair Value			Unrealized Losses
	Less than 12 months
	Corporate and asset-backed	664		$	1,251		$	—
	Foreign Government	131		582			—
	United States Agency	92		259			—
	Other	122		492			—
		1,009		$	2,584		$	—
	Total
	Corporate and asset-backed	671		$	1,263		$	—
	Foreign Government	133		589			—
	United States Agency	92		259			—
	Other	122		493			—
		1,018		$	2,604		$	—

Accumulated_Other_Comprehensiv1

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2015
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Abstract]
Schedule of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block]	Changes in AOCI for the three-month period March 31, 2015:
		Marketable Securities			Pension Plans			Hedges			Financial Statement Translation			Total
	Beginning	$	3		$	(136	)	$	13		$	(134	)	$	(254	)
	OCI before reclassifications	4			15			(1		)	(282		)	(264		)
	Tax (benefit) expense on OCI	(1		)	(3		)	2			—			(2		)
	Reclassifications out of AOCI	(2		)	1			—			—			(1		)
	Net current period OCI	1			13			1			(282		)	(267		)
	Ending	$	4		$	(123	)	$	14		$	(416	)	$	(521	)
Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income	Reclassifications out of AOCI for the three-month periods March 31:
		2015			2014
	Marketable Securities
	Other (income) expense	$	(2	)	$	(2	)
	Tax expense (benefit)	—			—
	Net of tax	(2		)	(2		)
	Pension Plans
	Cost of Sales	2			2
	Tax expense (benefit)	(1		)	—
	Net of tax	1			2
	Hedges
	Cost of Sales	—			(2		)
	Tax expense (benefit)	—			1
	Net of tax	—			(1		)
	Total, net of tax	$	(1	)	$	(1	)

Derivative_Instruments_Tables

Derivative Instruments (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2015
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Derivative Instruments in Statement of Financial Position, Fair Value	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
	March 31, 2015
	Gross Notional Amount	$	414			$	2,990		$	3,404
	Maximum term in days								546
	Fair Value
	Other Current Assets	$	19			$	17		$	36
	Other Noncurrent Assets	2				—			2
	Other Current Liabilities	4				36			40
	Other Noncurrent Liabilities	1				—			1
		$	16			$	(19	)	$	(3	)
	December 31, 2014
	Gross Notional Amount	$	357			$	2,085		$	2,442
	Maximum term in days								546
	Fair Value
	Other Current Assets	$	18			$	12		$	30
	Other Noncurrent Assets	2				—			2
	Other Current Liabilities	—				12			12
		$	20			$	—		$	20
Schedule of Derivatives Instruments Statements of Financial Performance and Financial Position, Location	The net currency exchange rate gains (losses) for both designated and non-designated derivative instruments for the three-month periods March 31:
	Recorded In:	2015			2014
	Cost of goods sold	$	—		$	2
	Other income (expense)	(4		)	(6		)
	Total	$	(4	)	$	(4	)

Acquisitions_Tables

Acquisitions (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2015
Business Combinations [Abstract]
Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition	The allocation of the purchase prices of each acquisition to the acquired net assets is as follows:
		2015				2014
		Other				SBi			Berchtold			PST			Other
	Purchase price paid	$	70			$	358		$	184		$	120		$	216
	Tangible assets acquired:
	Cash	—				—			12			—			—
	Inventory	5				34			22			7			5
	Other assets	12				4			38			19			25
	Liabilities	(4		)		(2		)	(45		)	(31		)	(29		)
	Intangible assets:
	Customer relationship	9				19			11			33			5
	Trade name	1				—			7			—			—
	Developed technology & patents	26				82			32			26			115
	Non-compete agreements	2				—			—			—			—
	IPRD	—				—			—			—			2
	Goodwill	19				221			107			66			93
		$	70			$	358		$	184		$	120		$	216
	Weighted-average life of intangible assets	11				12			8			14			12
Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Future Amortization Expense	The estimated amortization expense for the next five years is:
		Remainder of 2015			2016			2017			2018			2019
	Amortization expense	$	150		$	170		$	168		$	152		$	135

