Thoratec 10-K 18 Feb 14 2013 FY Annual report Financial data

Document_and_Entity_Informatio

Document and Entity Information (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 28, 2013	Feb. 07, 2014	Jun. 28, 2013
Document and Entity Information	'	'	'
Entity Registrant Name	'THORATEC CORP	'	'
Entity Central Index Key	'0000350907	'	'
Document Type	'10-K	'	'
Document Period End Date	28-Dec-13	'	'
Amendment Flag	'false	'	'
Current Fiscal Year End Date	'--12-28	'	'
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer	'Yes	'	'
Entity Voluntary Filers	'No	'	'
Entity Current Reporting Status	'Yes	'	'
Entity Filer Category	'Large Accelerated Filer	'	'
Entity Public Float	'	'	$1,613,105,509
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding	'	56,778,328	'
Document Fiscal Year Focus	'2013	'	'
Document Fiscal Period Focus	'FY	'	'

CONSOLIDATED_BALANCE_SHEETS

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (USD $)	Dec. 28, 2013	Dec. 29, 2012
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Current assets:	'	'
Cash and cash equivalents	$139,099	$101,322
Short-term available-for-sale investments	166,691	148,426
Receivables, net of allowances of $2,163 in 2013 and $2,127 in 2012	71,418	70,471
Inventories	60,293	47,100
Deferred tax assets	15,161	10,626
Income tax receivable	5,733	11,950
Prepaid expenses and other assets	7,272	7,162
Total current assets	465,667	397,057
Property, plant and equipment, net	55,163	45,892
Goodwill	205,764	194,182
Purchased intangible assets, net	36,403	33,571
Long-term available-for-sale investments	4,234	10,607
Other long-term assets	24,476	17,055
Total Assets	791,707	698,364
Current liabilities:	'	'
Accounts payable	17,599	19,959
Accrued compensation	22,759	25,409
Contingent liabilities, current portion	6,962	4,220
Other accrued liabilities	27,001	19,098
Total current liabilities	74,321	68,686
Long-term deferred tax liability	2,224	2,780
Other long-term liabilities	12,105	12,323
Contingent liabilities, non-current portion (Notes 2 and 7)	36,384	17,832
Total Liabilities	125,034	101,621
Commitments and contingencies (Note 7)	'	'
Shareholders' equity:	'	'
Common shares: no par, authorized 100,000; issued and outstanding 56,904 in 2013 and 57,584 in 2012	'	'
Additional paid-in-capital	621,589	577,448
Retained earnings	57,587	34,364
Accumulated other comprehensive loss:	-12,503	-15,069
Total Shareholders' Equity	666,673	596,743
Total Liabilities and Shareholders' Equity	$791,707	$698,364

CONSOLIDATED_BALANCE_SHEETS_Pa

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (Parenthetical) (USD $)	Dec. 28, 2013	Dec. 29, 2012
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS	'	'
Receivables, allowances (in dollars)	$2,163	$2,127
Common shares, par value (in dollars per share)	$0	$0
Common shares, authorized	100,000	100,000
Common shares, issued	56,904	57,584
Common shares, outstanding	56,904	57,584

CONSOLIDATED_STATEMENTS_OF_OPE

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 28, 2013	Dec. 29, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS	'	'	'
Product sales	$502,821	$491,654	$422,713
Cost of product sales, excluding impairment of intangible assets	163,552	150,037	135,062
Impairment of intangible assets	'	50,242	'
Gross profit	339,269	291,375	287,651
Operating expenses:	'	'	'
Selling, general and administrative	144,274	127,984	107,177
Research and development	97,447	87,729	66,314
Total operating expenses	241,721	215,713	173,491
Income from operations	97,548	75,662	114,160
Other income (expense):	'	'	'
Interest expense	-4	-3	-4,651
Interest income and other	2,211	1,658	2,362
Income before taxes	99,755	77,317	111,871
Income tax expense	26,429	21,154	39,296
Net income from continuing operations	73,326	56,163	72,575
Net loss from discontinued operations	'	'	-1,031
Net income	$73,326	$56,163	$71,544
Net income (loss) per common share-Basic:	'	'	'
Continuing operations (in dollars per share)	$1.28	$0.96	$1.23
Discontinued operations (in dollars per share)	'	'	($0.02)
Net income (in dollars per share)	$1.28	$0.96	$1.21
Net income (loss) per common share-Diluted:	'	'	'
Continuing operations (in dollars per share)	$1.26	$0.94	$1.20
Discontinued operations (in dollars per share)	'	'	($0.01)
Net income (in dollars per share)	$1.26	$0.94	$1.19
Shares used to compute net income per common share:	'	'	'
Basic (in shares)	57,332	58,563	58,777
Diluted (in shares)	58,324	59,580	62,524

CONSOLIDATED_STATEMENTS_OF_COM

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 28, 2013	Dec. 29, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME	'	'	'
Net income	$73,326	$56,163	$71,544
Unrealized gain (loss) on investments (net of taxes of $399, $445, $3, for 2013, 2012 and 2011, respectively)	1,677	523	-4
Foreign currency translation adjustments (net of taxes of $0, $926, $5,526 for 2013, 2012, and 2011, respectively)	889	2,441	-14,004
Total other comprehensive income (loss)	2,566	2,964	-14,008
Comprehensive income	$75,892	$59,127	$57,536

CONSOLIDATED_STATEMENTS_OF_COM1

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (Parenthetical) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 28, 2013	Dec. 29, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME	'	'	'
Unrealized gains on investments, taxes	$339	$445	$3
Foreign currency translation adjustments, taxes	$0	$926	$5,526

CONSOLIDATED_STATEMENTS_OF_SHA

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY (USD $)	Total	Common Shares	Additional Paid-in Capital	Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit)	Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	USD ($)		USD ($)	USD ($)	USD ($)
BALANCE at Jan. 01, 2011	$621,360	'	$606,782	$18,603	($4,025)
BALANCE (in shares) at Jan. 01, 2011	'	58,571,000	'	'	'
Increase (Decrease) in Shareholders' Equity	'	'	'	'	'
Exercise of common stock options for cash	11,486	'	11,486	'	'
Exercise of common stock options for cash (in shares)	'	687,000	'	'	'
Issuance of common shares under Employee Stock Purchase Plan	3,112	'	3,112	'	'
Issuance of common shares under Employee Stock Purchase Plan (in shares)	'	118,000	'	'	'
Issuance of restricted stock units (in shares)	'	209,000	'	'	'
Tax benefit related to employees' and directors' stock plans	1,767	'	1,767	'	'
Repurchase of common shares, net	-103,882	'	-37,925	-65,957	'
Repurchase of common shares, net (in shares)	'	-3,615,000	'	'	'
Share-based compensation	16,101	'	16,101	'	'
Issuance of common shares in connection with redemption and conversion of senior subordinated convertible notes	82,711	'	82,711	'	'
Issuance of common shares in connection with redemption and conversion of senior subordinated convertible notes (in shares)	'	2,398,000	'	'	'
Reacquisition of equity component of senior subordinated convertible notes	-105,741	'	-105,741	'	'
Unrealized loss on available-for-sale investments	-4	'	'	'	-4
Foreign currency translation adjustment	-14,004	'	'	'	-14,004
Net income	71,544	'	'	71,544	'
BALANCE at Dec. 31, 2011	584,450	'	578,293	24,190	-18,033
BALANCE (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2011	'	58,368,000	'	'	'
Increase (Decrease) in Shareholders' Equity	'	'	'	'	'
Exercise of common stock options for cash	10,067	'	10,067	'	'
Exercise of common stock options for cash (in shares)	'	566,000	'	'	'
Issuance of common shares under Employee Stock Purchase Plan	3,508	'	3,508	'	'
Issuance of common shares under Employee Stock Purchase Plan (in shares)	'	119,000	'	'	'
Issuance of restricted stock units (in shares)	'	327,000	'	'	'
Tax benefit related to employees' and directors' stock plans	3,388	'	3,388	'	'
Repurchase of common shares, net	-66,748	'	-20,759	-45,989	'
Repurchase of common shares, net (in shares)	'	-1,796,000	'	'	'
Settlement of equity forward contract	-18,750	'	-18,750	'	'
Share-based compensation	21,701	'	21,701	'	'
Unrealized loss on available-for-sale investments	523	'	'	'	523
Foreign currency translation adjustment	2,441	'	'	'	2,441
Net income	56,163	'	'	56,163	'
BALANCE at Dec. 29, 2012	596,743	'	577,448	34,364	-15,069
BALANCE (in shares) at Dec. 29, 2012	'	57,584,000	'	'	'
Increase (Decrease) in Shareholders' Equity	'	'	'	'	'
Exercise of common stock options for cash	16,686	'	16,686	'	'
Exercise of common stock options for cash (in shares)	'	759,000	'	'	'
Issuance of common shares under Employee Stock Purchase Plan	4,386	'	4,386	'	'
Issuance of common shares under Employee Stock Purchase Plan (in shares)	'	144,000	'	'	'
Issuance of restricted stock units (in shares)	'	553,000	'	'	'
Tax benefit related to employees' and directors' stock plans	2,367	'	2,367	'	'
Repurchase of common shares, net	-75,309	'	-25,206	-50,103	'
Repurchase of common shares, net (in shares)	'	-2,136,000	'	'	'
Settlement of equity forward contract	18,750	'	18,750	'	'
Share-based compensation	27,158	'	27,158	'	'
Unrealized loss on available-for-sale investments	1,677	'	'	'	1,677
Foreign currency translation adjustment	889	'	'	'	889
Net income	73,326	'	'	73,326	'
BALANCE at Dec. 28, 2013	$666,673	'	$621,589	$57,587	($12,503)
BALANCE (in shares) at Dec. 28, 2013	'	56,904,000	'	'	'

CONSOLIDATED_STATEMENTS_OF_CAS

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 28, 2013	Dec. 29, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Cash flows from continuing operating activities:	'	'	'
Net Income	$73,326	$56,163	$71,544
Add back: loss from discontinued operations	'	'	1,031
Net income from continuing operations	73,326	56,163	72,575
Adjustments to reconcile net income from continuing operations to net cash provided by operating activities:	'	'	'
Depreciation and amortization	17,962	19,688	18,235
Impairment of intangible assets	'	50,242	'
Impairment of fixed assets	1,970	'	0
Investment premium amortization, net	3,592	2,209	3,505
Allowance (benefit) for bad debt	-40	-92	1,085
Change in fair value of contingent consideration	6,714	'	'
Non-cash interest income (expense) and other	-2,537	-435	269
Non-cash interest expense	'	'	2,815
Tax benefit related to stock options	2,367	3,388	1,767
Share-based compensation expense	26,997	21,692	16,062
Excess tax benefits from share-based compensation	-2,377	-3,249	-1,662
Loss on disposal of assets	78	180	127
Change in deferred taxes, net	-9,934	-27,277	-3,073
Changes in assets and liabilities (net of acquisition of business):	'	'	'
Receivables	-353	-10,692	-1,480
Inventories	-14,805	5,201	6,660
Other current and non-current assets	369	-302	-2,108
Accounts payable	-2,245	6,343	-1,602
Income taxes, net	3,901	2,243	4,828
Other current and non-current liabilities	4,783	14,236	-5,894
Operating cash flows provided by continuing operations	109,768	139,538	112,109
Operating cash flows used in discontinued operations	'	'	-1,398
Cash provided by operating activities	109,768	139,538	110,711
Cash flows from continuing investing activities:	'	'	'
Purchases of available-for-sale investments	-165,507	-181,045	-281,832
Sales and maturities of available-for-sale investments	149,324	183,767	524,287
Acquisition of a business, net of cash acquired	-13,000	-3,050	-109,975
Purchases of property, plant and equipment	-8,700	-10,715	-6,213
Cash provided by (used in) investing activities	-37,883	-11,043	126,267
Cash flows from continuing financing activities:	'	'	'
Proceeds from stock option exercises	16,686	10,067	11,486
Proceeds from stock issued under employee stock purchase plan	4,386	3,508	3,112
Excess tax benefits from share-based compensation	2,377	3,249	1,662
Repurchase and retirement of common shares	-53,814	-85,498	-103,882
Contingent consideration payment	-4,220	-1,518	'
Redemption of senior subordinated convertible notes	'	'	-164,429
Cash used in financing activities	-34,585	-70,192	-252,051
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents	477	358	847
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents	37,777	58,661	-14,226
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of fiscal year	101,322	42,661	56,887
Cash and cash equivalents at end of fiscal year	139,099	101,322	42,661
Supplemental disclosure of consolidated cash flow information:	'	'	'
Cash paid for income taxes	30,333	42,890	35,002
Cash paid for interest	4	3	1,685
Supplemental disclosure of consolidated non-cash investing and financing activities:	'	'	'
Extinguishment of senior subordinated convertible notes with issuance of common stock	'	'	82,711
Transfers of equipment from inventory	1,994	3,644	2,064
Purchases of property, plant and equipment through accounts payable and other accrued liabilities	1,093	1,300	345
Repurchases and retirement of common shares through other accrued liabilities	2,745	'	'
Acquisitions of DuraHeart II (2013) and Levitronix Medical (2011)	'	'	'
Contingent consideration included in other accrued liabilities	'	'	1,518
Contingent consideration included in contingent liabilities, non-current portion	$18,800	'	$22,052

Operations_and_Summary_of_Sign

Operations and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 28, 2013
Operations and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies	'
Operations and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies	'
	Note 1. Operations and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
	Basis of Presentation
	Thoratec Corporation (referred to in these Notes as "we," "our," "us," or the "Company"), is headquartered in Pleasanton, California and is a manufacturer of mechanical circulatory support products for use by patients with heart failure. Thoratec develops, manufactures and markets products that are used by physicians and hospitals for cardiac assist applications. Thoratec conducts business both domestically and internationally.
	We report on a 52 or 53 week fiscal year, which ends on the Saturday closest to December 31. The fiscal year ended December 31, 2011, ("Fiscal 2011") included 52 weeks, the fiscal year ended December 29, 2012, ("Fiscal 2012") included 52 weeks, and the fiscal year ended December 28, 2013, ("Fiscal 2013") included 52 weeks. Our consolidated financial statements include our wholly owned subsidiaries: Thoratec LLC and Continuum Services, Inc., based in the United States, Thoratec Europe Limited, based in the United Kingdom, and Thoratec Switzerland GmbH, based in Switzerland. All intercompany transactions and balances have been eliminated in consolidation.
	The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements, and the reported amounts of net sales and expenses during the reported periods. Actual results could differ materially from those estimates and assumptions.
	Cash and Cash Equivalents
	Cash equivalents are defined as short-term, highly liquid investments with original maturities of 90 days or less at the date of purchase, consisting of money market funds and/or municipal bonds. The fair value of these investments (which approximates cost) is classified at Level 1 or Level 2. Refer to Note 3 for further discussion.
	Investments
	Our available for sale investments consist primarily of municipal bonds, variable demand notes, corporate bonds, commercial paper, certificate of deposit, and auction rate securities. These are reported as short-term available-for-sale investments on the consolidated balance sheets, with the exception of auction rate securities, which are classified as long-term available-for-sale investments.
	Our investments in available-for-sale securities are reported at fair value. Unrealized gains and losses related to changes in the fair value of securities are recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income, net of tax, on our consolidated balance sheets. Changes in the fair value of available-for-sale securities impact the net income only when such securities are sold or an other-than-temporary impairment is recognized. Realized gains and losses on the sale of securities are determined by specific identification of each security's cost basis. We regularly review our investment portfolio to determine if any security is other-than-temporarily impaired, which would require us to record an impairment charge in the period any such determination is made. In making this judgment, we evaluate, among other things, the duration and extent to which the fair value of a security is less than its cost, the financial condition of the issuer and any changes thereto, and our intent to sell, or whether it is more likely than not that we will be required to sell the security before recovery of its amortized cost basis. Our assessment on whether a security is other-than-temporarily impaired could change in the future due to new developments or changes in assumptions related to any particular security.
	Fair Value Measurement
	The carrying amounts of certain of our financial instruments including cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable, accounts payable and accrued liabilities approximate fair value due to their short maturities. Short-term investments are comprised of available-for-sale securities, which are carried at fair value. Other non-current assets, which include auction rate securities, deferred compensation plan assets, and marketable equity securities are carried at fair value. Foreign exchange contracts are stated at fair value based on prevailing financial market information.
	Concentration of Credit Risks and Certain Other Risks
	We sell our products primarily to large hospitals and distributors. Credit is extended to our customers; however credit risks are mitigated by our credit valuation process and reasonably short collection terms. We generally do not require collateral or other security to support accounts receivable and maintain allowances for potential credit losses. To date, credit losses have not been significant. Uncollectible accounts, if any, are written off against the allowance when it is deemed that a customer account is uncollectible.
	We place cash and cash equivalents in the custody of financial institutions that management believes are of high credit quality, which at times, may be in excess of the amount insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation. We also have short and long-term investments in municipal bonds, variable demand notes and auction rate securities, backed by U.S. Government or private insurers, which can be subject to certain credit risk. However, we mitigate the risks by investing in high-grade instruments, limiting our exposure to any one issuer, and monitoring the ongoing creditworthiness of the financial institutions and issuers.
	We operate internationally and have significant operations and assets in the United Kingdom and Switzerland. We remain exposed to changes in law (including changes that result from international treaties and accords) that could adversely affect our results, such as increases in taxes or government fees; price controls; changes in health, environmental and medical regulations or other laws that increase our cost of compliance or reduce or delay available business opportunities. We are subject to certain risks and uncertainties and believe that changes in any of the following areas could have a material adverse effect on future financial position or results of operations: counterparty credit risk in the current market environment; the ability to receive and maintain U.S. Food and Drug Administration ("FDA") and foreign regulatory authorities approval to manufacture, market and sell our products; our ability to adequately and timely address issues raised by FDA inspections; the ability to direct and manage current and future growth and physician acceptance of our current or future products; our reliance on specialized suppliers; the ability to manufacture products on an efficient and timely basis and at a reasonable cost and in sufficient volume, including the ability to obtain timely deliveries of parts from suppliers; our ability to identify and correct quality issues in a timely manner and at a reasonable cost; new product development and introduction, including FDA approval and market receptiveness; the ability to protect our proprietary technologies or an infringement by us of others' patents; the number of heart transplants conducted; our dependence upon distributors and any changes made to our method of distribution; competition from other products; worldwide demand for circulatory support and graft products and the management of risks inherent in selling in foreign countries; foreign currency fluctuations; the long and variable sales and deployment cycle of our mechanical circulatory support ("MCS") products; the willingness of third party payors to cover and provide appropriate levels of reimbursement for our products; the ability to realize the full value of our intangible assets; product liability or other claims; the ability to attract and retain talented employees; stock price volatility due to general economic conditions or future issuances and sales of our stock; the integration of any current and future acquisitions of companies or technologies; the occurrence of catastrophic disasters; the ability to maintain profitability; claims relating to the handling, storage or disposal of hazardous chemicals and biomaterials; changes in legal and accounting regulations and standards; changes in tax regulations; and limitations on potential acquisitions and price of our common stock.
	Inventories
	Inventories are valued at the lower of cost (first-in, first-out) or market. Products may become obsolete due to market or economic conditions, technology changes, new product introductions or changes in strategic direction and may require estimates that include uncertain elements. Based on management's estimate, adjustments to reduce the value of inventory to its net realizable value, if required, are made for estimated excess or obsolete inventory or lower of cost of market.
	Property, Plant, and Equipment
	Property, plant, and equipment are stated at cost, net of accumulated depreciation. Depreciation is computed using the straight-line method based on estimated useful lives of two to 30 years. Leasehold improvements are amortized over the lesser of the useful life or the remaining term of the lease. Property, plant, and equipment also include certain medical devices rented to customers. Depreciation expense of all rental equipment included in our rental program is recognized ratably over two to three years and is recorded in cost of product sales.
	Valuation of Long-Lived Assets and Purchased Intangible Assets
	We evaluate the carrying value of long-lived assets, including purchased intangible assets (subject to amortization), whenever events, changes in business circumstances or our planned use of long-lived assets indicate that their carrying amounts may not be fully recoverable or that their useful lives are no longer appropriate. If these facts and circumstances exist, we assess for recovery by comparing the carrying values of long-lived assets with their future undiscounted net cash flows. If the comparison indicates that impairment exists, long-lived assets are written down to their respective fair value based on discounted cash flows. Significant management judgment is required in the forecast of future operating results that was used in the preparation of expected undiscounted cash flows. Product sales from our Thoratec Paracorporeal Ventricular Assist Device ("PVAD"), and Thoratec Implantable Ventricular Assist Device ("IVAD") product lines were $29.5 million and $28.1 million in fiscal 2010 and 2011, respectively, and significantly declined to $19.0 million in fiscal 2012 as a result of recent changes in the market in which these products compete. Accordingly, we assessed for recovery the associated purchased intangible assets with their future undiscounted net cash flows in the fourth quarter of 2012. The comparison resulted in the existence of impairment, and accordingly the purchased intangible assets were written down to the fair value totaling $12.6 million, resulting in an impairment charge of $50.2 million in 2012. Refer to Note 6 for further information. No impairment indicators were present for purchased intangible assets, including intangibles associated with the PVAD and IVAD product lines, in 2013 and 2011.
	We also evaluate the carrying value of intangible assets (not subject to amortization) related to in-process research and development ("IPR&D") assets, which are considered to be indefinite-lived until the completion or abandonment of the associated research and development efforts. Accordingly, amortization of the IPR&D assets will not occur until the product reaches commercialization. During the period the assets are considered indefinite-lived, they will be tested for impairment on an annual basis, as well as between annual tests if we become aware of any events occurring or changes in circumstances that would indicate that the fair values of the IPR&D assets are less than their carrying amounts. If and when development is complete, which generally occurs when regulatory approval to market the product is obtained, the associated IPR&D assets would be deemed definite-lived and would then be amortized based on their estimated useful lives at that point in time. If the related project is terminated or abandoned, we may have an impairment related to the IPR&D asset, calculated as the excess of their carrying value over fair value. No impairment of IPR&D assets was identified based on our annual assessment in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2013. There were no IPR&D assets in fiscal 2012 and 2011.
	Goodwill
	We test goodwill for impairment on an annual basis in the fourth quarter of each fiscal year or more frequently if we believe indicators of impairment exist. The performance of the test involves a two-step process. The first step requires comparing the fair value of the reporting unit to its net book value, including goodwill. A potential impairment exists if the fair value of the reporting unit is lower than its net book value. The second step of the process is only performed if a potential impairment exists, and it involves comparing the aggregate fair value of the reporting unit's net assets other than goodwill to the fair value of the reporting unit as a whole. Goodwill is considered impaired, and an impairment charge is recorded, if the excess of the fair value of the reporting unit over the fair value of the net assets is less than the carrying value of goodwill. We found no impairment as a result of our fiscal 2013, 2012, and 2011 annual impairment reviews, as the fair value of our reporting unit was in excess of the carrying value.
	Deferred Compensation Plan
	We established a non-qualified, unfunded deferred compensation plan for certain management employees and our Board of Directors. Amounts deferred and contributed under the deferred compensation plan are credited or charged with the performance of investment options offered under the plan as elected by the participants. The liability for compensation deferred under this plan is included in "Other long-term liabilities" on our consolidated balance sheets. We manage the risk of changes in the fair value of the liability for deferred compensation by electing to match the liability under the plan with an investment that offsets a substantial portion of our exposure. The investments associated with the deferred compensation plan are included in "Other long-term assets" on our consolidated balance sheets at the cash surrender value of our corporate owned life insurance policies and the fair value of the mutual fund investments. Changes in the cash surrender value of our corporate owned life insurance policies and the fair value of mutual fund investments are included in our consolidated statements of operations for all periods presented.
	Revenue Recognition and Accounts Receivable
	We recognize revenue from product sales to customers when persuasive evidence of an arrangement exists, the product has been delivered or service has been performed, the selling price is fixed or determinable, collection is reasonably assured, and there are no further obligations to customers. Delivery of the product is considered to have occurred generally when shipped. Sales from products are not subject to rights of return and, historically, actual sales returns have not been significant. We sell products through our direct sales force and through distributors. Sales through distributors are recognized as revenue upon sale to the distributor as these sales are considered to be final and no right of return or price protection exists. We recognize sales of certain products to first-time customers when it has been determined that the customer has the ability to use the products.
	Accounts receivable are recorded at the invoiced amount and do not bear interest. We maintain an allowance for doubtful accounts for estimated losses resulting from the inability of our customers to pay amounts due. The allowance for doubtful accounts is management's best estimate of the amount of probable credit losses in existing accounts receivable. We determine the allowance based on specific identification and historical write-off experience. Past due balances are reviewed individually for collectability. Account balances are charged off against the allowance when we believe it is probable the receivable will not be recovered.
	Product Warranty
	The sales of our products generally include a limited one-year warranty on product quality. The estimated cost of product warranty claims is accrued at the time the sale is recognized, based on historical experience and other factors. For new product introductions in which we may not have any historical experience, we make our estimates for warranty claims based on a combination of historical experience of other similar products sold and qualitative and quantitative information. While we believe that historical experience provides a reliable basis for estimating such warranty cost, unforeseen quality issues or component failure rates could result in future costs in excess of such estimates, or alternatively, improved quality and reliability in our products could result in actual expenses that are below those currently estimated.
	The table below represents the changes in the warranty provision included in "Other accrued liabilities" on the consolidated balance sheets. The change in estimates was not significant for each of the fiscal years 2013, 2012, and 2011.
		2013			2012			2011
		(in thousands)
	Balance, beginning of the fiscal year	$	2,212		$	2,452		$	3,057
	Additions		10,464			1,492			1,922
	Settlements		(2,777	)		(1,732	)		(2,527	)
	Balance, end of the fiscal year	$	9,899		$	2,212		$	2,452
	Advertising
	All advertising costs are expensed as incurred and are included in selling, general and administrative in the consolidated statements of operations. Advertising expenses were $5.8 million, $5.9 million, and $4.3 million for fiscal 2013, 2012, and 2011, respectively.
	Research and Development Expense
	Research and development costs are charged to expense when incurred. Major components of research and development expenses consist of personnel costs, including salaries and benefits, and regulatory and clinical costs associated with our compliance with FDA regulations. Research and development costs are largely project driven, and the level of spending depends on the level of project activity planned and subsequently approved and conducted.
	Share-Based Compensation
	Share-based compensation expense is measured based on the grant-date fair value of the share-based awards. We recognize share-based compensation expense for the portion of the award that is expected to vest over the requisite service period for those awards. We develop an estimate of the number of share-based awards which will ultimately vest, primarily based on historical experience. The estimated forfeiture rate is reassessed periodically throughout the requisite service period. Such estimates are revised if they differ materially from actual forfeitures. As required, the forfeiture estimates will be adjusted to reflect actual forfeitures when an award vests. In addition, expected volatility is based on a combination of historical volatility trends and market-based implied volatility. We use the Black-Scholes option pricing model as the method for determining the estimated grant-date fair value of stock options and purchase rights under the ESPP. The Black-Scholes option pricing model requires the use of highly subjective and complex assumptions, which determine the fair value of share-based awards, including the option's expected term and the price volatility of the underlying stock.
	For restricted stock units, share-based compensation expense is calculated based on the fair value of our stock at the grant date.
	Income Taxes
	Income taxes are recorded under the asset and liability method, which requires the recognition of deferred tax assets and liabilities for the expected future tax consequences of events that have been included in the consolidated financial statements. Under this method, deferred tax assets and liabilities are determined based on the differences between the consolidated financial statements and tax basis of assets and liabilities using enacted tax rates in effect for the year in which the differences are expected to reverse. The effect of a change in tax rates on deferred tax assets and liabilities is recognized in income in the period that includes the enactment date.
	We record net deferred tax assets to the extent we believe these assets will more likely than not be realized. In making such determination, we consider all available positive and negative evidence including future taxable income and ongoing prudent and feasible tax planning strategies. In the event we were to determine that we would be able to realize our deferred tax assets in the future in excess of our net recorded amount, an adjustment to the valuation allowance for the deferred tax asset would increase net income in the period such determination was made. Likewise, should we determine that we would not be able to realize all or part of our net deferred tax asset in the future, an adjustment to the valuation allowance for the deferred tax asset would be charged to net income in the period such determination was made.
	We record uncertain tax positions in accordance with accounting standards on the basis of a two-step process whereby (1) we determine whether it is more likely than not that the tax positions will be sustained based on the technical merits of the position and (2) those tax positions that meet the more-likely-than-not recognition threshold, we recognize the largest amount of tax benefit that is greater than 50% likely to be realized upon ultimate settlement with the related tax authority.
	We recognize interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits within the income tax expense line in the accompanying consolidated statements of operations. Accrued interest and penalties are included within the related tax liability line in the consolidated balance sheets.
	Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
	Other comprehensive income (loss) includes net income, unrealized gains and losses on available-for-sale investments and foreign currency translation adjustments from continuing operations. There are no unrealized gains and losses on available-for-sale investments and foreign currency translation adjustments from discontinued operations.
	Foreign Currency Translation
	All assets and liabilities of our non-U.S. operations are translated into U.S. dollars at the period-end exchange rates and the resulting translation adjustments are included in other comprehensive income. The functional currencies of our non-U.S. operations are generally designated in their respective local currencies. The period-end translation of the non-functional currency assets and liabilities at the period-end exchange rates result in foreign currency gains and losses, which are included in "interest income and other" in the consolidated statement of operations.

Acquisition_of_DuraHeart_II

Acquisition of DuraHeart II	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 28, 2013
Acquisition of DuraHeart II	'
Acquisition of DuraHeart II	'
	Note 2. Acquisition of DuraHeart II
	On June 30, 2013 ("acquisition date"), we acquired certain assets (the "Purchased Assets") and assumed certain liabilities from Terumo Corporation ("Terumo") related to the DuraHeart II Left Ventricular Assist System product line ("DuraHeart II") previously under development by Terumo. Under the terms of the acquisition, we made an upfront cash payment to Terumo of $13.0 million, and will be obligated to make potential future milestone payments, based on regulatory approvals and product sales, of up to $43.5 million. Terumo also maintains the right to repurchase the Purchased Assets in the event that we do not fulfill certain conditions at various dates starting in August 2016. As part of the agreement, we hired a team of Terumo employees. Additionally, we entered into a distribution partnership with Terumo, in which Terumo will commercialize DuraHeart II in Japan and potentially other parts of Asia, if and when local regulatory approvals are obtained. DuraHeart II is an ultra-compact, full-support, centrifugal flow chronic ventricular assist system that is designed to use a unique technology foundation known as "force balance" suspension. The device is designed to use magnetic forces, balanced by hydrodynamic support, to achieve consistent gaps across the operating range of the pump, independent of pump speed. The primary reasons for the acquisition were to diversify the technology platforms within our research and development portfolio and to apply our resources and expertise in mechanical circulatory support to advance DuraHeart II through product development and clinical trials.
	The DuraHeart II acquisition was accounted for as a business combination by us. In connection with the acquisition, we recorded $2.0 million of acquisition-related costs, which were recognized in our consolidated statement of operations in fiscal 2013 within operating expenses. We also recorded $9.9 million of goodwill, equal to the amount by which the purchase consideration exceeded the fair value of the Purchased Assets. This goodwill was allocated to our sole operating segment (Cardiovascular) and is deductible for U.S. income tax purposes. The operating results of the DuraHeart II product line from the date of acquisition, including zero revenue and $4.4 million net loss, are included in our consolidated statement of operations for fiscal 2013.
	We will be obligated to pay potential post-closing cash milestone payments of $5.5 million and $10.5 million upon Conformité Européene ("CE") Mark approval in Europe and FDA approval, respectively, for the DuraHeart II device currently under development (collectively referred to as the "regulatory milestones"). Additional milestone payments totaling $27.5 million will become payable by us upon reaching various commercial sale milestones after the regulatory approvals are obtained (referred to as the "commercial sales milestones"). The fair value of the combined contingent consideration due upon achievement of the regulatory milestones and the commercial sales milestones was estimated to be $18.8 million at the acquisition date and has been recorded as a non-current liability, because such contingent consideration is expected to be settled no earlier than 2016.
	Total preliminary purchase price consideration was as follows (in thousands):
	Cash paid at the acquisition closing date (June 30, 2013)	$	13,000
	Estimated fair value of contingent consideration		18,800
	Total estimated purchase price	$	31,800
	We determined the initial fair value of the contingent consideration in connection with the regulatory and commercial sales milestones using various estimates, including probabilities of success, discount rates and the estimated amount of time until the conditions of the milestone payments are met. This fair value measurement was based on significant inputs not observable in the market, representing a Level 3 measurement within the fair value hierarchy (see Note 3 for more information about fair value measurements). The key assumptions used to determine the fair value of the contingent consideration at the acquisition date in connection with the regulatory milestones included a 5.3% discount rate and probability adjusted milestone payment date ranges from July 2016 to January 2020. The key assumptions used to determine the fair value of contingent consideration at the acquisition date in connection with the commercial sales milestones included a 20.0% discount rate and probability-weighted expected milestone payment date ranges from July 2019 to January 2029, based on the aggregate number of commercial units sold (starting at the 500th unit sold to the 10,000th unit sold). From the acquisition date to December 28, 2013, the fair value of the contingent consideration increased by $2.3 million as a result of changes in the probabilities of possible outcome and accretion expense associated with the passage of time. The increase was reported as research and development expense and selling, general and administrative expense totaling $0.9 million and $1.4 million, respectively, in the consolidated statement of operations for the year ended December 28, 2013.
	Preliminary Purchase Price Allocation as of the acquisition date is summarized as follows (in thousands):
	Property, plant and equipment	$	8,900
	Identifiable intangible assets:
	Favorable lease contract		600
	IPR&D asset		12,400
	Goodwill		9,900
	Total estimated purchase price consideration		31,800
	Less: Contingent consideration		18,800
	Cash paid at the acquisition closing	$	13,000
	We recorded an IPR&D asset of $12.4 million, which represents an estimate of the fair value of the in-process technology related to the DuraHeart II device. The fair value of the IPR&D asset was determined using the multi-period excess earnings method which is equal to the present value of the incremental after-tax cash flows attributable to that intangible asset, discounted at 22.5% based on our best estimate of a market participant's after-tax weighted average cost of capital (WACC).
	We recorded equipment totaling $8.9 million based on the fair value at the acquisition date. Of that amount, $8.1 million is related to certain equipment that is expected to be primarily used in the production of DuraHeart II units in anticipation of future clinical trials and throughout the commercialization of the product. Depreciation will commence upon production of the DuraHeart II units.
	Pro forma financial information (unaudited)
	The following unaudited pro forma information presents the combined results of operations for fiscal 2013 and 2012 as if we had completed the DuraHeart II acquisition at the beginning of 2012. The pro forma financial information is provided for comparative purposes only and is not necessarily indicative of what actual results would have been had the acquisition occurred on the date indicated, nor do they give effect to synergies, cost savings, fair market value adjustments, immaterial depreciation expense and other changes expected to result from the acquisition. Accordingly, the pro forma financial results do not purport to be indicative of consolidated results of operations as of the date hereof, for any period ended on the date hereof, or for any other future date or period.
		Fiscal 2013		Fiscal 2012
		(in thousands)
	Product sales	$	502,821	$	491,654
	Income before taxes		85,086		43,645
	Net income		62,543		31,703
	Actual 2013 acquisition related transaction costs of $2.0 million were excluded from the 2013 pro forma results below and included in the 2012 pro forma results as if these costs were incurred in the 2012 period. All other adjustments to the pro forma results in 2013 and 2012 were not significant.