Segment_Information_Tables

Segment Information (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2015
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Sales and Other Financial Information by Business Segment	Net sales and net earnings by business segment for the three-month periods March 31 are:
		2015			2014
	Orthopaedics	$	1,023		$	999
	MedSurg	927			886
	Neurotechnology and Spine	429			420
	Net sales	$	2,379		$	2,305
	Orthopaedics	254			249
	MedSurg	163			145
	Neurotechnology and Spine	87			86
	Segment net earnings	$	504		$	480
	Less: other (net of income taxes)
	Corporate and other	(80		)	(76		)
	Acquisition and integration related charges	(13		)	(13		)
	Amortization of intangible assets	(35		)	(31		)
	Restructuring and related charges	(19		)	(10		)
	Recall charges	(49		)	(272		)
	Tax matters	(84		)	(8		)
	Net earnings	$	224		$	70

Fair_Value_Measurements_Narrat

Fair Value Measurements (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2015	Mar. 31, 2014
Fair Value, Option, Qualitative Disclosures Related to Election [Line Items]
Marketable Securities, Gain (Loss)	$6,000,000	$6,000,000
Asset-backed Securities | Standard & Poor's, A Rating
Fair Value, Option, Qualitative Disclosures Related to Election [Line Items]
Percentage Of Company's Investments With Credit Quality Rating Less Than Single A And A2	1.00%
Fitch, A Rating | Asset-backed Securities
Fair Value, Option, Qualitative Disclosures Related to Election [Line Items]
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 $)	3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
ASSETS
Available-for-sale Securities, Current	$2,589	$3,205
Investments Fair Value Disclosure	4,417	5,146
Business Combination, Contingent Consideration Arrangements, Change in Amount of Contingent Consideration [Abstract]
Balance at the end of the period	173	140
Total liabilities measured at fair value	173	140
Trading Securities
Trading marketable securities	80	80
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1
Cash and cash equivalents	1,674	1,795
ASSETS
Investments Fair Value Disclosure	1,754	1,875
Fair Value Liabilities Measured On Recurring Basis Deferred Compensation Plan Liabilities	80	80
Liabilities
Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure, Recurring	80	80
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 | Available-for-sale Securities
ASSETS
Available-for-sale Securities, Current	2,604	3,229
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 | Available-for-sale Securities | Asset-backed Securities
ASSETS
Available-for-sale Securities, Current	1,263	1,525
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 | Available-for-sale Securities | Foreign Government Debt Securities
ASSETS
Available-for-sale Securities, Current	589	726
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 | Available-for-sale Securities | US Government Agencies Debt Securities
ASSETS
Available-for-sale Securities, Current	259	382
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 | Available-for-sale Securities | US Treasury Securities
ASSETS
Available-for-sale Securities, Current	423	474
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 | Available-for-sale Securities | Certificates of Deposit
ASSETS
Available-for-sale Securities, Current	66	110
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 | Available-for-sale Securities | Other Security Investments
ASSETS
Available-for-sale Securities, Current	4	12
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2
ASSETS
Investments Fair Value Disclosure	2,663	3,271
Liabilities
Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure, Recurring	44	12
Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3
Liabilities
Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure, Recurring	49	48
Business Combination, Contingent Consideration Arrangements, Change in Amount of Contingent Consideration [Abstract]
Beginning Balance	48	59
Losses included in earnings	1	4
Settlements		-15
Balance at the end of the period	49	48
Total liabilities measured at fair value	49	48
Foreign Exchange Contract | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1
ASSETS
Derivative Asset	38	32
Liabilities
Foreign currency exchange forward contracts	41	12
Interest Rate Swap | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1
ASSETS
Derivative Asset	21	10
Liabilities
Derivative Liability	$3	$0

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 $)	Mar. 31, 2015
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Cost due after three years	$403
Cost due after one year through three years	1,893
Cost due after three years	303
Estimated fair value due in one year or less	403
Estimated fair value due after one year through three years	1,897
Estimated fair value due after three years	$304

Fair_Value_Measurements_Market

Fair Value Measurements (Marketable Securities) (Details) (USD $)	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Fair Value, Investments, Entities that Calculate Net Asset Value Per Share [Line Items]
Estimated Fair Value	$2,684	$3,309
Available-for-sale Securities
Fair Value, Investments, Entities that Calculate Net Asset Value Per Share [Line Items]
Estimated Fair Value	2,589	3,205
Current Assets, Prepaid Expenses, And Other Current Assets
Fair Value, Investments, Entities that Calculate Net Asset Value Per Share [Line Items]
Estimated Fair Value	15	24
Other Assets
Fair Value, Investments, Entities that Calculate Net Asset Value Per Share [Line Items]
Estimated Fair Value	80	80
Available-for-sale Securities
Fair Value, Investments, Entities that Calculate Net Asset Value Per Share [Line Items]
Estimated Fair Value	2,604	3,229
Available-for-sale Securities | Asset-backed Securities
Fair Value, Investments, Entities that Calculate Net Asset Value Per Share [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis	1,260	1,523
Available-for-sale Securities, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Gain, before Tax	3	3
Available-for-sale Securities, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Loss, before Tax	0	-1
Estimated Fair Value	1,263	1,525
Available-for-sale Securities | Foreign Government Debt Securities
Fair Value, Investments, Entities that Calculate Net Asset Value Per Share [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis	588	725
Available-for-sale Securities, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Gain, before Tax	1	2
Available-for-sale Securities, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Loss, before Tax	0	-1
Estimated Fair Value	589	726
Available-for-sale Securities | US Government Agencies Debt Securities
Fair Value, Investments, Entities that Calculate Net Asset Value Per Share [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis	258	382
Available-for-sale Securities, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Gain, before Tax	1	0
Available-for-sale Securities, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Loss, before Tax	0	0
Estimated Fair Value	259	382
Available-for-sale Securities | US Treasury Securities
Fair Value, Investments, Entities that Calculate Net Asset Value Per Share [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis	423	474
Available-for-sale Securities, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Gain, before Tax	0	0
Available-for-sale Securities, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Loss, before Tax	0	0
Estimated Fair Value	423	474
Available-for-sale Securities | Certificates of Deposit
Fair Value, Investments, Entities that Calculate Net Asset Value Per Share [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis	66	110
Available-for-sale Securities, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Gain, before Tax	0	0
Available-for-sale Securities, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Loss, before Tax	0	0
Estimated Fair Value	66	110
Available-for-sale Securities | Other Security Investments
Fair Value, Investments, Entities that Calculate Net Asset Value Per Share [Line Items]
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis	4	12
Available-for-sale Securities, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Gain, before Tax	0	0
Available-for-sale Securities, Accumulated Gross Unrealized Loss, before Tax	0	0
Estimated Fair Value	4		12
Trading Securities
Fair Value, Investments, Entities that Calculate Net Asset Value Per Share [Line Items]
Estimated Fair Value	$80	$80

Fair_Value_Measurements_Unreal

Fair Value Measurements (Unrealized Losses And Fair Value Of Investments With Unrealized Losses) (Details) (USD $)	Mar. 31, 2015
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	investment
Available-for-sale, Securities in Unrealized Loss Positions, Qualitative Disclosure, Number of Positions, Less than One Year	1,009
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than Twelve Months, Fair Value	$2,584
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Accumulated Loss	0
Available-for-sale, Securities in Unrealized Loss Positions, Qualitative Disclosure, Number of Positions	1,018
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value	2,604
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Accumulated Loss	0
Asset-backed Securities
Available-for-sale, Securities in Unrealized Loss Positions, Qualitative Disclosure, Number of Positions, Less than One Year	664
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than Twelve Months, Fair Value	1,251
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Accumulated Loss	0
Available-for-sale, Securities in Unrealized Loss Positions, Qualitative Disclosure, Number of Positions	671
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value	1,263
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Accumulated Loss	0
Foreign Government Debt Securities
Available-for-sale, Securities in Unrealized Loss Positions, Qualitative Disclosure, Number of Positions, Less than One Year	131
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than Twelve Months, Fair Value	582
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Accumulated Loss	0
Available-for-sale, Securities in Unrealized Loss Positions, Qualitative Disclosure, Number of Positions	133
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value	589
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Accumulated Loss	0
US Government Agencies Debt Securities
Available-for-sale, Securities in Unrealized Loss Positions, Qualitative Disclosure, Number of Positions, Less than One Year	92
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than Twelve Months, Fair Value	259
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Accumulated Loss	0
Available-for-sale, Securities in Unrealized Loss Positions, Qualitative Disclosure, Number of Positions	92
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value	259
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Accumulated Loss	0
Other Debt Obligations
Available-for-sale, Securities in Unrealized Loss Positions, Qualitative Disclosure, Number of Positions, Less than One Year	122
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than Twelve Months, Fair Value	492
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Less than 12 Months, Accumulated Loss	0
Available-for-sale, Securities in Unrealized Loss Positions, Qualitative Disclosure, Number of Positions	122
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Fair Value	493
Available-for-sale Securities, Continuous Unrealized Loss Position, Accumulated Loss	$0