Fair_Value_Measurements_and_Fa

Fair Value Measurements and Fair Value of Financial Instruments	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 28, 2013
Fair Value Measurements and Fair Value of Financial Instruments	'
Fair Value Measurements and Fair Value of Financial Instruments	'
	Note 3. Fair Value Measurements and Fair Value of Financial Instruments
	Our financial assets and liabilities carried at fair value are primarily comprised of investments in money market funds, certificates of deposit, municipal and corporate bonds, commercial paper, variable demand notes, auction rate securities, forward contracts, certain investments held as assets under the deferred compensation plan, marketable equity securities, and the contingent consideration in connection with acquisitions. The fair value accounting guidance requires that assets and liabilities be carried at fair value and classified in one of the following three categories:
	Level 1: Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities that we have the ability to access
	Level 2: Observable market based inputs or unobservable inputs that are corroborated by market data such as quoted prices, interest rates and yield curves
	Level 3: Inputs that are unobservable data points that are not corroborated by market data
	We review the fair value hierarchy classification on a quarterly basis. Changes in the ability to observe valuation inputs may result in a reclassification of levels of certain securities within the fair value hierarchy. We recognize transfers into and out of levels within the fair value hierarchy in the period in which the actual event or change in circumstances that caused the transfer occurs. There were no transfers between Level 1, Level 2, and Level 3 during fiscal 2013, 2012, and 2011.
	The following table represents the fair value hierarchy for our financial assets and financial liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis:
		Total Fair			Quoted Prices in			Significant			Significant
		Value			Active Markets			Other			Unobservable
					(Level 1)			Observable			Inputs
								Inputs			(Level 3)
								(Level 2)
		(in thousands)
	At December 28, 2013:
	Cash equivalents:
	Money market funds	$	97,200		$	97,200		$	—		$	—
	Commercial paper		13,899			—			13,899			—
	Short-term investments:
	Municipal bonds		142,486			—			142,486			—
	Variable demand notes		6,700			—			6,700			—
	Corporate bonds		5,507			—			5,507			—
	Commercial paper		9,998			—			9,998			—
	Certificate of deposit		2,000			—			2,000			—
	Prepaid expenses and other assets:
	Foreign exchange contracts		592			—			592			—
	Long-term investments:
	Auction rate securities		4,234			—			—			4,234
	Other long-term assets:
	Investments included in our deferred compensation plan		1,700			—			1,700			—
	Marketable equity securities		4,019			4,019			—			—
	Other accrued liabilities:
	Foreign exchange contracts		156			—			156			—
	Contingent consideration (current and long-term portions)	$	43,346		$	—		$	—		$	43,346
		Total Fair			Quoted Prices in			Significant			Significant
		Value			Active Markets			Other			Unobservable
					(Level 1)			Observable			Inputs
								Inputs			(Level 3)
								(Level 2)
		(in thousands)
	At December 29, 2012:
	Assets
	Cash equivalents:
	Money market funds	$	59,230		$	59,230		$	—		$	—
	Commercial paper		4,998			—			4,998			—
	Municipal bonds		3,045			—			3,045			—
	Corporate bonds		380			—			380			—
	Short-term investments:
	Municipal bonds		107,533			—			107,533			—
	Variable demand notes		21,330			—			21,330			—
	Corporate bonds		12,258			—			12,258			—
	Commercial paper		5,299			—			5,299			—
	Certificate of deposit		2,006			—			2,006			—
	Prepaid expenses and other assets:
	Foreign exchange contracts		16			—			16			—
	Long-term investments:
	Auction rate securities		10,607			—			—			10,607
	Other long-term assets:
	Investments included in our deferred compensation plan		1,731			—			1,731			—
	Marketable equity securities		2,602			2,602			—			—
	Other accrued liabilities
	Foreign exchange contracts		380			—			380			—
	Contingent consideration (current and long-term portions)	$	22,052		$	—		$	—		$	22,052
	Financial assets and liabilities are considered Level 2 when their fair values are determined using inputs that are observable in the market or can be derived principally from or corroborated by observable market data such as pricing for similar securities, recently executed transactions, cash flow models with yield curves, and benchmark securities. Our Level 2 financial assets and liabilities include short-term investments, foreign exchange instruments and certain of our deferred compensation plan securities. In addition, Level 2 financial instruments are valued using comparisons to like-kind financial instruments and models that use readily observable market data as their basis.
Financial assets and liabilities are considered Level 3 when their fair values are determined using pricing models, discounted cash flow methodologies, or similar techniques, and at least one significant model assumption or input is unobservable. Level 3 financial assets and liabilities include the following:
Auction rate securities—Due to limited market activity the determination of fair value requires significant judgment or estimation. The auction rate securities were valued using a discounted cash-flow model over a five-year period based on estimated interest rates, the present value of future principal payments, and interest payments discounted at rates considered to reflect the current market conditions and the credit quality of auction rate securities.
Contingent consideration—The fair value of the contingent consideration related to the acquisition of the medical business of Levitronix LLC (Levitronix Medical) in August 2011 requires significant management judgment or estimation and is calculated using the income approach, using various revenue assumptions and applying a probability to each outcome. The fair value of the contingent consideration is remeasured at the end of each reporting period with the change in fair value recorded within operating expense in our consolidated statements of operations. Actual amounts paid may differ from the obligations recorded. The accretion of interest expense was not significant for all periods presented. Refer to Note 2 for a discussion of the fair value of the contingent consideration associated with the DuraHeart II acquisition.
Available-for-sale investments are carried at fair value and are included in the tables above under short- and long-term investments. The aggregate market value, cost basis, and gross unrealized gains and losses of available-for-sale investments by major security type are as follows:
	Amortized			Gross			Gross			Fair
	Cost			Unrealized			Unrealized			Value
				Gains			Losses
	(in thousands)
At December 28, 2013:
Short-term investments:
Municipal bonds	$	142,321		$	178		$	(13	)	$	142,486
Variable demand notes		6,700			—			—			6,700
Corporate bonds		5,500			7			—			5,507
Commercial paper		9,998			—			—			9,998
Certificate of deposit		2,000			—			—			2,000
Total short-term investments	$	166,519		$	185		$	(13	)	$	166,691
Long-term investments:
Auction rate securities	$	4,900		$	—		$	(666	)	$	4,234
Other long-term assets:
Marketable equity securities		2,996			1,023			—			4,019
Total long-term	$	7,896		$	1,023		$	(666	)	$	8,253
At December 29, 2012:
Short-term investments:
Municipal bonds	$	107,416		$	136		$	(19	)	$	107,533
Variable demand notes		21,330			—			—			21,330
Corporate bonds		12,244			17			(3	)		12,258
Commercial paper		5,298			1			—			5,299
Certificate of deposit		2,000			6			—			2,006
Total short-term investments	$	148,288		$	160		$	(22	)	$	148,426
Long-term investments:
Auction rate securities	$	11,900		$	—		$	(1,293	)	$	10,607
Other long-term assets:
Marketable equity securities(A)		2,996			—			(394	)		2,602
Total long-term	$	14,896		$	—		$	(1,687	)	$	13,209
(A)
As of December 29, 2012, our available-for-sale equity securities have been in a continuous loss position less than 12 months.
As of December 28, 2013, we owned $4.9 million face amount of auction rate securities classified as long-term available-for-sale investments. The assets underlying these investments are student loans backed by the State of New Jersey and by private insurers and are rated between A and BBB. Historically, these securities have provided liquidity through a Dutch auction process that resets the applicable interest rate periodically every seven to 35 days. These auctions began to fail starting in February 2008. The face amount of these securities will not be recovered until future auctions for these securities are successful, a secondary market is established, these securities are called for redemption, or they are paid at maturity.
As of December 28, 2013, we had recorded an estimated cumulative unrealized loss of $0.7 million ($0.4 million, net of tax) related to the temporary impairment of the auction rate securities, which was included in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) within the consolidated shareholders' equity. In addition, our management reviews impairments and credit loss associated with our investments, including auction rate securities, to determine the classification of the impairment as "temporary" or "other-than-temporary" and to bifurcate the credit and non-credit component of an other-than-temporary impairment event. We (i) do not intend to sell any of the auction rate securities prior to maturity at an amount below the original purchase value; (ii) intend to hold the investment to recovery and, based on a more-likely-than-not probability assessment, will not be required to sell the security before recovery; and (iii) deem that it is not probable that we will receive less than 100% of the principal and accrued interest from the issuer. Therefore, 100% of the impairment was charged to other comprehensive income (loss). In fiscal 2013, we liquidated at par value $7.0 million of our auction rate securities. We will continue to liquidate investments in auction rate securities as opportunities arise.
If the issuers of the auction rate securities are unable to successfully complete future auctions and their credit ratings deteriorate, then we may in the future be required to record the other-than-temporary impairment charges to the consolidated statement of operations. It could conceivably take until the final maturity of the underlying notes (up to 30 years) to realize the investments' fair value.
Our deferred compensation plan includes our corporate owned life insurance policies and mutual fund investments. The underlying mutual fund investments are deemed trading securities. The mutual fund investments' fair value and the cash surrender value of our corporate-owned life insurance policies are classified in the consolidated balance sheets in "Other long-term assets." The aggregate value of our deferred compensation plan assets as of December 28, 2013 and December 29, 2012 was $5.2 million and $4.2 million, respectively. The unrealized gain before tax from the change in the value of the deferred compensation plan was $0.7 million, $0.4 million, and $0.2 million in fiscal 2013, 2012, and 2011, respectively.
The amortized cost and fair value of available-for-sale debt investments, by contractual maturity, were as follows:
	Amortized			Fair
	Cost			Value
	(in thousands)
At December 28, 2013:
Maturing within 1 year	$	138,451		$	138,572
Maturing after 1 year through 5 years		28,068			28,119
Short-term available-for-sale investments		166,519			166,691
Maturing after 5 years		4,900			4,234
	$	171,419		$	170,925
At December 29, 2012:
Maturing within 1 year	$	107,621		$	107,665
Maturing after 1 year through 5 years		40,667			40,761
Short-term available-for-sale investments		148,288			148,426
Maturing after 5 years		11,900			10,607
	$	160,188		$	159,033
The following table provides a roll forward of the fair value, as determined by Level 3 inputs, of the auction rate securities for fiscal 2013 and 2012:
	Auction rate
	securities
	2013			2012
	(in thousands)
Balance, beginning of the fiscal year	$	10,607		$	16,090
Settlements at par		(7,000	)		(7,000	)
Change in unrealized gains (loss) included in other comprehensive income		627			1,517
Balance, end of the fiscal year	$	4,234		$	10,607
We continue to monitor the market for auction rate securities and consider its impact (if any) on the fair value of our investments. If the current market conditions deteriorate further, or the anticipated recovery in fair values does not occur, we may be required to record additional unrealized losses in other comprehensive income or other-than-temporary impairment charges to the consolidated statements of operations in future periods.
The following table provides a roll forward of the fair value, as determined by Level 3 inputs, of contingent consideration (current and long-term portions) for fiscal 2013 and 2012:
	Contingent
	consideration
	2013			2012
	(in thousands)
Balance, beginning of the fiscal year	$	22,052		$	23,570
Payments		(4,220	)		(1,518	)
Additions (See Note 2)		18,800			—
Change in fair value		6,714			—
Balance, end of the fiscal year	$	43,346		$	22,052
The following table presents quantitative information about the inputs and valuation methodologies used for our fair value measurements classified in Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy at December 28, 2013:
	Fair Value at			Valuation Methodology		Significant Unobservable Input		Weighted Average
	December 28,							(range, if applicable)
	2013
	(in thousands)
Auction rate securities	$	4,234		Discounted cash flow		Discount rate		1.74%
						Market credit spread		2.86%
						Liquidity factor		0.00%
Levitronix Medical Contingent consideration	$	22,253				Annual Revenue
				Multiple outcome				$42.8 million ($31.5 million to
				discounted cash flow				$49.9 million)
						Discount rate		1.10% (0.8% to 1.51%)
						Probability of occurrence		20% (2.5% to 50%)
DuraHeart II Contingent consideration	$	21,093		Multiple outcome discounted cash flow		Milestone dates		2016 to 2029
						Discount rate		5.3% to 20.0%
						Probability of occurrence		1% to 74%
Auction Rate Securities
The significant unobservable inputs used in the fair value measurement of the auction rate securities are the weighted average discount rate, market credit spread and liquidity factor. A significant increase (decrease) in the discount rate in isolation could result in a significantly higher (lower) fair value measurement, whereas a significant increase (decrease) in the market credit spread and liquidity factor in isolation could result in a significantly lower (higher) fair value measurement. Although the discount rate as compared to the market credit spread and liquidity factors are not directly related, they will generally move in opposite directions.
The fair value of auction rate securities is calculated on a quarterly basis by senior management based on a collaborative effort of the corporate treasury and accounting groups. To assess the reasonableness of the fair value measurement, management compares its fair value measurement to the values calculated by independent third parties.
Contingent Consideration
The estimated fair value of the liability for contingent consideration represents revenue and milestone targets related to our Levitronix Medical and DuraHeart II acquisitions, respectively. The fair value of the liability is determined using a discounted cash flow methodology with significant inputs that include projected revenue, discount rate and percentage probability of occurrence for the Levitronix Medical contingent consideration; and regulatory milestone targets, commercial milestones targets, discount rate and percent probability of occurrence of these milestones for the DuraHeart II contingent consideration. A significant increase (decrease) in the projected revenue in isolation could result in a significantly higher (lower) fair value measurement; a significant delay (acceleration) in the projected regulatory milestone achievement date in isolation could result in a significantly lower (higher) fair value measurement; a significant increase (decrease) in the discount rate in isolation could result in a significantly lower (higher) fair value measurement; and the changes in the probability of occurrence between the outcomes in isolation could result in a significantly lower (higher) fair value measurement.
The fair value of the contingent consideration is calculated on a quarterly basis by management based on a collaborative effort of our regulatory, research and development, operations, finance and accounting groups. Potential valuation adjustments are made as additional information becomes available, including the progress toward achieving revenue and milestone targets as compared to initial projections, the impact of market competition, and changes in actual and projected product mix and average selling price, with the impact of such adjustments being recorded in the consolidated statement of operations. In fiscal 2013, we recorded a remeasurement adjustment to the Levitronix and DuraHeart II contingent consideration in the amount of $4.4 million and $2.3 million, respectively. No adjustment was recorded in fiscal 2012 and 2011.
Assets and Liabilities That Are Measured at Fair Value on a Nonrecurring Basis
Non-financial assets such as goodwill, intangible assets, and property, plant, and equipment are evaluated for impairment annually or when indicators of impairment exist. In fiscal 2013, we recorded an impairment charge of $2.0 million related to certain equipment. In fiscal 2012, we recorded an impairment charge of $50.2 million for certain intangible assets used in connection with our PVAD and IVAD product line—refer to Note 6 for further information. No impairment charge for non-financial assets was recorded in fiscal 2011. Non-financial assets such as identified intangibles acquired in connection with our acquisitions are measured at fair value using Level 3 inputs, which include discounted cash flow methodologies, or similar techniques, when there is limited market activity and the determination of fair value requires significant judgment or estimation.

Foreign_Exchange_Instruments

Foreign Exchange Instruments	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 28, 2013
Foreign Exchange Instruments	'
Foreign Exchange Instruments	'
	Note 4. Foreign Exchange Instruments
	We utilize foreign currency forward exchange contracts and options with recognized financial institutions to manage our exposure to the impact of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates on certain intercompany balances and foreign currency denominated sales and purchase transactions. We do not use derivative financial instruments for speculative or trading purposes. These forward contracts are not designated as hedging instruments for accounting purposes. Principal hedged currencies include the Euro, British Pound Sterling, and U.S. Dollar. The periods of these forward contracts range up to six months and the notional amounts are intended to be consistent with changes in the underlying exposures. We intend to exchange foreign currencies for U.S. Dollars at maturity.
	Total gross notional amounts for outstanding derivatives instruments were as follows at the end of the fiscal year:
		2013			2012
	Forward contracts:
	Euro (sell)	€	20.2 million		€	13.9 million
	British Pound Sterling (sell)	£	1.3 million		£	1.8 million
	U.S. Dollar (sell)	$	23.5 million		$	5.3 million
	U.S. Dollar (buy)	$	60.0 million		$	73.5 million
	The following table shows the derivative instruments measured at gross fair value reported on the consolidated balance sheets:
		At December 28, 2013						At December 29, 2012
		Prepaid expenses			Other accrued			Prepaid expenses			Other accrued
		and other assets			liabilities			and other assets			liabilities
		(in thousands)
	Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments (forward contracts)	$	592		$	156		$	16		$	380
	The following table shows the effect of derivative instruments not designated as hedging instruments and foreign currency transactions gains and losses, which were included in "Interest income and other" in the consolidated statements of operations in fiscal years:
		2013			2012			2011
		(in thousands)
	Foreign currency exchange gain (loss) on foreign contracts	$	(1,480	)	$	(1,921	)	$	305
	Foreign currency transactions gain (loss)	$	1,814		$	2,046		$	(657	)

Balance_Sheet_Information

Balance Sheet Information	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 28, 2013
Balance Sheet Information	'
Balance Sheet Information	'
	Note 5. Balance Sheet Information
	The following tables provide details of selected consolidated balance sheets items as of the end of the fiscal year:
	Inventories consisted of the following at the end of each fiscal year:
		2013			2012
		(in thousands)
	Finished goods	$	22,885		$	15,087
	Work-in-process		13,739			11,020
	Raw materials		23,669			20,993
	Total	$	60,293		$	47,100
	Property, plant and equipment, net consisted of the following at the end of each fiscal year:
		2013			2012
		(in thousands)
	Land, building and improvements	$	20,594		$	20,543
	Equipment and capitalized software		61,383			46,290
	Furniture and leasehold improvements		22,458			20,933
	Total property, plant and equipment		104,435			87,766
	Less accumulated depreciation and amortization		(49,272	)		(41,874	)
	Total property, plant and equipment, net	$	55,163		$	45,892
	Depreciation expense in fiscal years 2013, 2012, and 2011 was $7.7 million, $8.6 million, and $8.5 million, respectively.
	Changes in accumulated other comprehensive loss by component of each fiscal year are as follows:
		Foreign currency			Unrealized			Total
		items(A)			gain (loss) on
					available-for-sale
					securities(A)
		(in thousands)
	Balance at December 31, 2011	$	(16,369	)	$	(1,664	)	$	(18,033	)
	Other comprehensive gain before reclassification		2,441			523			2,964
	Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss		—			—			—
	Net current period other comprehensive gain		2,441			523			2,964
	Balance at December 29, 2012		(13,928	)		(1,141	)		(15,069	)
	Other comprehensive gain before reclassification		889			1,677			2,566
	Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss		—			—			—
	Net current period other comprehensive gain		889			1,677			2,566
	Balance at December 28, 2013	$	(13,039	)	$	536		$	(12,503	)
	(A)
	All amounts are net of tax.