Accumulated_Other_Comprehensiv2

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 31, 2015	Mar. 31, 2014
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Roll Forward]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax at beginning of period	($254)
Other income (expense), net	-29	-24
Other comprehensive loss	-267	36
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax at end of period	-521
Other income (expense), net	-29	-24
Cost of sales	826	776
Income taxes	153	37
Reclassification from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, Current Period, Net of Tax	-1	-1
Marketable Securities
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Roll Forward]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax at beginning of period	3
Other comprehensive income (OCI)	4
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Before Reclassifications, Tax	-1
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax at end of period	4
Reclassification from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, Current Period, Net of Tax	-2	-2
Accumulated Defined Benefit Plans Adjustment [Member]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Roll Forward]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax at beginning of period	-136
Other comprehensive income (OCI)	15
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Before Reclassifications, Tax	-3
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax at end of period	-123
Reclassification from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, Current Period, Net of Tax	1	2
Hedges
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Roll Forward]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax at beginning of period	13
Other comprehensive income (OCI)	-1
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Before Reclassifications, Tax	2
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax at end of period	14
Reclassification from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, Current Period, Net of Tax	0	-1
Financial Statement Translation
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Roll Forward]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax at beginning of period	-134
Other comprehensive income (OCI)	-282
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Before Reclassifications, Tax	0
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax at end of period	-416
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Roll Forward]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax at beginning of period	-254
Other comprehensive income (OCI)	-264
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Before Reclassifications, Tax	-2
Other comprehensive loss	-267
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax at end of period	-521
Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income | Marketable Securities
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Roll Forward]
Other income (expense), net	-2
Other comprehensive loss	1
Other income (expense), net	-2
Income taxes	0	0
Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income | Accumulated Defined Benefit Plans Adjustment [Member]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Roll Forward]
Other income (expense), net	1
Other comprehensive loss	13
Other income (expense), net	1
Income taxes	-1	0
Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income | Hedges
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Roll Forward]
Other income (expense), net	0
Other comprehensive loss	1
Other income (expense), net	0
Income taxes	0	1
Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income | Financial Statement Translation
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Roll Forward]
Other income (expense), net	0
Other comprehensive loss	-282
Other income (expense), net	0
Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income | Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Roll Forward]
Other income (expense), net	-1
Other comprehensive loss	-267
Other income (expense), net	-1
Other Income (expense) | Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income | Marketable Securities
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Roll Forward]
Other income (expense), net	-2	-2
Other income (expense), net	-2	-2
Cost of Sales | Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income | Accumulated Defined Benefit Plans Adjustment [Member]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Roll Forward]
Cost of sales	2	2
Cost of Sales | Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income | Hedges
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Roll Forward]
Cost of sales	$0	($2)

Derivative_Instruments_Narrati

Derivative Instruments (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2015	Mar. 31, 2014
Foreign Exchange Contract
Notional Amount	$3,404,000,000	$2,442,000,000
Foreign Exchange Contract | Designated as Hedging Instrument
Cash Flow Hedge Gain (Loss) to be Reclassified within Twelve Months	20,000,000
Notional Amount	414,000,000	357,000,000
Senior Unsecured Notes 3.375% due 2024
Senior Unsecured Notes	600,000,000
Other Noncurrent Liabilities | Interest Rate Swap
Interest Rate Cash Flow Hedge Liability at Fair Value	3,000,000
Other Noncurrent Assets | Interest Rate Swap
Foreign currency transaction losses	21,000,000
Long-term Debt | Interest Rate Swap
Foreign currency transaction losses	-21,000,000
Cash Flow Hedging | Interest Rate Swap | Designated as Hedging Instrument
Notional Amount	375,000,000
Fair Value Hedging | Interest Rate Swap | Designated as Hedging Instrument
Notional Amount	$500,000,000