Goodwill_and_Purchased_Intangi

Goodwill and Purchased Intangible Assets, net	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 28, 2013
Goodwill and Purchased Intangible Assets, net	'
Goodwill and Purchased Intangible Assets, net	'
	Note 6. Goodwill and Purchased Intangible Assets, net
	The carrying amount of goodwill and the changes in those balances of each fiscal year are as follows:
		2013		2012
		(in thousands)
	Balance, beginning of the fiscal year	$	194,182	$	191,193
	Goodwill additions		9,900		690
	Foreign currency translation impact		1,682		2,299
	Balance, end of fiscal year	$	205,764	$	194,182
	In June 2013, we recorded goodwill of $9.9 million related to the DuraHeart II acquisition which is deductible for U.S. tax purposes. Refer to Note 2 for additional information.
	In November 2012, we acquired certain assets from CFK Cardiac Technologies LLC. This acquisition qualified as a business combination under the accounting standards and was integrated into our existing operating segment: Cardiovascular group. Through this acquisition, we will be able to manage the ongoing provision of driveline dressing supplies and replacement accessories for patients living on HeartMate II support after discharge from the hospital. Total purchase price consideration was $3.4 million. We recorded $0.3 million to tangible assets acquired, $2.4 million to identifiable intangible assets (weighted average life of approximately 5 years), and $0.7 million to goodwill, which is deductible for U.S. tax purposes. Acquisition related costs were not significant.
	Based on our annual impairment review in the fourth quarter of fiscal years 2013, 2012, and 2011, we concluded that goodwill was not impaired in any of the years presented.
	Intangible assets (net of accumulated amortization and impairment) were as follows:
		At December 28, 2013
		Gross		Accumulated			Accumulated			Net
		Amount		Amortization			Impairment			Amount
		(in thousands)
	Intangible assets subject to amortization:
	Patents and trademarks	$	43,532	$	(34,755	)	$	—		$	8,777
	Core technology		37,180		(22,986	)		(12,642	)		1,552
	Developed technology		128,073		(81,635	)		(37,600	)		8,838
	Pre-existing license agreement		2,300		(794	)		—			1,506
	Customer based relationships and other		7,246		(4,043	)		—			3,203
	Foreign currency translation impact		127		—			—			127
			218,458		(144,213	)		(50,242	)		24,003
	Intangible assets not yet subject to amortization:
	IPR&D (see Note 2)		12,400		—			—			12,400
	Total purchased intangible assets	$	230,858	$	(144,213	)	$	(50,242	)	$	36,403
		At December 29, 2012
		Gross		Accumulated			Accumulated			Net
		Amount		Amortization			Impairment			Amount
		(in thousands)
	Intangible assets subject to amortization:
	Patents and trademarks	$	43,475	$	(33,463	)	$	—		$	10,012
	Core technology		37,180		(21,388	)		(12,642	)		3,150
	Developed technology		127,940		(76,379	)		(37,600	)		13,961
	Pre-existing license agreement		2,300		(465	)		—			1,835
	Customer based relationships and other		6,578		(2,220	)		—			4,358
	Foreign currency translation impact		255		—			—			255
	Total purchased intangible assets	$	217,728	$	(133,915	)	$	(50,242	)	$	33,571
	In February 2001, we merged with Thermo Cardiosystems, Inc. The components of identifiable intangible assets totaled $207.0 million, which included patents and trademarks, core technology, and developed technology (collectively referred to as the "PVAD and IVAD intangible assets"). During the fourth quarter of 2012, we determined that the downward trend in sales of the PVAD and IVAD product lines (collectively known as the Thoratec product line) for the first three quarters of 2012, which fell short of the forecast established at the beginning of 2012, should be expected to continue due primarily to 1) earlier treatment of heart failure patients with implantable ventricular assist devices as more clinicians become aware and willing to implant a Left Ventricular Assist Device, 2) an expanded range of competing therapies, 3) the continued evolution of products, including Heartmate II and CentriMag, and 4) increased usage of other competitive VADs providing biventricular support for the heart. Consequently, we determined that sufficient indicators of potential impairment existed to require an impairment assessment of our PVAD and IVAD intangible assets. These indicators included the recent business trends of the Thoratec product line, and changes in the competitive market landscape, both of which we believe contributed to the significant decline in sales in 2012, from $29.5 million and $28.1 million in fiscals 2010 and 2011, respectively, to $19.0 million in fiscal 2012. The fair value was based on the individual discounted cash flows of "Core technology" and "Developed technology" intangible asset categories within PVAD and IVAD. The decline in the fair value of these intangible assets resulted from lower projected revenue and profitability levels. The comparison between the undiscounted cash flows and the carrying value of the intangible assets resulted in the existence of impairment. Accordingly, the PVAD and IVAD intangible assets were written down to $12.6 million, resulting in an impairment charge of $50.2 million. The impairment charge of $50.2 million was reported in a separate line "Impairment of intangible assets" used in determining gross profit on the consolidated statement of operations for the fiscal year ended December 29, 2012, given that the amortization of these intangible assets is recorded to cost of product sales.
	A key assumption used to determine the fair value of the PVAD and IVAD intangible assets in 2012, based on level 3 fair value hierarchy, was the expected cash flow from 2013 to 2017 (discounted based on our best estimate of a market participant's after-tax WACC). If the discount rate applied in our analysis had been 1.00% higher than estimated, the resulting impact on the intangible impairment charge would not have been material. Changes in the judgments and estimates underlying our analysis of intangible assets for possible impairment, including expected future cash flows and discount rate, could result in a significantly different estimate of the fair value of these intangible assets in the future and could result in an additional impairment charge.
	Purchased identifiable intangible assets are amortized on either a straight-line or accelerated method based on the expected pattern of future benefits related to those respective intangible assets. Subsequent to the impairment of the core and developed technology associated with our PVAD and IVAD intangible assets in the fourth quarter of 2012, we changed our method of amortization from the straight-line method to an accelerated method to more closely reflect the expected pattern of benefits associated with the remaining carrying amount of these intangible assets.
	There was no indication of potential impairment of the purchased intangible assets, including the PVAD and IVAD intangible assets, in 2013. Amortization expense related to identifiable intangible assets (subject to amortization) was $10.3 million, $11.1 million, and $9.7 million in fiscal years 2013, 2012, and 2011, respectively.
	Patents and trademarks have remaining useful lives ranging from five to eight years, core and developed technology assets have remaining useful lives ranging from one to eight years, pre-existing license agreements have remaining useful lives of five years, and customer-based relationships have remaining lives of one to six years.
	Estimated amortization expense for the next five fiscal years and all years thereafter are as follows:
		(in thousands)
	Fiscal year:
	2014	$	7,275
	2015		4,811
	2016		3,481
	2017		2,577
	2018		2,197
	Thereafter		3,662
	Total	$	24,003

Commitments_and_Contingencies

Commitments and Contingencies	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 28, 2013
Commitments and Contingencies.	'
Commitments and Contingencies	'
	Note 7. Commitments and Contingencies
	Legal Proceedings
	From time to time we are involved in litigation arising out of claims in the normal course of business. Based on the information presently available, management believes that there are no claims or actions pending or threatened against us, the ultimate resolution of which will have a material effect on our financial position, liquidity or results of operations, although the results of litigation are inherently uncertain.
	On January 24, 2014, the Company and certain of its officers and directors were named as defendants in a complaint filed in the United States District Court for the Northern District of California. The action, entitled Bradley Cooper, et al. v. Thoratec Corp. et al., Case No. 4:14-cv-00360, is brought on behalf of a purported class of purchasers of the Company's securities between April 29, 2010, and November 27, 2013, inclusive (the "Class Period"), and alleges violations of Sections 10(b) and 20(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and Rule 10b-5 promulgated thereunder. The complaint alleges that, during the Class Period, the defendants made false or misleading statements (or failed to disclose certain facts) regarding the Company's business and outlook, focusing primarily on the Company's alleged failure to disclose the risk of pump thrombosis associated with its HeartMate II Left Ventricular Assist Device. Plaintiffs seek unspecified damages, an award of reasonable costs and expenses, including reasonable attorneys' fees, and any other relief deemed just and proper by the court. Although the results of litigation are inherently uncertain, based on the information presently available, we do not believe the ultimate resolution of this action will have a material effect on our financial position, liquidity or results of operations.
	Contingent Consideration
	In August 2011, we acquired Levitronix Medical using a combination of cash and post-acquisition earn-out payments. The earn-out payments are payable annually over the next four years, calculated based on 36% of sales from Levitronix Medical in excess of $24.0 million per year. Each annual earn-out payment is contingent upon results of operations. As of December 28, 2013, the fair value of the Levitronix Medical contingent consideration was $22.3 million.
	In June 2013, we acquired DuraHeart II using a combination of cash and post-acquisition earn-out payments. The earn-out payments totaling $43.5 million will become payable by us upon reaching various regulatory and commercial sale milestones. As of December 28, 2013, the fair value of the DuraHeart II contingent consideration was $21.1 million. Refer to Note 2 for more information.
	Leases
	We lease certain manufacturing, office, research facilities, and equipment under operating leases that expire at various times, the longest of which expires on September 1, 2027. Future minimum lease payments for the next five years and thereafter are as follows:
		(in thousands)
	Fiscal year ended:
	2014	$	2,883
	2015		2,812
	2016		2,656
	2017		2,476
	2018		2,486
	Thereafter		17,392
	Total	$	30,705
	Rent expense for all operating leases for fiscal 2013, 2012, and 2011 was $3.3 million, $2.9 million, and $2.2 million, respectively.
	Commitments
	We have purchase order commitments, including both supply and inventory related agreements, totaling $58.8 million and $85.2 million as of December 28, 2013, and December 29, 2012, respectively.
	We enter into standard indemnification provisions with many of our customers and certain other business partners in the ordinary course of business. These provisions include obligations to indemnify the customers, distributors and certain vendors against any claim brought by a third party to the extent any such claim alleges that our products infringe an intellectual property right of a third party, that the use of our products caused injury or death, or that our products were defective, in each case subject to certain limitations, including that the products be used in strict accordance with their FDA approved labeling. The maximum potential amount of future payments we could be required to make under these indemnification obligations is not estimable. However, we have not incurred any significant costs to defend lawsuits or settle claims related to these indemnification obligations. No material claims for such indemnification were outstanding as of December 28, 2013. We have not recorded any liabilities for these indemnification obligations as of December 28, 2013, and December 29, 2012.

Debt_and_Other_Financing_Arran

Debt and Other Financing Arrangements	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 28, 2013
Debt and Other Financing Arrangements	'
Debt and Other Financing Arrangements	'
	Note 8. Debt and Other Financing Arrangements
	Senior Subordinated Convertible Notes (retired in May 2011)
	In 2004, we completed the sale of $143.8 million of initial principal amount of senior subordinated convertible notes due in 2034. The convertible notes were sold to "qualified institutional buyers" pursuant to the exemption from the registration requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, provided by Rule 144A.
	The senior subordinated convertible notes were issued at an issue price of $580.98 per note, which is 58.098% of the principal amount at maturity of the notes. The senior subordinated convertible notes bore interest at a rate of 1.3798% per year on the principal amount at maturity, payable semi-annually in arrears in cash on May 16 and November 16 of each year, from November 16, 2004 until May 16, 2011.
	Holders of the senior subordinated convertible notes were able to convert their convertible notes into shares of our common stock at a conversion rate of 29.4652 shares per $1,000 principal amount of senior subordinated convertible notes, which represents a conversion price of $19.72 per share, subject to adjustments upon the occurrence of certain events as set forth in the indenture. If holders elected conversion, we could elect, at our option, to deliver shares of common stock, pay a holder in cash, or deliver a combination of shares and cash, as determined pursuant to the terms of the notes.
	Holders could have required us to repurchase all or a portion of their senior subordinated convertible notes on each of May 16, 2011, 2014, 2019, 2024, and 2029 at a repurchase price equal to 100% of the issue price, plus accrued original issue discount, if any. On March 31, 2011, pursuant to our rights under the terms of the Notes we gave notice of our intention to redeem all of our outstanding senior subordinated convertible notes on May 17, 2011. During the second quarter of 2011, prior to or on May 16, 2011, bondholders converted 243,367 bonds, and we elected to pay $164.4 million in cash and issue 2,397,535 shares with an estimated fair value at conversion of $82.7 million. In addition, on May 17, 2011, we redeemed the remaining outstanding 15 bonds for cash. We accounted for the extinguishment in accordance with ASC 470-20, Debt, and there was no gain or loss reported for the fiscal year ended December 29, 2012. The difference of $105.7 million between the fair value of the aggregate consideration paid of $247.1 million and the face value of the senior subordinated convertible notes of $141.4 million was recorded to additional paid-in-capital.
	In accordance with accounting standards for certain convertible debt instruments that may be settled in cash or other assets, or partially in cash, upon conversion, we recorded the long-term debt and equity components on the senior subordinated convertible notes separately. This accounting pronouncement increased interest expense associated with our senior subordinated convertible notes by adding a non-cash component to amortize a debt discount calculated based on the difference between the cash coupon rate (2.375% per year) of the senior subordinated convertible notes and the effective interest rate on debt borrowing (9% per year). The discount, which represents the non-cash interest expense, classified as interest expense on the consolidated statements of operations, was being amortized to interest expense over a seven-year period ending May 16, 2011 (the expected life of the liability component) using the effective interest method. Additionally, we allocated transaction costs on the same percentage as the liability and equity component, such that a portion of the deferred debt issuance costs was allocated to the liability component to be amortized using the effective interest method until May 16, 2011, and the equity component to be included in additional paid-in-capital.
	Interest expense primarily includes interest and amortization of discount related to senior subordinated convertible notes as follows:
		Fiscal Years
		2013		2012		2011
		(in thousands)
	Interest expense—cash component	$	—	$	—	$	1,259
	Interest expense—non-cash component		—		—		3,127
	Credit Facility
	On December 19, 2011, we signed an unsecured revolving credit facility agreement that provides for up to $50.0 million revolving credit that will expire on December 19, 2016. The interest rate charged on the amounts borrowed is LIBOR plus a margin (ranging from 0.75% to 1.25%). The agreement contains financial covenants which we were in compliance as of December 28, 2013. The credit agreement permits us to use the facility for working capital and general corporate purposes. We have not had any borrowings under this credit facility in fiscal years 2011, 2012, and 2013

ShareBased_Compensation

Share-Based Compensation	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 28, 2013
Share-Based Compensation.	'
Share-Based Compensation	'
	Note 9. Share-Based Compensation
	Our Board of Directors approved the 2006 Incentive Stock Plan (the "2006 Plan"). The 2006 Plan was last amended in May 2012. Participation in the 2006 Plan is limited to employees, directors, and consultants. Shares reserved for future issuance under the 2006 Plan may be used for grants of stock options ("options"), restricted stock units ("RSUs"), and other types of awards. Options granted under the 2006 Plan are either incentive or nonqualified stock options and generally become exercisable in equal annual installments over a period of four years from the date of grant and expire generally ten years from the grant date. RSUs generally vest in equal annual installments over a four-year period.
	The Board of Directors authorizes the granting of options, RSUs and other type of awards to employees and consultants. The exercise prices of the options shall not be less than the fair market value of common stock on the date of grant. The fair value of RSUs granted is determined based on the number of RSUs granted and the quoted price of our common stock on the date of grant. As of December 28, 2013, approximately 3.3 million shares remained available for issuance under the 2006 Plan.
	Additionally, we sponsor the Employee Stock Purchase Plan (the "ESPP") in which eligible employees may contribute up to 15% of their base compensation to purchase shares of common stock at a price equal to 85% of the lower of the market value of the stock at the beginning or end of each six-month offer period. In fiscal 2013, 143,593 shares of common stock were issued under the ESPP. As of December 28, 2013, 279,350 shares remained available for issuance under this plan.
	Share-based compensation expense and related share award activity is presented on a consolidated basis, unless otherwise presented as continuing or discontinued operations.
	Share-based compensation consists of the following:
		Fiscal Years
		2013			2012			2011
		(in thousands)
	Cost of product sales	$	2,365		$	2,130		$	1,543
	Selling, general and administrative		16,897			13,235			10,387
	Research and development		7,735			6,327			4,171
	Total share-based compensation expense before taxes		26,997			21,692			16,101
	Tax benefit for share-based compensation expense		10,083			8,501			5,688
	Total share-based compensation expense (net of taxes)	$	16,914		$	13,191		$	10,413
	Share-based compensation costs of $0.5 million, $0.2 million, and $0.4 million were capitalized to inventory as of December 28, 2013, December 29, 2012, and December 31, 2011, respectively.
	We receive a tax deduction for certain stock option exercises during the period the options are exercised, generally for the excess of the fair market value of the options at the date of exercise over the exercise prices of the options. The excess tax benefits (i.e., windfalls only for tax deductions in excess of the share-based compensation expense recognized) are reported as financing cash flows of $2.4 million, $3.2 million, and $1.7 million for fiscal 2013, 2012, and 2011, respectively, on the consolidated statements of cash flows.
	Cash proceeds from the exercise of stock options were $16.7 million, $10.1 million, and $11.5 million for fiscal 2013, 2012, and 2011, respectively. Cash proceeds from our employee stock purchase plan were $4.4 million, $3.5 million, and $3.1 million for fiscal 2013, 2012, and 2011, respectively. The actual income tax benefit realized from stock option exercises was $2.4 million, $3.4 million, and $1.8 million for fiscal 2013, 2012, and 2011, respectively.
	Stock Options
	The fair value of each option is estimated at the date of grant using the Black- Scholes option pricing formula with the following assumptions:
		Fiscal Years
		2013		2012		2011
	Risk-free interest rate	1.40%		1.40%		2.71%
	Expected volatility	37%		43%		44%
	Expected option life	4.92 - 5.71 years		4.76 - 5.84 years		4.69 - 5.33 years
	Dividends	None		None		None
	Determining Fair Value for Options
	•
	Valuation and amortization method—We estimate the fair value of stock options granted using the Black-Scholes option-pricing formula. This fair value is then amortized over the requisite service periods of the awards.
	•
	Expected term—The expected term of options represents the period of time that options are expected to be outstanding. We use separate assumptions for groups of employees (for example, officers) that have similar historical exercise behavior, giving consideration to the contractual terms of the share-based awards, vesting schedules and expectations of future employee behavior as influenced by changes to the terms of our share-based awards. The range above reflects the expected option impact of these separate groups.
	•
	Expected volatility—Our expected volatility was based on a combination of historical volatility trends and market-based implied volatility because we determined that this combination of historical volatility trends and market-based implied trends is reflective of market conditions. In determining the extent of use of implied volatility, we considered: (i) the volume of market activity of traded options; (ii) the ability to reasonably match the input variables of traded options to those of stock options granted by us, including the date of grant; (iii) the similarity of the exercise prices; and (iv) the length of term of traded options.
	•
	Risk-free interest rate—The risk-free interest rate is based on the U.S. Treasury yield curve in effect at the time of grant.
	•
	Expected dividend—The expected dividend assumption is based on our current expectations about our anticipated dividend policy.
	Option activity is summarized as follows:
		Number of			Weighted			Weighted
		Options			Average			Average
		(in thousands)			Exercise			Remaining
					Price			Contract
					Per Share			Life (years)
	Outstanding as of January 1, 2011 (1,883 exercisable at $17.60 weighted average price per share)		2,694		$	19.81			5.05
	Granted		643			27.72
	Cancelled and expired		(112	)		24.11
	Exercised		(687	)		16.72
	Outstanding as of December 31, 2011 (1,484 exercisable at $19.04 weighted average price per share)		2,538		$	22.46			5.96
	Granted		602			33.74
	Cancelled and expired		(76	)		31.13
	Exercised		(566	)		17.78
	Outstanding as of December 29, 2012 (1,265 exercisable at $21.29 weighted average price per share)		2,498		$	25.98			6.27
	Granted		596			35.7
	Cancelled and expired		(74	)		32.45
	Exercised		(759	)		21.97
	Outstanding as of December 28, 2013		2,261		$	29.68			6.95
	As of December 28, 2013, there was $7.1 million of unrecognized compensation expense, net of estimated forfeitures, related to stock options, which we expect to recognize over a weighted average period of 1.29 years. The aggregate intrinsic value of in-the-money options outstanding as of December 28, 2013 was $14.7 million. The total intrinsic value of options exercised during fiscal 2013, 2012, and 2011 was $12.8 million, $10.0 million, and $8.1 million, respectively. The weighted average grant-date fair value of options granted during fiscal 2013, 2012, and 2011 was $13.00 per share, $14.99 per share, and $13.53 per share, respectively.
	The following table summarizes outstanding options that have vested or are expected to vest and are exercisable as of December 28, 2013:
		Number of			Weighted			Weighted			Aggregate
		Shares			Average			Average			Intrinsic
					Exercise			Remaining			Value
					Price			Contractual
								Term
	(in thousands)						(in years)			(in millions)
Vested or expected to vest		2,198		$	29.55			6.9		$	14.6
Exercisable		926		$	24.57			4.9		$	10.7
Options outstanding as of December 28, 2013 are summarized as follows:
	Options Outstanding									Options Exercisable
	(in thousands, except contractual life and exercise price)
Exercise Price Range	Number			Weighted			Weighted			Number		Weighted
				Average			Average					Average
				Remaining			Exercise					Exercise
				Contractual Life			Price					Price
				(In Years)
$8.52 - $23.93		482			2.96		$	19.55			482	$	19.55
$24.35 - $29.81		633			6.82			28.1			311		28.32
$30.44 - $33.99		548			8.22			33.61			123		33.62
$34.50 - $35.10		18			8.39			34.81			5		34.83
$35.68 - $43.30		580			9.17			35.93			5		42.89
		2,261			6.95		$	29.68			926	$	24.57
Restricted Stock Units
As of December 28, 2013, we had $33.3 million of unrecognized compensation expense, net of estimated forfeitures, which we expect to recognize over a weighted average period of 2.22 years. The aggregate intrinsic value of the RSUs outstanding was $52.8 million.
RSU activity is summarized as follows:
	Number of			Weighted			Weighted
	Units			Average			Average
	(in thousands)			Grant Date			Remaining
				Fair Value			Contract
							(in Years)
Outstanding units as of January 1, 2011		688			28.86			1.53
Granted		736			28.73
Released		(209	)		28.25
Forfeited or expired		(64	)		27.94
Outstanding units as of December 31, 2011		1,151			28.88			1.5
Granted		730			34.22
Released		(327	)		28.54
Forfeited or expired		(92	)		30.74
Outstanding units as of December 29, 2012		1,462			31.52			1.37
Granted		649			35.3
Released		(553	)		30.74
Forfeited or expired		(97	)		32.91
Outstanding units as of December 28, 2013		1,461			33.4			1.27
Employee Stock Purchase Plan
The estimated subscription date fair value of the offering under the ESPP for each fiscal year 2013, 2012, and 2011 were $0.6 million as calculated using the Black-Scholes option pricing model and the following assumptions:
	Fiscal Years
	2013			2012			2011
Risk-free interest rate		0.08	%		0.15	%		0.05	%
Expected volatility		29	%		39	%		36	%
Expected option life		0.50 years			0.50 years			0.50 years
Dividends		None			None			None
As of December 28, 2013, there was $0.4 million of unrecognized compensation expense related to ESPP subscriptions that began on November 1, 2013, which we expect to recognize during the first four months of 2014.

Common_and_Preferred_Stock

Common and Preferred Stock	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 28, 2013
Common and Preferred Stock	'
Common and Preferred Stock	'
	Note 10. Common and Preferred Stock
	We authorized 100 million shares of no par common stock, and 2.5 million shares of no par preferred stock, of which 540,541 shares have been designated Series A, 500,000 shares have been designated Series B and 100,000 shares have been designated Series RP.
	The Series A preferred stock is entitled to cumulative annual dividends of $1.30 per share and has a liquidation preference of $9.25 per share plus cumulative unpaid dividends. We may redeem the Series A preferred stock at any time for its liquidation preference. Each share of Series A preferred stock is convertible into one-third of a share of common stock, after adjusting for earned but unpaid dividends. No shares of Series A preferred stock were outstanding for all periods presented.
	The Series B preferred stock is senior to the Series A in all preferences. The Series B preferred stock is entitled to cumulative annual dividends of $0.96 per share and has a liquidation preference of $8.00 per share plus cumulative unpaid dividends. The Series B preferred stock is redeemable by us five years after its issuance for its liquidation preference. Each share of Series B preferred stock is convertible at any time into three and one-third shares of common stock and has certain anti-dilution provisions. Series B preferred shares vote on an as-converted basis. As of December 28, 2013, no shares of Series B preferred stock were outstanding.
	On November 26, 2012, our Board of Directors authorized the repurchase of up to $150.0 million of shares of our common stock ("November 2012 program"). As part of the authorization, we entered into an Accelerated Share Repurchase agreement ("2012 ASR contract") with an investment bank, under which we agreed to repurchase an aggregate of $75.0 million of our common stock. Under the 2012 ASR contract, we paid $75.0 million and received an initial delivery of 1,479,095 shares, which represented 75% of the 2012 ASR contract's estimated value at inception. At the maturity of the 2012 ASR contract in the first quarter of 2013, an additional 603,995 shares were delivered to us. The total number of shares repurchased under the 2012 ASR contract was based on a per share price of $36.00, representing the volume-weighted average price (VWAP) of our common stock during the repurchase period, less an agreed upon discount.
	In the third quarter of 2013, we entered into an Accelerated Share Repurchase agreement ("2013 ASR contract") with an investment bank, under which we agreed to repurchase an aggregate of $40.0 million of our common stock and received an initial delivery of 820,120 shares, which represented 75% of the 2013 ASR contract's estimated value at inception. At the maturity of the 2013 ASR contract in the fourth quarter of 2013, an additional 249,062 shares were delivered to us. The total number of shares repurchased by us under the 2013 ASR contract was based on a per share price of $37.41, representing the VWAP of our common stock during the repurchase period, less an agreed upon discount. In December 2013, we repurchased $8.9 million worth of shares of our common stock under the November 2012 program, of which $2.7 million was accrued on the consolidated balance sheet as of December 28, 2013. As of December 28, 2013, $26.1 million was available for repurchases of shares of our common stock under the November 2012 program which expired on December 31, 2013. On December 5, 2013, the Board of Directors authorized a new program to repurchase up to $200.0 million of our shares of common stock, which will expire on December 31, 2015.
	Each respective ASR contract was accounted for as two separate transactions: (i) as shares of common stock acquired in a share repurchase transaction and (ii) as a forward contract indexed to our own common stock. The initial delivery of shares resulted in an immediate reduction of the outstanding shares used to calculate the weighted-average common shares outstanding for basic and diluted net earnings per share from the effective date of the ASR contract. We have determined that the forward contract indexed to our common stock met all of the applicable criteria for equity classification.
	We are incorporated in California, and as California law does not recognize treasury stock, the shares repurchased decreased the common shares outstanding. We recorded the $67.7 million of shares repurchased in 2013 under the November 2012 program by reducing the additional paid-in-capital (APIC) balance by the average value per share reflected in the account prior to the repurchase and allocating the excess as a reduction of retained earnings. Based on this allocation, APIC decreased by $22.7 million and retained earnings decreased by $45.0 million in the consolidated statement of shareholders' equity.
	We also purchased shares of our common stock that were not part of our publicly announced repurchase programs (e.g. November 2012 program), which represent the surrender value of shares of restricted stock units withheld in order to satisfy tax withholding obligations upon vesting. The shares purchased do not reduce the dollar value that may yet be purchased under our publicly announced repurchase programs. The aggregate value of shares purchased in 2013 was $7.6 million, which decreased APIC and retained earnings by $2.5 million and $5.1 million, respectively, based on the same allocation methodology discussed above.

Retirement_Savings_Plans

Retirement Savings Plans	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 28, 2013
Retirement Savings Plans	'
Retirement Savings Plans	'
	Note 11. Retirement Savings Plans
	Substantially all of our U.S. employees are eligible to participate in a 401(k) retirement savings plan (the "Retirement Plan"). Under the Retirement Plan, employees may elect to contribute up to 100% of their eligible compensation to the Retirement Plan with the Company making discretionary matching contributions, subject to certain IRS limitations. The matching contribution was 50%, up to the first 6% of eligible employee plan contribution. Employees vest in the matching contribution at the rate of 25% per year, with full vesting after four years of service with us. In fiscal 2013, 2012, and 2011, we made matching contributions of $2.3 million, $2.0 million, and $1.7 million, respectively.
	In 2004, we established a non-qualified, unfunded deferred compensation plan for certain management employees and our Board of Directors. Amounts deferred and contributed under the deferred compensation plan are credited or charged with the performance of investment options offered under the plan and elected by the participants. The liability for compensation deferred under this plan was $5.9 million and $4.4 million as of December 28, 2013 and December 29, 2012, respectively, and is included in "Other long-term liabilities" on our consolidated balance sheets. We manage the risk of changes in the fair value of the liability for deferred compensation by electing to match our liability under the plan with investments that offset a substantial portion of our exposure. The cash surrender value of these corporate owned life insurance policies and the fair value of the mutual fund investments aggregated $5.2 million and $4.2 million as of December 28, 2013 and December 29, 2012, respectively, and are included in "Other long-term assets" on the consolidated balance sheets.

Income_Taxes

Income Taxes	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 28, 2013
Income Taxes	'
Income Taxes	'
	Note 12. Income Taxes
	Significant components of income taxes are as follows:
		Fiscal Years
		2013			2012			2011
		(in thousands)
	Continuing operations:
	Current:
	Federal	$	25,909		$	37,056		$	34,453
	State		2,942			5,584			4,770
	Foreign		7,224			6,348			2,483
			36,075			48,988			41,706
	Deferred:
	Federal		(9,363	)		(24,536	)		(1,167	)
	State		(503	)		(3,280	)		(433	)
	Foreign		220			(18	)		(810	)
			(9,646	)		(27,834	)		(2,410	)
	Total income tax expense—continuing operations	$	26,429		$	21,154		$	39,296
	Discontinued operations:
	Current:
	Federal	$	—		$	—		$	(605	)
	State		—			—			(151	)
			—			—			(756	)
	Deferred:
	Federal		—			—			—
	State		—			—			(15	)
	Foreign		—			—			—
			—			—			(15	)
	Total income tax expense (benefit)—discontinued operations	$	—		$	—		$	(771	)
	Income (loss) from operations before taxes generated from geographic areas is as follows:
		Fiscal Years
		2013			2012			2011
		(in thousands)
	Continuing operations:
	Domestic	$	73,766		$	50,351		$	108,733
	Foreign		25,989			26,966			3,138
	Total—continuing operations	$	99,755		$	77,317		$	111,871
	Discontinued operations:
	Domestic	$	—		$	—		$	(1,802	)
	Total income from operations before taxes	$	99,755		$	77,317		$	110,069
	The income tax expense in the accompanying statements of operations differs from the provision calculated by applying the U.S. federal statutory income tax rate of 35% to income before taxes due to the following:
		Fiscal Years
		2013						2012					2011
		(in thousands, except percentages)
	Continuing operations:
	U.S. federal statutory income tax expense	$	34,914			35	%	$	27,061		35	%	$	39,155		35	%
	State income tax expense, net of federal tax benefit		1,286			1.3			573		0.7			2,425		2.2
	Non-deductible expenses		(93	)		(0.1	)		(326	)	(0.4	)		314		0.3
	Research and development credits		(4,676	)		(4.7	)		—		—			(2,119	)	(1.9	)
	Foreign earnings permanently reinvested		(1,891	)		(1.9	)		(2,348	)	(3.0	)		(63	)	(0.1	)
	Tax advantaged investment income		(211	)		(0.2	)		(294	)	(0.4	)		(717	)	(0.6	)
	Return-to-provision true-up		395			0.4			(563	)	(0.7	)		(63	)	(0.1	)
	Levitronix Medical U.S. deferred tax asset write-off		—			—			—		—			862		0.8
	Compensation limitation write-down		638			0.6			536		0.7			859		0.7
	Domestic production activities		(2,698	)		(2.7	)		(3,225	)	(4.2	)		(2,820	)	(2.5	)
	Valuation allowance		(127	)		(0.1	)		(4	)	—			(45	)	—
	Other		112			0.1			(319	)	(0.4	)		(72	)	(0.1	)
	Tax reserves		(1,220	)		(1.2	)		63		0.1			1,580		1.4
	Total income tax expense from continuing operations	$	26,429			26.5	%	$	21,154		27.4	%	$	39,296		35.1	%
	On January 2, 2013, the U.S. President signed into law The American Taxpayer Relief Act of 2012. This Act extended the research tax credit for two years to December 31, 2013. The extension of the research tax credit was retroactive and included amounts paid or incurred after December 31, 2011. As a result of the enactment after our fiscal year ended December 29, 2012, we recognized, in 2013, a benefit for qualifying amounts of $2.3 million incurred in 2012, which combined with the 2013 research and development credits, are reflected in "research and development credits" line in the table above.
	Deferred income taxes reflect the net tax effects of: (a) temporary differences between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities for financial reporting purposes and the amounts used for income tax purposes, and (b) operating loss and tax credit carry forwards.
	Significant components of deferred tax assets and liabilities for continuing operations are as follows:
		December 28, 2013			December 29, 2012
		(in thousands)
Deferred tax assets:
Reserves and accruals	$	9,822		$	6,875
Depreciation and amortization		4,404			25
Inventory basis difference		3,051			3,287
Share-based compensation		11,114			9,151
Research and development and other credit carry forwards		4,908			4,198
Capital loss carryovers		4,644			4,768
Other, net		530			1,269
Total deferred tax assets		38,473			29,573
Valuation allowance		(4,644	)		(4,768	)
		33,829			24,805
Deferred tax liabilities:
Purchased intangibles		(6,459	)		(7,025	)
Other, net		(304	)		(95	)
Total deferred tax liabilities		(6,763	)		(7,120	)
Net deferred tax assets	$	27,066		$	17,685
Reported As:
Current deferred tax assets	$	15,161		$	10,626
Other long-term assets—deferred tax assets		14,331			9,839
Short-term deferred tax liabilities included in other accrued liabilities		(202	)		—
Net long-term deferred tax liabilities		(2,224	)		(2,780	)
Net deferred tax assets	$	27,066		$	17,685
As of December 28, 2013, we had research and development tax credit carryovers for state purposes of $9.2 million. The majority of these state credits may be carried forward indefinitely.
As of December 28, 2013, we had $12.1 million of federal and state capital losses remaining from 2010, which may generally be carried back three years for federal purposes and carried forward five years up to 2015 for both federal and California purposes, which is fully reserved with a valuation allowance.
The valuation allowance for deferred tax assets as of December 28, 2013 and December 29, 2012, was approximately $4.6 million and $4.8 million, respectively. The valuation allowance of $4.6 million as of December 28, 2013, is related to capital loss carry forwards that, in the judgment of management, are more likely than not to be unrealizable. In assessing the recoverability of deferred tax assets, management considers whether it is more likely than not that some or all of the deferred tax assets will not be realized. The ultimate realization of deferred tax assets depends on the generation of future taxable income of the appropriate character during the periods in which those temporary differences are deductible. We do not currently anticipate recognizing capital gains that would enable us to utilize the capital loss carry forwards; therefore we have recorded a full valuation allowance against this deferred tax asset. We believe realization of all of our remaining net deferred tax assets as of December 28, 2013 is more likely than not based on the future reversal of temporary tax differences and upon future taxable earnings exclusive of reversing temporary differences.
We utilize the "short-cut" method for purposes of determining our hypothetical stock option pool of excess tax benefits. As of December 28, 2013, the stock option pool of excess tax benefits was $30.9 million.
The federal, state and foreign provisions do not reflect certain tax savings resulting from tax benefits associated with our various stock option plans. The savings were credited to additional paid-in-capital for $2.4 million, $3.4 million, and $1.8 million in fiscal 2013, 2012, and 2011, respectively.
We provide for U.S. income taxes on the earnings of foreign subsidiaries unless such earnings are considered permanently reinvested in their respective foreign jurisdictions. As of December 28, 2013, the cumulative earnings on which U.S. income taxes have not been provided were $53.6 million. The amount of unrecognized deferred tax liability related to permanently reinvested earnings is $7.8 million. Foreign earnings were considered to be permanently reinvested in operations outside the U.S.
We evaluate tax positions for recognition using a more-likely-than-not recognition threshold, and those tax positions eligible for recognition are measured as the largest amount of tax benefit that is greater than 50% likely of being realized upon the effective settlement with a taxing authority that has full knowledge of all relevant information.
A reconciliation of the beginning and ending amount of gross unrecognized tax benefits from continuing operations is as follows:
	Fiscal Years
	2013			2012			2011
	(in thousands)
Balance at beginning of fiscal year	$	9,965		$	10,652		$	10,780
Gross increases for tax positions related to the current year		2,240			912			2,621
Gross increases for tax positions related to prior years		1,418			282			410
Gross decreases for tax positions related to prior years		(466	)		(1,069	)		(718	)
Settlements		(2,528	)		(3	)		(1,948	)
Lapse of statute of limitations		(2,699	)		(809	)		(493	)
Balance at end of fiscal year	$	7,930		$	9,965		$	10,652
Included in the unrecognized tax benefits balance at December 28, 2013, December 29, 2012, and December 31, 2011, was $6.7 million, $8.1 million, and $8.9 million, respectively, which, if recognized, would impact our effective tax rate. Our policy for classifying interest and penalties associated with unrecognized income tax benefits is to include the following items in income tax expense from continuing operations:
	Fiscal Years
	2013			2012			2011
	(in thousands)
Interest	$	(198	)	$	27		$	165
Penalties		(31	)		22			35
Interest and penalties accrued on the consolidated balance sheets as of the end of each fiscal year:
	2013			2012
	(in thousands)
Interest	$	233		$	430
Penalties		37			68
We file U.S. federal tax returns, state tax returns and tax returns in other domestic and foreign jurisdictions, including the U.K. and Switzerland. The years 2010 through 2012 remain open to examination for U.S. purposes, 2010 through 2012 for U.K. purposes, 2011 through 2012 for Switzerland purposes, and 2009 through 2012 for most state jurisdictions. In 2014 and thereafter, it is reasonably possible that we will close certain years as a result of the lapse of the statute of limitations. This may further decrease our liability for unrecognized tax benefits by $0.7 million in 2014.