Derivative_Instruments_Forward

Derivative Instruments (Forward Currency Exchange Contracts) (Details) (Foreign Exchange Contract, USD $)	3 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 31, 2015	Mar. 31, 2014
Derivative [Line Items]
Notional Amount	$3,404	$2,442
Maximum Term (Days)	546 days	546 days
Derivative, Fair Value, Net	-3	20
Designated as Hedging Instrument
Derivative [Line Items]
Notional Amount	414	357
Derivative, Fair Value, Net	16	20
Not Designated as Hedging Instrument
Derivative [Line Items]
Notional Amount	2,990	2,085
Derivative, Fair Value, Net	-19	0
Other Current Assets
Derivative [Line Items]
Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Gross Asset	36	30
Other Current Assets | Designated as Hedging Instrument
Derivative [Line Items]
Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Gross Asset	19	18
Other Current Assets | Not Designated as Hedging Instrument
Derivative [Line Items]
Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Gross Asset	17	12
Other Noncurrent Assets
Derivative [Line Items]
Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Gross Asset	2	2
Other Noncurrent Assets | Designated as Hedging Instrument
Derivative [Line Items]
Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Gross Asset	2	2
Other Noncurrent Assets | Not Designated as Hedging Instrument
Derivative [Line Items]
Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Gross Asset	0	0
Other Current Liabilities
Derivative [Line Items]
Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Gross Liability	40	12
Other Current Liabilities | Designated as Hedging Instrument
Derivative [Line Items]
Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Gross Liability	4	0
Other Current Liabilities | Not Designated as Hedging Instrument
Derivative [Line Items]
Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Gross Liability	36	12
Other Noncurrent Liabilities
Derivative [Line Items]
Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Gross Liability	1
Other Noncurrent Liabilities | Designated as Hedging Instrument
Derivative [Line Items]
Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Gross Liability	1
Other Noncurrent Liabilities | Not Designated as Hedging Instrument
Derivative [Line Items]
Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Gross Liability	$0

Derivative_Instruments_Derivat1

Derivative Instruments Derivative Instruments (Income Statement Location) (Details) (Foreign Exchange Contract, Not Designated as Hedging Instrument, USD $)	3 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 31, 2015	Mar. 31, 2014
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Foreign Currency Transaction Gain (Loss), before Tax	($4)	($4)
Cost of Sales
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Foreign Currency Transaction Gain (Loss), before Tax	0	2
Other Income (expense)
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Foreign Currency Transaction Gain (Loss), before Tax	($4)	($6)

Acquisitions_Narrative_Details

Acquisitions (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2015	Mar. 31, 2014
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Amortization of intangible assets	$49,000,000	$45,000,000
Other
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Business Combination, Provisional Information, Initial Accounting Incomplete, Adjustment, Financial Liabilities	8,000,000
Business Combination, Provisional Information, Initial Accounting Incomplete, Adjustment, Goodwill	8,000,000
Small Bone Innovations
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Intangible assets:	358,000,000
Berchtold
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Intangible assets:	184,000,000
PST
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Intangible assets:	120,000,000
Business Combination, Provisional Information, Initial Accounting Incomplete, Adjustment, Financial Liabilities	2,000,000
Business Combination, Provisional Information, Initial Accounting Incomplete, Adjustment, Goodwill	$2,000,000

Acquisitions_Acquisitions_Allo

Acquisitions Acquisitions (Allocation Of The Preliminary Purchase Price To The Acquired Net Assets Of The Trauson Acquisition (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Goodwill	4,099	4,186
Other Intangible Assets [Member]
Tangible assets acquired:	11 years	12 years
Small Bone Innovations
Purchase price paid		358
Cash		0
Inventory		34
Other assets		4
Liabilities		-2
Goodwill		221
Assets and liabilities acquired, net		358
Tangible assets acquired:		12 years
Berchtold
Purchase price paid		184
Cash		12
Inventory		22
Other assets		38
Liabilities		-45
Goodwill		107
Assets and liabilities acquired, net		184
Tangible assets acquired:		8 years
PST
Purchase price paid		120
Cash		0
Inventory		7
Other assets		19
Liabilities		-31
Goodwill		66
Assets and liabilities acquired, net		120
Tangible assets acquired:		14 years
Other
Purchase price paid	70	216
Cash	0	0
Inventory	5	5
Other assets	12	25
Liabilities	-4	-29
Goodwill	19	93
Assets and liabilities acquired, net	70	216
Customer relationship | Small Bone Innovations
Intangible assets:		19
Customer relationship | Berchtold
Intangible assets:		11
Customer relationship | PST
Intangible assets:		33
Customer relationship | Other
Intangible assets:	9	5
Trade name | Small Bone Innovations
Intangible assets:		0
Trade name | Berchtold
Intangible assets:		7
Trade name | PST
Intangible assets:		0
Trade name | Other
Intangible assets:	1	0
Developed technology & patents | Small Bone Innovations
Intangible assets:		82
Developed technology & patents | Berchtold
Intangible assets:		32
Developed technology & patents | PST
Intangible assets:		26
Developed technology & patents | Other
Intangible assets:	26	115
Noncompete Agreements | Small Bone Innovations
Intangible assets:		0
Noncompete Agreements | Berchtold
Intangible assets:		0
Noncompete Agreements | PST
Intangible assets:		0
Noncompete Agreements | Other
Intangible assets:	2	0
IPRD | Small Bone Innovations
Intangible assets:		0
IPRD | Berchtold
Intangible assets:		0
IPRD | PST
Intangible assets:		0
IPRD | Other
Intangible assets:	0	2