Segment_Disclosure

Segment Disclosure	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 28, 2013
Segment Disclosure	'
Segment Disclosure	'
	Note 13. Segment Disclosure
	We have one operating and reporting segment (Cardiovascular group) which develops, manufactures and markets proprietary medical devices used for mechanical circulatory support for the treatment of heart failure patients. Our chief operating decision-maker reviews financial information presented on a consolidated basis for purposes of making operating decisions and assessing financial performance, accompanied by disaggregated revenue information by product line. We do not assess the performance of our individual product line on measures of profit or loss, or asset-based metrics. Therefore, the information below is presented only for revenues by product line, geography, and certain revenue category.
	Product sales attributed to a country or region includes product sales to hospitals, physicians and distributors and is based on final destination where the products are sold. No individual customer accounted for more than 10% of product sales in fiscal 2013, 2012, and 2011. No individual customer accounted for more than 10% of consolidated accounts receivable as of December 28, 2013 and December 29, 2012.
	Product sales from continuing operations by source were as follows:
		Fiscal Years
		2013		2012		2011
		(in thousands)
	Product sales by geographic location:
	Domestic (i.e. United States)	$	390,450	$	400,526	$	347,553
	International		112,371		91,128		75,160
	Total	$	502,821	$	491,654	$	422,713
		Fiscal Years
		2013		2012		2011
		(in thousands)
	Product sales by product line:
	HeartMate	$	444,376	$	434,546	$	366,321
	Thoratec		12,482		19,035		28,165
	CentriMag		43,340		35,723		25,729
	Other		2,623		2,350		2,498
	Total	$	502,821	$	491,654	$	422,713
		Fiscal Years
		2013		2012		2011
		(in thousands)
	Product sales by category:
	Pump	$	355,266	$	356,310	$	298,246
	Non-pump		144,932		132,994		121,975
	Other		2,623		2,350		2,492
	Total	$	502,821	$	491,654	$	422,713
	No individual country with sales originating outside of the U.S. accounted for more than 10% of consolidated product sales in fiscal 2013, 2012, and 2011. No individual country outside of the U.S. accounted for more than 10% of the consolidated property, plant and equipment as of December 28, 2013 and December 29, 2012.

Earnings_Per_Share

Earnings Per Share	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 28, 2013
Earnings Per Share	'
Earnings Per Share	'
	Note 14. Earnings Per Share
	Under the treasury stock method, the amount of assumed proceeds from unexercised options and RSUs include the amount of unrecognized compensation cost attributable to future services, assumed proceeds from the exercise of the options, and the incremental income tax benefit or liability that would be recorded in APIC when the award becomes deductible. In addition, under the if-converted method, cash and non-cash interest expense from the senior subordinated convertible notes are added back to net income and the weighted-average number of common shares that the notes convert into are included in the number of shares used to calculate diluted net income per share.
	With respect to fiscals 2012 and 2011, we previously granted restricted stock awards ("RSAs") under the 2006 Plan that were subject to repurchase and had non-forfeitable rights to receive dividends as common stock and therefore were considered to be participating securities. No RSAs have been issued since 2008 and all RSAs were fully vested at the end of fiscal 2012. Under the two-class method, basic and diluted net income per common share are determined by calculating net income per share for common stock and participating securities (e.g. RSAs) based on participation rights in undistributed earnings. Dilutive net income per common share also considers the dilutive effect of in-the-money options and RSUs, calculated using the treasury stock methods and the dilutive effect of the senior subordinated convertible notes, calculated using the if-converted method as mentioned above.
	Basic and diluted income per common share attributable to common shareholders under the two-class method was calculated as follows:
		Fiscal Years
		2013		2012			2011
		(in thousands, except per
		share data)
	Basic net income per common share calculation
	Income from continuing operations	$	73,326	$	56,163		$	72,575
	Income from continuing operations allocated to participating securities		—		(12	)		(123	)
	Income from continuing operations attributable to common shareholders	$	73,326	$	56,151		$	72,452
	Loss from discontinued operations	$	—	$	—		$	(1,031	)
	Loss from discontinued operations allocated to participating securities		—		—			1
	Loss from discontinued operations attributable to common shareholders	$	—	$	—		$	(1,030	)
	Net income	$	73,326	$	56,163		$	71,544
	Net income allocated to participating securities		—		(12	)		(122	)
	Net income attributable to common shareholders	$	73,326	$	56,151		$	71,422
	Weighted average number of common shares used to compute basic income per common share		57,332		58,563			58,777
	Basic net income (loss) per common share
	Continuing operations	$	1.28	$	0.96		$	1.23
	Discontinued operations	$	—	$	—		$	(0.02	)
	Total	$	1.28	$	0.96		$	1.21
	Diluted net income per common share calculation
	Income from continuing operations	$	73,326	$	56,163		$	72,575
	Interest expense on senior subordinated convertible notes (after tax)		—		—			2,719
	Income from continuing operations allocated to participating securities		—		(12	)		(133	)
	Income from continuing operations attributable to common shareholders	$	73,326	$	56,151		$	75,161
	Loss from discontinued operations	$	—	$	—		$	(1,031	)
	Loss from discontinued operations allocated to participating securities		—		—			1
	Loss from discontinued operations attributable to common shareholders	$	—	$	—		$	(1,030	)
	Net income	$	73,326	$	56,163		$	71,544
	Interest expense on senior subordinated convertible notes (after tax)		—		—			2,719
	Net income allocated to participating securities		—		(12	)		(132	)
	Net income attributable to common shareholders	$	73,326	$	56,151		$	74,131
	Weighted average number of common shares used to compute basic net income per common share attributable to common shares		57,332		58,563			58,777
	Dilutive effect of share-based compensation plans		992		1,017			916
	Dilutive effect on conversion of senior subordinated convertible notes		—		—			2,831
	Weighted average number of common shares used to compute diluted net income per common share		58,324		59,580			62,524
	Diluted net income (loss) per common share
	Continuing operations	$	1.26	$	0.94		$	1.2
	Discontinued operations	$	—	$	—		$	(0.01	)
	Total	$	1.26	$	0.94		$	1.19
	Potential common share equivalents that have been excluded where the inclusion would be anti-dilutive are as follows:
		Fiscal Years
		2013		2012			2011
		(in thousands)
	Options to purchase shares not included in the computation of diluted net income per common share because their inclusion would be antidilutive		526		535			551
	In connection with the 2012 ASR contract and based on the VWAP of our common stock from November 26, 2012 to December 29, 2012, the estimated additional shares to be received at settlement would have been approximately 562,000 shares had the 2012 ASR contract been settled at December 29, 2012. The computation of diluted net income per common share for fiscal 2012 excludes the effect of assuming the receipt of these additional shares because the effect would be anti-dilutive.

Discontinued_Operations

Discontinued Operations	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 28, 2013
Discontinued Operations	'
Discontinued Operations	'
	Note 15. Discontinued Operations
	On November 4, 2010, we sold our wholly- owned subsidiary International Technidyne Corporation ("ITC") to ITC Nexus Holding Company, Inc. ("Nexus") for $55.0 million in cash pursuant to the Purchase Agreement. We accounted for the transaction as a sale of discontinued operations in 2010. In fiscal 2011, we recorded a charge of $1.0 million ($1.8 million net loss less tax benefit of $0.8 million), for ITC primarily related to post-close severance payments. All post-close severance payments were paid in fiscal 2011. We have reclassified the results of operations and any losses resulting from the disposition for the fiscal 2011 period presented to reflect them as such.

Quarterly_Results_of_Operation

Quarterly Results of Operations (Unaudited)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 28, 2013
Quarterly Results of Operations (Unaudited)	'
Quarterly Results of Operations (Unaudited)	'
	Note 16. Quarterly Results of Operations (Unaudited)
	The following is a summary of our unaudited quarterly results of operations for the fiscal 2013 and 2012:
		First		Second		Third		Fourth
		(in thousands, except per share data)
	Fiscal Year 2013:
	Product sales	$	117,725	$	130,479	$	126,444	$	128,173
	Gross profit		82,652		89,479		85,486		81,652
	Net income		18,170		23,189		18,904		13,063
	Basic net income per common share	$	0.32	$	0.4	$	0.33	$	0.23
	Diluted net income per common share	$	0.31	$	0.4	$	0.32	$	0.23
	Fiscal Year 2012:
	Product sales	$	126,769	$	118,659	$	117,768	$	128,458
	Gross profit(1)		87,882		82,637		81,606		39,250
	Net income (loss)		25,486		20,808		24,255		(14,386	)
	Basic net income (loss) per common share	$	0.44	$	0.35	$	0.41	$	(0.25	)
	Diluted net income (loss) per common share	$	0.43	$	0.35	$	0.41	$	(0.25	)
	-1
	Gross profit in the fourth quarter of 2012 includes an impairment charge of $50.2 million. Refer to Note 6 above for additional discussion of the impairment charge in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

SCHEDULE_IIVALUATION_AND_QUALI

SCHEDULE II-VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS AND RESERVES	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 28, 2013
SCHEDULE II-VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS AND RESERVES	'
SCHEDULE II-VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS AND RESERVES	'
	SCHEDULE II—VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS AND RESERVES
	For Each of the Three Fiscal Years:
		Balance		Additions		Deductions			Balance
		Beginning		(charges					End of
		of Year		to expense)					Year
		(in thousands)
	Year Ended December 28, 2013(A):
	Allowance for doubtful accounts	$	2,127	$	1,106	$	(1,070	)	$	2,163
	Year Ended December 29, 2012(A):
	Allowance for doubtful accounts	$	2,153	$	36	$	(62	)	$	2,127
	Year Ended December 31, 2011(A):
	Allowance for doubtful accounts	$	1,334	$	1,206	$	(387	)	$	2,153
	(A)
	The valuation and qualifying accounts and reserves.

Operations_and_Summary_of_Sign1

Operations and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Policies)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 28, 2013
Operations and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies	'
Basis of Presentation	'
	Basis of Presentation
	Thoratec Corporation (referred to in these Notes as "we," "our," "us," or the "Company"), is headquartered in Pleasanton, California and is a manufacturer of mechanical circulatory support products for use by patients with heart failure. Thoratec develops, manufactures and markets products that are used by physicians and hospitals for cardiac assist applications. Thoratec conducts business both domestically and internationally.
	We report on a 52 or 53 week fiscal year, which ends on the Saturday closest to December 31. The fiscal year ended December 31, 2011, ("Fiscal 2011") included 52 weeks, the fiscal year ended December 29, 2012, ("Fiscal 2012") included 52 weeks, and the fiscal year ended December 28, 2013, ("Fiscal 2013") included 52 weeks. Our consolidated financial statements include our wholly owned subsidiaries: Thoratec LLC and Continuum Services, Inc., based in the United States, Thoratec Europe Limited, based in the United Kingdom, and Thoratec Switzerland GmbH, based in Switzerland. All intercompany transactions and balances have been eliminated in consolidation.
	The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements, and the reported amounts of net sales and expenses during the reported periods. Actual results could differ materially from those estimates and assumptions.
Cash and Cash Equivalents	'
	Cash and Cash Equivalents
	Cash equivalents are defined as short-term, highly liquid investments with original maturities of 90 days or less at the date of purchase, consisting of money market funds and/or municipal bonds. The fair value of these investments (which approximates cost) is classified at Level 1 or Level 2. Refer to Note 3 for further discussion.
Investments	'
	Investments
	Our available for sale investments consist primarily of municipal bonds, variable demand notes, corporate bonds, commercial paper, certificate of deposit, and auction rate securities. These are reported as short-term available-for-sale investments on the consolidated balance sheets, with the exception of auction rate securities, which are classified as long-term available-for-sale investments.
	Our investments in available-for-sale securities are reported at fair value. Unrealized gains and losses related to changes in the fair value of securities are recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income, net of tax, on our consolidated balance sheets. Changes in the fair value of available-for-sale securities impact the net income only when such securities are sold or an other-than-temporary impairment is recognized. Realized gains and losses on the sale of securities are determined by specific identification of each security's cost basis. We regularly review our investment portfolio to determine if any security is other-than-temporarily impaired, which would require us to record an impairment charge in the period any such determination is made. In making this judgment, we evaluate, among other things, the duration and extent to which the fair value of a security is less than its cost, the financial condition of the issuer and any changes thereto, and our intent to sell, or whether it is more likely than not that we will be required to sell the security before recovery of its amortized cost basis. Our assessment on whether a security is other-than-temporarily impaired could change in the future due to new developments or changes in assumptions related to any particular security.
Fair Value Measurement	'
	Fair Value Measurement
	The carrying amounts of certain of our financial instruments including cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable, accounts payable and accrued liabilities approximate fair value due to their short maturities. Short-term investments are comprised of available-for-sale securities, which are carried at fair value. Other non-current assets, which include auction rate securities, deferred compensation plan assets, and marketable equity securities are carried at fair value. Foreign exchange contracts are stated at fair value based on prevailing financial market information.
Concentration of Credit Risks and Certain Other Risks	'
	Concentration of Credit Risks and Certain Other Risks
	We sell our products primarily to large hospitals and distributors. Credit is extended to our customers; however credit risks are mitigated by our credit valuation process and reasonably short collection terms. We generally do not require collateral or other security to support accounts receivable and maintain allowances for potential credit losses. To date, credit losses have not been significant. Uncollectible accounts, if any, are written off against the allowance when it is deemed that a customer account is uncollectible.
	We place cash and cash equivalents in the custody of financial institutions that management believes are of high credit quality, which at times, may be in excess of the amount insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation. We also have short and long-term investments in municipal bonds, variable demand notes and auction rate securities, backed by U.S. Government or private insurers, which can be subject to certain credit risk. However, we mitigate the risks by investing in high-grade instruments, limiting our exposure to any one issuer, and monitoring the ongoing creditworthiness of the financial institutions and issuers.
	We operate internationally and have significant operations and assets in the United Kingdom and Switzerland. We remain exposed to changes in law (including changes that result from international treaties and accords) that could adversely affect our results, such as increases in taxes or government fees; price controls; changes in health, environmental and medical regulations or other laws that increase our cost of compliance or reduce or delay available business opportunities. We are subject to certain risks and uncertainties and believe that changes in any of the following areas could have a material adverse effect on future financial position or results of operations: counterparty credit risk in the current market environment; the ability to receive and maintain U.S. Food and Drug Administration ("FDA") and foreign regulatory authorities approval to manufacture, market and sell our products; our ability to adequately and timely address issues raised by FDA inspections; the ability to direct and manage current and future growth and physician acceptance of our current or future products; our reliance on specialized suppliers; the ability to manufacture products on an efficient and timely basis and at a reasonable cost and in sufficient volume, including the ability to obtain timely deliveries of parts from suppliers; our ability to identify and correct quality issues in a timely manner and at a reasonable cost; new product development and introduction, including FDA approval and market receptiveness; the ability to protect our proprietary technologies or an infringement by us of others' patents; the number of heart transplants conducted; our dependence upon distributors and any changes made to our method of distribution; competition from other products; worldwide demand for circulatory support and graft products and the management of risks inherent in selling in foreign countries; foreign currency fluctuations; the long and variable sales and deployment cycle of our mechanical circulatory support ("MCS") products; the willingness of third party payors to cover and provide appropriate levels of reimbursement for our products; the ability to realize the full value of our intangible assets; product liability or other claims; the ability to attract and retain talented employees; stock price volatility due to general economic conditions or future issuances and sales of our stock; the integration of any current and future acquisitions of companies or technologies; the occurrence of catastrophic disasters; the ability to maintain profitability; claims relating to the handling, storage or disposal of hazardous chemicals and biomaterials; changes in legal and accounting regulations and standards; changes in tax regulations; and limitations on potential acquisitions and price of our common stock.
Inventories	'
	Inventories
	Inventories are valued at the lower of cost (first-in, first-out) or market. Products may become obsolete due to market or economic conditions, technology changes, new product introductions or changes in strategic direction and may require estimates that include uncertain elements. Based on management's estimate, adjustments to reduce the value of inventory to its net realizable value, if required, are made for estimated excess or obsolete inventory or lower of cost of market.
Property, Plant, and Equipment	'
	Property, Plant, and Equipment
	Property, plant, and equipment are stated at cost, net of accumulated depreciation. Depreciation is computed using the straight-line method based on estimated useful lives of two to 30 years. Leasehold improvements are amortized over the lesser of the useful life or the remaining term of the lease. Property, plant, and equipment also include certain medical devices rented to customers. Depreciation expense of all rental equipment included in our rental program is recognized ratably over two to three years and is recorded in cost of product sales.
Valuation of Long-Lived Assets and Purchased Intangible Assets	'
	Valuation of Long-Lived Assets and Purchased Intangible Assets
	We evaluate the carrying value of long-lived assets, including purchased intangible assets (subject to amortization), whenever events, changes in business circumstances or our planned use of long-lived assets indicate that their carrying amounts may not be fully recoverable or that their useful lives are no longer appropriate. If these facts and circumstances exist, we assess for recovery by comparing the carrying values of long-lived assets with their future undiscounted net cash flows. If the comparison indicates that impairment exists, long-lived assets are written down to their respective fair value based on discounted cash flows. Significant management judgment is required in the forecast of future operating results that was used in the preparation of expected undiscounted cash flows. Product sales from our Thoratec Paracorporeal Ventricular Assist Device ("PVAD"), and Thoratec Implantable Ventricular Assist Device ("IVAD") product lines were $29.5 million and $28.1 million in fiscal 2010 and 2011, respectively, and significantly declined to $19.0 million in fiscal 2012 as a result of recent changes in the market in which these products compete. Accordingly, we assessed for recovery the associated purchased intangible assets with their future undiscounted net cash flows in the fourth quarter of 2012. The comparison resulted in the existence of impairment, and accordingly the purchased intangible assets were written down to the fair value totaling $12.6 million, resulting in an impairment charge of $50.2 million in 2012. Refer to Note 6 for further information. No impairment indicators were present for purchased intangible assets, including intangibles associated with the PVAD and IVAD product lines, in 2013 and 2011.
	We also evaluate the carrying value of intangible assets (not subject to amortization) related to in-process research and development ("IPR&D") assets, which are considered to be indefinite-lived until the completion or abandonment of the associated research and development efforts. Accordingly, amortization of the IPR&D assets will not occur until the product reaches commercialization. During the period the assets are considered indefinite-lived, they will be tested for impairment on an annual basis, as well as between annual tests if we become aware of any events occurring or changes in circumstances that would indicate that the fair values of the IPR&D assets are less than their carrying amounts. If and when development is complete, which generally occurs when regulatory approval to market the product is obtained, the associated IPR&D assets would be deemed definite-lived and would then be amortized based on their estimated useful lives at that point in time. If the related project is terminated or abandoned, we may have an impairment related to the IPR&D asset, calculated as the excess of their carrying value over fair value. No impairment of IPR&D assets was identified based on our annual assessment in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2013. There were no IPR&D assets in fiscal 2012 and 2011.
Goodwill	'
	Goodwill
	We test goodwill for impairment on an annual basis in the fourth quarter of each fiscal year or more frequently if we believe indicators of impairment exist. The performance of the test involves a two-step process. The first step requires comparing the fair value of the reporting unit to its net book value, including goodwill. A potential impairment exists if the fair value of the reporting unit is lower than its net book value. The second step of the process is only performed if a potential impairment exists, and it involves comparing the aggregate fair value of the reporting unit's net assets other than goodwill to the fair value of the reporting unit as a whole. Goodwill is considered impaired, and an impairment charge is recorded, if the excess of the fair value of the reporting unit over the fair value of the net assets is less than the carrying value of goodwill. We found no impairment as a result of our fiscal 2013, 2012, and 2011 annual impairment reviews, as the fair value of our reporting unit was in excess of the carrying value.
Deferred Compensation Plan	'
	Deferred Compensation Plan
	We established a non-qualified, unfunded deferred compensation plan for certain management employees and our Board of Directors. Amounts deferred and contributed under the deferred compensation plan are credited or charged with the performance of investment options offered under the plan as elected by the participants. The liability for compensation deferred under this plan is included in "Other long-term liabilities" on our consolidated balance sheets. We manage the risk of changes in the fair value of the liability for deferred compensation by electing to match the liability under the plan with an investment that offsets a substantial portion of our exposure. The investments associated with the deferred compensation plan are included in "Other long-term assets" on our consolidated balance sheets at the cash surrender value of our corporate owned life insurance policies and the fair value of the mutual fund investments. Changes in the cash surrender value of our corporate owned life insurance policies and the fair value of mutual fund investments are included in our consolidated statements of operations for all periods presented.
Revenue Recognition and Accounts Receivable	'
	Revenue Recognition and Accounts Receivable
	We recognize revenue from product sales to customers when persuasive evidence of an arrangement exists, the product has been delivered or service has been performed, the selling price is fixed or determinable, collection is reasonably assured, and there are no further obligations to customers. Delivery of the product is considered to have occurred generally when shipped. Sales from products are not subject to rights of return and, historically, actual sales returns have not been significant. We sell products through our direct sales force and through distributors. Sales through distributors are recognized as revenue upon sale to the distributor as these sales are considered to be final and no right of return or price protection exists. We recognize sales of certain products to first-time customers when it has been determined that the customer has the ability to use the products.
	Accounts receivable are recorded at the invoiced amount and do not bear interest. We maintain an allowance for doubtful accounts for estimated losses resulting from the inability of our customers to pay amounts due. The allowance for doubtful accounts is management's best estimate of the amount of probable credit losses in existing accounts receivable. We determine the allowance based on specific identification and historical write-off experience. Past due balances are reviewed individually for collectability. Account balances are charged off against the allowance when we believe it is probable the receivable will not be recovered.
Product Warranty	'
	Product Warranty
	The sales of our products generally include a limited one-year warranty on product quality. The estimated cost of product warranty claims is accrued at the time the sale is recognized, based on historical experience and other factors. For new product introductions in which we may not have any historical experience, we make our estimates for warranty claims based on a combination of historical experience of other similar products sold and qualitative and quantitative information. While we believe that historical experience provides a reliable basis for estimating such warranty cost, unforeseen quality issues or component failure rates could result in future costs in excess of such estimates, or alternatively, improved quality and reliability in our products could result in actual expenses that are below those currently estimated.
	The table below represents the changes in the warranty provision included in "Other accrued liabilities" on the consolidated balance sheets. The change in estimates was not significant for each of the fiscal years 2013, 2012, and 2011.
		2013			2012			2011
		(in thousands)
	Balance, beginning of the fiscal year	$	2,212		$	2,452		$	3,057
	Additions		10,464			1,492			1,922
	Settlements		(2,777	)		(1,732	)		(2,527	)
	Balance, end of the fiscal year	$	9,899		$	2,212		$	2,452
Advertising	'
	Advertising
	All advertising costs are expensed as incurred and are included in selling, general and administrative in the consolidated statements of operations. Advertising expenses were $5.8 million, $5.9 million, and $4.3 million for fiscal 2013, 2012, and 2011, respectively.
Research and Development Expense	'
	Research and Development Expense
	Research and development costs are charged to expense when incurred. Major components of research and development expenses consist of personnel costs, including salaries and benefits, and regulatory and clinical costs associated with our compliance with FDA regulations. Research and development costs are largely project driven, and the level of spending depends on the level of project activity planned and subsequently approved and conducted.
Share-Based Compensation	'
	Share-Based Compensation
	Share-based compensation expense is measured based on the grant-date fair value of the share-based awards. We recognize share-based compensation expense for the portion of the award that is expected to vest over the requisite service period for those awards. We develop an estimate of the number of share-based awards which will ultimately vest, primarily based on historical experience. The estimated forfeiture rate is reassessed periodically throughout the requisite service period. Such estimates are revised if they differ materially from actual forfeitures. As required, the forfeiture estimates will be adjusted to reflect actual forfeitures when an award vests. In addition, expected volatility is based on a combination of historical volatility trends and market-based implied volatility. We use the Black-Scholes option pricing model as the method for determining the estimated grant-date fair value of stock options and purchase rights under the ESPP. The Black-Scholes option pricing model requires the use of highly subjective and complex assumptions, which determine the fair value of share-based awards, including the option's expected term and the price volatility of the underlying stock.
	For restricted stock units, share-based compensation expense is calculated based on the fair value of our stock at the grant date.
Income Taxes	'
	Income Taxes
	Income taxes are recorded under the asset and liability method, which requires the recognition of deferred tax assets and liabilities for the expected future tax consequences of events that have been included in the consolidated financial statements. Under this method, deferred tax assets and liabilities are determined based on the differences between the consolidated financial statements and tax basis of assets and liabilities using enacted tax rates in effect for the year in which the differences are expected to reverse. The effect of a change in tax rates on deferred tax assets and liabilities is recognized in income in the period that includes the enactment date.
	We record net deferred tax assets to the extent we believe these assets will more likely than not be realized. In making such determination, we consider all available positive and negative evidence including future taxable income and ongoing prudent and feasible tax planning strategies. In the event we were to determine that we would be able to realize our deferred tax assets in the future in excess of our net recorded amount, an adjustment to the valuation allowance for the deferred tax asset would increase net income in the period such determination was made. Likewise, should we determine that we would not be able to realize all or part of our net deferred tax asset in the future, an adjustment to the valuation allowance for the deferred tax asset would be charged to net income in the period such determination was made.
	We record uncertain tax positions in accordance with accounting standards on the basis of a two-step process whereby (1) we determine whether it is more likely than not that the tax positions will be sustained based on the technical merits of the position and (2) those tax positions that meet the more-likely-than-not recognition threshold, we recognize the largest amount of tax benefit that is greater than 50% likely to be realized upon ultimate settlement with the related tax authority.
	We recognize interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits within the income tax expense line in the accompanying consolidated statements of operations. Accrued interest and penalties are included within the related tax liability line in the consolidated balance sheets.
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)	'
	Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
	Other comprehensive income (loss) includes net income, unrealized gains and losses on available-for-sale investments and foreign currency translation adjustments from continuing operations. There are no unrealized gains and losses on available-for-sale investments and foreign currency translation adjustments from discontinued operations.
Foreign Currency Translation	'
	Foreign Currency Translation
	All assets and liabilities of our non-U.S. operations are translated into U.S. dollars at the period-end exchange rates and the resulting translation adjustments are included in other comprehensive income. The functional currencies of our non-U.S. operations are generally designated in their respective local currencies. The period-end translation of the non-functional currency assets and liabilities at the period-end exchange rates result in foreign currency gains and losses, which are included in "interest income and other" in the consolidated statement of operations.

Operations_and_Summary_of_Sign2

Operations and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 28, 2013
Operations and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies	'
Changes in the warranty provision	'
		2013			2012			2011
		(in thousands)
	Balance, beginning of the fiscal year	$	2,212		$	2,452		$	3,057
	Additions		10,464			1,492			1,922
	Settlements		(2,777	)		(1,732	)		(2,527	)
	Balance, end of the fiscal year	$	9,899		$	2,212		$	2,452

Acquisition_of_DuraHeart_II_Ta

Acquisition of DuraHeart II (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 28, 2013
Acquisition of DuraHeart II	'
Schedule of preliminary purchase price consideration	'
	Total preliminary purchase price consideration was as follows (in thousands):
	Cash paid at the acquisition closing date (June 30, 2013)	$	13,000
	Estimated fair value of contingent consideration		18,800
	Total estimated purchase price	$	31,800
Summary of preliminary purchase price allocation as of the acquisition date	'
	Preliminary Purchase Price Allocation as of the acquisition date is summarized as follows (in thousands):
	Property, plant and equipment	$	8,900
	Identifiable intangible assets:
	Favorable lease contract		600
	IPR&D asset		12,400
	Goodwill		9,900
	Total estimated purchase price consideration		31,800
	Less: Contingent consideration		18,800
	Cash paid at the acquisition closing	$	13,000
Schedule of pro forma financial information	'
		Fiscal 2013		Fiscal 2012
		(in thousands)
	Product sales	$	502,821	$	491,654
	Income before taxes		85,086		43,645
	Net income		62,543		31,703

Fair_Value_Measurements_and_Fa1

Fair Value Measurements and Fair Value of Financial Instruments (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 28, 2013
Fair Value Measurements and Fair Value of Financial Instruments	'
Financial assets and financial liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis	'
		Total Fair			Quoted Prices in			Significant			Significant
		Value			Active Markets			Other			Unobservable
					(Level 1)			Observable			Inputs
								Inputs			(Level 3)
								(Level 2)
		(in thousands)
	At December 28, 2013:
	Cash equivalents:
	Money market funds	$	97,200		$	97,200		$	—		$	—
	Commercial paper		13,899			—			13,899			—
	Short-term investments:
	Municipal bonds		142,486			—			142,486			—
	Variable demand notes		6,700			—			6,700			—
	Corporate bonds		5,507			—			5,507			—
	Commercial paper		9,998			—			9,998			—
	Certificate of deposit		2,000			—			2,000			—
	Prepaid expenses and other assets:
	Foreign exchange contracts		592			—			592			—
	Long-term investments:
	Auction rate securities		4,234			—			—			4,234
	Other long-term assets:
	Investments included in our deferred compensation plan		1,700			—			1,700			—
	Marketable equity securities		4,019			4,019			—			—
	Other accrued liabilities:
	Foreign exchange contracts		156			—			156			—
	Contingent consideration (current and long-term portions)	$	43,346		$	—		$	—		$	43,346
		Total Fair			Quoted Prices in			Significant			Significant
		Value			Active Markets			Other			Unobservable
					(Level 1)			Observable			Inputs
								Inputs			(Level 3)
								(Level 2)
		(in thousands)
	At December 29, 2012:
	Assets
	Cash equivalents:
	Money market funds	$	59,230		$	59,230		$	—		$	—
	Commercial paper		4,998			—			4,998			—
	Municipal bonds		3,045			—			3,045			—
	Corporate bonds		380			—			380			—
	Short-term investments:
	Municipal bonds		107,533			—			107,533			—
	Variable demand notes		21,330			—			21,330			—
	Corporate bonds		12,258			—			12,258			—
	Commercial paper		5,299			—			5,299			—
	Certificate of deposit		2,006			—			2,006			—
	Prepaid expenses and other assets:
	Foreign exchange contracts		16			—			16			—
	Long-term investments:
	Auction rate securities		10,607			—			—			10,607
	Other long-term assets:
	Investments included in our deferred compensation plan		1,731			—			1,731			—
	Marketable equity securities		2,602			2,602			—			—
	Other accrued liabilities
	Foreign exchange contracts		380			—			380			—
	Contingent consideration (current and long-term portions)	$	22,052		$	—		$	—		$	22,052
Summary of aggregate market value, cost basis and gross unrealized gains and losses for available-for-sale investments	'
		Amortized			Gross			Gross			Fair
		Cost			Unrealized			Unrealized			Value
					Gains			Losses
		(in thousands)
	At December 28, 2013:
	Short-term investments:
	Municipal bonds	$	142,321		$	178		$	(13	)	$	142,486
	Variable demand notes		6,700			—			—			6,700
	Corporate bonds		5,500			7			—			5,507
	Commercial paper		9,998			—			—			9,998
	Certificate of deposit		2,000			—			—			2,000
	Total short-term investments	$	166,519		$	185		$	(13	)	$	166,691
	Long-term investments:
	Auction rate securities	$	4,900		$	—		$	(666	)	$	4,234
	Other long-term assets:
	Marketable equity securities		2,996			1,023			—			4,019
	Total long-term	$	7,896		$	1,023		$	(666	)	$	8,253
	At December 29, 2012:
	Short-term investments:
	Municipal bonds	$	107,416		$	136		$	(19	)	$	107,533
	Variable demand notes		21,330			—			—			21,330
	Corporate bonds		12,244			17			(3	)		12,258
	Commercial paper		5,298			1			—			5,299
	Certificate of deposit		2,000			6			—			2,006
	Total short-term investments	$	148,288		$	160		$	(22	)	$	148,426
	Long-term investments:
	Auction rate securities	$	11,900		$	—		$	(1,293	)	$	10,607
	Other long-term assets:
	Marketable equity securities(A)		2,996			—			(394	)		2,602
	Total long-term	$	14,896		$	—		$	(1,687	)	$	13,209
	(A)
	As of December 29, 2012, our available-for-sale equity securities have been in a continuous loss position less than 12 months.
Schedule of amortized cost and fair value of available-for-sale debt investments, by contractual maturity	'
		Amortized			Fair
		Cost			Value
		(in thousands)
	At December 28, 2013:
	Maturing within 1 year	$	138,451		$	138,572
	Maturing after 1 year through 5 years		28,068			28,119
	Short-term available-for-sale investments		166,519			166,691
	Maturing after 5 years		4,900			4,234
		$	171,419		$	170,925
	At December 29, 2012:
	Maturing within 1 year	$	107,621		$	107,665
	Maturing after 1 year through 5 years		40,667			40,761
	Short-term available-for-sale investments		148,288			148,426
	Maturing after 5 years		11,900			10,607
		$	160,188		$	159,033
Schedule of roll forward of fair value, as determined by Level 3 inputs, of auction rate securities and contingent consideration (current and long-term portions)	'
		Auction rate
		securities
		2013			2012
		(in thousands)
	Balance, beginning of the fiscal year	$	10,607		$	16,090
	Settlements at par		(7,000	)		(7,000	)
	Change in unrealized gains (loss) included in other comprehensive income		627			1,517
	Balance, end of the fiscal year	$	4,234		$	10,607
		Contingent
		consideration
		2013			2012
		(in thousands)
	Balance, beginning of the fiscal year	$	22,052		$	23,570
	Payments		(4,220	)		(1,518	)
	Additions (See Note 2)		18,800			—
	Change in fair value		6,714			—
	Balance, end of the fiscal year	$	43,346		$	22,052
Schedule of quantitative information for Level 3 Fair Value Measurements	'
		Fair Value at			Valuation Methodology		Significant Unobservable Input		Weighted Average
		December 28,							(range, if applicable)
		2013
		(in thousands)
	Auction rate securities	$	4,234		Discounted cash flow		Discount rate		1.74%
							Market credit spread		2.86%
							Liquidity factor		0.00%
	Levitronix Medical Contingent consideration	$	22,253				Annual Revenue
					Multiple outcome				$42.8 million ($31.5 million to
					discounted cash flow				$49.9 million)
							Discount rate		1.10% (0.8% to 1.51%)
							Probability of occurrence		20% (2.5% to 50%)
	DuraHeart II Contingent consideration	$	21,093		Multiple outcome discounted cash flow		Milestone dates		2016 to 2029
							Discount rate		5.3% to 20.0%
							Probability of occurrence		1% to 74%