Acquisitions_Future_Amortizati

Acquisitions - Future Amortization Expense (Details) (USD $)	Mar. 31, 2015
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Business Combinations [Abstract]
Remainder of 2015	$150
2016	170
2017	168
2018	152
2019	$135

Contingencies_and_Commitments_

Contingencies and Commitments (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended		0 Months Ended	1 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2010	Mar. 31, 2015	Apr. 30, 2011
			patent	patent	patent
Rejuvenate and ABG II Voluntary Recall
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Loss Contingency, Estimate of Possible Loss	$1,766			1,766
Insurance Recoveries	179
Estimated Litigation Liability	54			54
Zimmer Product Infringement
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Gain Contingency, Patents Allegedly Infringed upon, Number			3
Loss Contingency, Damages Awarded, Value		76
Hill-Rom Company
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Loss Contingency, Patents Allegedly Infringed, Number				6	9
Loss Contingency, Patents Found Not Infringed, Number					3
Minimum | Rejuvenate and ABG II Voluntary Recall
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Loss Contingency, Estimate of Possible Loss	1,587			1,587
Maximum | Rejuvenate and ABG II Voluntary Recall
Loss Contingencies [Line Items]
Loss Contingency, Estimate of Possible Loss	$2,510			2,510

Debt_and_Credit_Facilities_Nar

Debt and Credit Facilities (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Debt Instrument, Maturity	397 days
Commercial Paper, at Carrying Value	$200
Commercial Paper, weighted average interest rate	0.00%
Line of Credit Facility, Remaining Borrowing Capacity	1,279
Long-term debt, weighted-average interest rate	290.00%
Unamortized Debt Issuance Expense	20
Debt Instrument, Fair Value Disclosure	3,352	3,811
3.00% senior unsecured notes, due January 15, 2015
Repayments of Unsecured Debt	500
Commercial paper
Debt Instrument, Maturity	40 days
Maximum | Commercial paper
Commercial paper	$1,250

Capital_Stock_Narrative_Detail

Capital Stock (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended
Share data in Millions, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 31, 2015	Mar. 31, 2013
Cash dividends declared, per share of common stock	$0.35
Document Period End Date	31-Mar-15
Stock Repurchased and Retired During Period, Shares	1.4
Repurchase and retirement of 1.3 million shares of common stock	$130,000,000
Stock Repurchase Program, Remaining Authorized Repurchase Amount	2,453,000,000
2015 $2.0 Billion Repurchase Agreement
Stock Repurchase Program, Authorized Amount	2,000,000,000
Stock Repurchased and Retired During Period, Shares	1.4
Repurchase and retirement of 1.3 million shares of common stock	130,000,000
Stock Repurchase Program, Remaining Authorized Repurchase Amount	2,000,000,000
2012 $405.0 Million Repurchase Agreement
Stock Repurchase Program, Authorized Amount		405,000,000
Stock Repurchase Program, Remaining Authorized Repurchase Amount	405,000,000
2011 $500.0 Million Repurchase Agreement
Stock Repurchase Program, Authorized Amount		500,000,000
Stock Repurchase Program, Remaining Authorized Repurchase Amount	$48,000,000

Income_Taxes_Details

Income Taxes (Details)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2015	Mar. 31, 2014
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, at Federal Statutory Income Tax Rate, Percent	40.60%	34.50%

Segment_Information_Sales_And_

Segment Information (Sales And Other Financial Information By Business Segment) (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 31, 2015	Mar. 31, 2014
Net sales	$2,379	$2,305
Segment net earnings	406	131
Acquisition and integration related charges	13	13
Amortization of intangible assets	-35	-31
Restructuring and related charges	-19	-10
Recall charges	-49	-272
Tax matters	-84	-8
Net earnings	224	70
Operating Segments
Net sales	2,379	2,305
Segment net earnings	504	480
Orthopaedics
Net sales	1,023	999
Segment net earnings	254	249
MedSurg
Net sales	927	886
Segment net earnings	163	145
Neurotechnology and Spine
Net sales	429	420
Segment net earnings	87	86
Corporate and Other
Segment net earnings	($80)	($76)