Foreign_Exchange_Instruments_T

Foreign Exchange Instruments (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 28, 2013
Foreign Exchange Instruments	'
Schedule of notional amount of foreign currency contracts, which do not qualify for hedge accounting	'
		2013			2012
	Forward contracts:
	Euro (sell)	€	20.2 million		€	13.9 million
	British Pound Sterling (sell)	£	1.3 million		£	1.8 million
	U.S. Dollar (sell)	$	23.5 million		$	5.3 million
	U.S. Dollar (buy)	$	60.0 million		$	73.5 million
Schedule of derivative instruments measured at gross fair value reported on the consolidated balance sheets	'
		At December 28, 2013						At December 29, 2012
		Prepaid expenses			Other accrued			Prepaid expenses			Other accrued
		and other assets			liabilities			and other assets			liabilities
		(in thousands)
	Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments (forward contracts)	$	592		$	156		$	16		$	380
Schedule of effect of derivative instruments not designated as hedging instruments and foreign currency transactions gains and losses	'
		2013			2012			2011
		(in thousands)
	Foreign currency exchange gain (loss) on foreign contracts	$	(1,480	)	$	(1,921	)	$	305
	Foreign currency transactions gain (loss)	$	1,814		$	2,046		$	(657	)

Balance_Sheet_Information_Tabl

Balance Sheet Information (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 28, 2013
Balance Sheet Information	'
Schedule of Inventories	'
		2013			2012
		(in thousands)
	Finished goods	$	22,885		$	15,087
	Work-in-process		13,739			11,020
	Raw materials		23,669			20,993
	Total	$	60,293		$	47,100
Schedule of Property, Plant and Equipment, net	'
		2013			2012
		(in thousands)
	Land, building and improvements	$	20,594		$	20,543
	Equipment and capitalized software		61,383			46,290
	Furniture and leasehold improvements		22,458			20,933
	Total property, plant and equipment		104,435			87,766
	Less accumulated depreciation and amortization		(49,272	)		(41,874	)
	Total property, plant and equipment, net	$	55,163		$	45,892
Schedule of changes in accumulated other comprehensive loss by component	'
		Foreign currency			Unrealized			Total
		items(A)			gain (loss) on
					available-for-sale
					securities(A)
		(in thousands)
	Balance at December 31, 2011	$	(16,369	)	$	(1,664	)	$	(18,033	)
	Other comprehensive gain before reclassification		2,441			523			2,964
	Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss		—			—			—
	Net current period other comprehensive gain		2,441			523			2,964
	Balance at December 29, 2012		(13,928	)		(1,141	)		(15,069	)
	Other comprehensive gain before reclassification		889			1,677			2,566
	Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss		—			—			—
	Net current period other comprehensive gain		889			1,677			2,566
	Balance at December 28, 2013	$	(13,039	)	$	536		$	(12,503	)
	(A)
	All amounts are net of tax.

Goodwill_and_Purchased_Intangi1

Goodwill and Purchased Intangible Assets, net (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 28, 2013
Goodwill and Purchased Intangible Assets, net	'
Schedule of changes in carrying amount of goodwill	'
		2013		2012
		(in thousands)
	Balance, beginning of the fiscal year	$	194,182	$	191,193
	Goodwill additions		9,900		690
	Foreign currency translation impact		1,682		2,299
	Balance, end of fiscal year	$	205,764	$	194,182
Schedule of intangible assets on the condensed consolidated balance sheets	'
		At December 28, 2013
		Gross		Accumulated			Accumulated			Net
		Amount		Amortization			Impairment			Amount
		(in thousands)
	Intangible assets subject to amortization:
	Patents and trademarks	$	43,532	$	(34,755	)	$	—		$	8,777
	Core technology		37,180		(22,986	)		(12,642	)		1,552
	Developed technology		128,073		(81,635	)		(37,600	)		8,838
	Pre-existing license agreement		2,300		(794	)		—			1,506
	Customer based relationships and other		7,246		(4,043	)		—			3,203
	Foreign currency translation impact		127		—			—			127
			218,458		(144,213	)		(50,242	)		24,003
	Intangible assets not yet subject to amortization:
	IPR&D (see Note 2)		12,400		—			—			12,400
	Total purchased intangible assets	$	230,858	$	(144,213	)	$	(50,242	)	$	36,403
		At December 29, 2012
		Gross		Accumulated			Accumulated			Net
		Amount		Amortization			Impairment			Amount
		(in thousands)
	Intangible assets subject to amortization:
	Patents and trademarks	$	43,475	$	(33,463	)	$	—		$	10,012
	Core technology		37,180		(21,388	)		(12,642	)		3,150
	Developed technology		127,940		(76,379	)		(37,600	)		13,961
	Pre-existing license agreement		2,300		(465	)		—			1,835
	Customer based relationships and other		6,578		(2,220	)		—			4,358
	Foreign currency translation impact		255		—			—			255
	Total purchased intangible assets	$	217,728	$	(133,915	)	$	(50,242	)	$	33,571
Schedule of estimated amortization expense for the next five fiscal years and all years thereafter	'
		(in thousands)
	Fiscal year:
	2014	$	7,275
	2015		4,811
	2016		3,481
	2017		2,577
	2018		2,197
	Thereafter		3,662
	Total	$	24,003

Commitments_and_Contingencies_

Commitments and Contingencies (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 28, 2013
Commitments and Contingencies.	'
Schedule of future minimum lease payments for the next five years and thereafter	'
		(in thousands)
	Fiscal year ended:
	2014	$	2,883
	2015		2,812
	2016		2,656
	2017		2,476
	2018		2,486
	Thereafter		17,392
	Total	$	30,705

Debt_and_Other_Financing_Arran1

Debt and Other Financing Arrangements (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 28, 2013
Debt and Other Financing Arrangements	'
Schedule of interest expense which primarily includes interest and amortization of discount related to senior subordinated convertible notes	'
		Fiscal Years
		2013		2012		2011
		(in thousands)
	Interest expense—cash component	$	—	$	—	$	1,259
	Interest expense—non-cash component		—		—		3,127

ShareBased_Compensation_Tables

Share-Based Compensation (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 28, 2013
Share-Based Compensation.	'
Schedule of share-based compensation	'
		Fiscal Years
		2013			2012			2011
		(in thousands)
	Cost of product sales	$	2,365		$	2,130		$	1,543
	Selling, general and administrative		16,897			13,235			10,387
	Research and development		7,735			6,327			4,171
	Total share-based compensation expense before taxes		26,997			21,692			16,101
	Tax benefit for share-based compensation expense		10,083			8,501			5,688
	Total share-based compensation expense (net of taxes)	$	16,914		$	13,191		$	10,413
Schedule of assumptions used to estimate the grant date fair value of options	'
		Fiscal Years
		2013		2012		2011
	Risk-free interest rate	1.40%		1.40%		2.71%
	Expected volatility	37%		43%		44%
	Expected option life	4.92 - 5.71 years		4.76 - 5.84 years		4.69 - 5.33 years
	Dividends	None		None		None
Summary of stock option activity	'
		Number of			Weighted			Weighted
		Options			Average			Average
		(in thousands)			Exercise			Remaining
					Price			Contract
					Per Share			Life (years)
	Outstanding as of January 1, 2011 (1,883 exercisable at $17.60 weighted average price per share)		2,694		$	19.81			5.05
	Granted		643			27.72
	Cancelled and expired		(112	)		24.11
	Exercised		(687	)		16.72
	Outstanding as of December 31, 2011 (1,484 exercisable at $19.04 weighted average price per share)		2,538		$	22.46			5.96
	Granted		602			33.74
	Cancelled and expired		(76	)		31.13
	Exercised		(566	)		17.78
	Outstanding as of December 29, 2012 (1,265 exercisable at $21.29 weighted average price per share)		2,498		$	25.98			6.27
	Granted		596			35.7
	Cancelled and expired		(74	)		32.45
	Exercised		(759	)		21.97
	Outstanding as of December 28, 2013		2,261		$	29.68			6.95
Summary of options outstanding that have vested or are expected to vest and are exercisable	'
		Number of			Weighted			Weighted			Aggregate
		Shares			Average			Average			Intrinsic
					Exercise			Remaining			Value
					Price			Contractual
								Term
		(in thousands)						(in years)			(in millions)
	Vested or expected to vest		2,198		$	29.55			6.9		$	14.6
	Exercisable		926		$	24.57			4.9		$	10.7
Summary of information on options outstanding and exercisable, by exercise price range	'
		Options Outstanding									Options Exercisable
		(in thousands, except contractual life and exercise price)
	Exercise Price Range	Number			Weighted			Weighted			Number		Weighted
					Average			Average					Average
					Remaining			Exercise					Exercise
					Contractual Life			Price					Price
					(In Years)
	$8.52 - $23.93		482			2.96		$	19.55			482	$	19.55
	$24.35 - $29.81		633			6.82			28.1			311		28.32
	$30.44 - $33.99		548			8.22			33.61			123		33.62
	$34.50 - $35.10		18			8.39			34.81			5		34.83
	$35.68 - $43.30		580			9.17			35.93			5		42.89
			2,261			6.95		$	29.68			926	$	24.57
Summary of restricted stock unit activity	'
		Number of			Weighted			Weighted
		Units			Average			Average
		(in thousands)			Grant Date			Remaining
					Fair Value			Contract
								(in Years)
	Outstanding units as of January 1, 2011		688			28.86			1.53
	Granted		736			28.73
	Released		(209	)		28.25
	Forfeited or expired		(64	)		27.94
	Outstanding units as of December 31, 2011		1,151			28.88			1.5
	Granted		730			34.22
	Released		(327	)		28.54
	Forfeited or expired		(92	)		30.74
	Outstanding units as of December 29, 2012		1,462			31.52			1.37
	Granted		649			35.3
	Released		(553	)		30.74
	Forfeited or expired		(97	)		32.91
	Outstanding units as of December 28, 2013		1,461			33.4			1.27
Schedule of assumptions used to estimate subscription date fair value of the ESPP offerings	'
		Fiscal Years
		2013			2012			2011
	Risk-free interest rate		0.08	%		0.15	%		0.05	%
	Expected volatility		29	%		39	%		36	%
	Expected option life		0.50 years			0.50 years			0.50 years
	Dividends		None			None			None

Income_Taxes_Tables

Income Taxes (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 28, 2013
Income Taxes	'
Schedule of significant components of income taxes	'
		Fiscal Years
		2013			2012			2011
		(in thousands)
	Continuing operations:
	Current:
	Federal	$	25,909		$	37,056		$	34,453
	State		2,942			5,584			4,770
	Foreign		7,224			6,348			2,483
			36,075			48,988			41,706
	Deferred:
	Federal		(9,363	)		(24,536	)		(1,167	)
	State		(503	)		(3,280	)		(433	)
	Foreign		220			(18	)		(810	)
			(9,646	)		(27,834	)		(2,410	)
	Total income tax expense—continuing operations	$	26,429		$	21,154		$	39,296
	Discontinued operations:
	Current:
	Federal	$	—		$	—		$	(605	)
	State		—			—			(151	)
			—			—			(756	)
	Deferred:
	Federal		—			—			—
	State		—			—			(15	)
	Foreign		—			—			—
			—			—			(15	)
	Total income tax expense (benefit)—discontinued operations	$	—		$	—		$	(771	)
Schedule of income before taxes generated from geographic areas	'
		Fiscal Years
		2013			2012			2011
		(in thousands)
	Continuing operations:
	Domestic	$	73,766		$	50,351		$	108,733
	Foreign		25,989			26,966			3,138
	Total—continuing operations	$	99,755		$	77,317		$	111,871
	Discontinued operations:
	Domestic	$	—		$	—		$	(1,802	)
	Total income from operations before taxes	$	99,755		$	77,317		$	110,069
Schedule of reconciliation of income taxes at the U.S. federal statutory income tax rate to income before taxes	'
		Fiscal Years
		2013						2012					2011
		(in thousands, except percentages)
	Continuing operations:
	U.S. federal statutory income tax expense	$	34,914			35	%	$	27,061		35	%	$	39,155		35	%
	State income tax expense, net of federal tax benefit		1,286			1.3			573		0.7			2,425		2.2
	Non-deductible expenses		(93	)		(0.1	)		(326	)	(0.4	)		314		0.3
	Research and development credits		(4,676	)		(4.7	)		—		—			(2,119	)	(1.9	)
	Foreign earnings permanently reinvested		(1,891	)		(1.9	)		(2,348	)	(3.0	)		(63	)	(0.1	)
	Tax advantaged investment income		(211	)		(0.2	)		(294	)	(0.4	)		(717	)	(0.6	)
	Return-to-provision true-up		395			0.4			(563	)	(0.7	)		(63	)	(0.1	)
	Levitronix Medical U.S. deferred tax asset write-off		—			—			—		—			862		0.8
	Compensation limitation write-down		638			0.6			536		0.7			859		0.7
	Domestic production activities		(2,698	)		(2.7	)		(3,225	)	(4.2	)		(2,820	)	(2.5	)
	Valuation allowance		(127	)		(0.1	)		(4	)	—			(45	)	—
	Other		112			0.1			(319	)	(0.4	)		(72	)	(0.1	)
	Tax reserves		(1,220	)		(1.2	)		63		0.1			1,580		1.4
	Total income tax expense from continuing operations	$	26,429			26.5	%	$	21,154		27.4	%	$	39,296		35.1	%
Schedule of significant components of deferred tax assets and liabilities for continuing operations	'
		December 28, 2013			December 29, 2012
		(in thousands)
	Deferred tax assets:
	Reserves and accruals	$	9,822		$	6,875
	Depreciation and amortization		4,404			25
	Inventory basis difference		3,051			3,287
	Share-based compensation		11,114			9,151
	Research and development and other credit carry forwards		4,908			4,198
	Capital loss carryovers		4,644			4,768
	Other, net		530			1,269
	Total deferred tax assets		38,473			29,573
	Valuation allowance		(4,644	)		(4,768	)
			33,829			24,805
	Deferred tax liabilities:
	Purchased intangibles		(6,459	)		(7,025	)
	Other, net		(304	)		(95	)
	Total deferred tax liabilities		(6,763	)		(7,120	)
	Net deferred tax assets	$	27,066		$	17,685
	Reported As:
	Current deferred tax assets	$	15,161		$	10,626
	Other long-term assets—deferred tax assets		14,331			9,839
	Short-term deferred tax liabilities included in other accrued liabilities		(202	)		—
	Net long-term deferred tax liabilities		(2,224	)		(2,780	)
	Net deferred tax assets	$	27,066		$	17,685
Schedule of reconciliation of the beginning and ending amount of gross unrecognized tax benefits from continuing operations	'
		Fiscal Years
		2013			2012			2011
		(in thousands)
	Balance at beginning of fiscal year	$	9,965		$	10,652		$	10,780
	Gross increases for tax positions related to the current year		2,240			912			2,621
	Gross increases for tax positions related to prior years		1,418			282			410
	Gross decreases for tax positions related to prior years		(466	)		(1,069	)		(718	)
	Settlements		(2,528	)		(3	)		(1,948	)
	Lapse of statute of limitations		(2,699	)		(809	)		(493	)
	Balance at end of fiscal year	$	7,930		$	9,965		$	10,652
Schedule of classifying interest and penalties associated with unrecognized income tax benefits	'
		Fiscal Years
		2013			2012			2011
		(in thousands)
	Interest	$	(198	)	$	27		$	165
	Penalties		(31	)		22			35
Schedule of interest and penalties accrued on the consolidated balance sheets	'
		2013			2012
		(in thousands)
	Interest	$	233		$	430
	Penalties		37			68

Segment_Disclosure_Tables

Segment Disclosure (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 28, 2013
Segment Disclosure	'
Schedule of product sales by geographic location	'
		Fiscal Years
		2013		2012		2011
		(in thousands)
	Product sales by geographic location:
	Domestic (i.e. United States)	$	390,450	$	400,526	$	347,553
	International		112,371		91,128		75,160
	Total	$	502,821	$	491,654	$	422,713
Schedule of product sales by product line	'
		Fiscal Years
		2013		2012		2011
		(in thousands)
	Product sales by product line:
	HeartMate	$	444,376	$	434,546	$	366,321
	Thoratec		12,482		19,035		28,165
	CentriMag		43,340		35,723		25,729
	Other		2,623		2,350		2,498
	Total	$	502,821	$	491,654	$	422,713
Schedule of product sales by category	'
		Fiscal Years
		2013		2012		2011
		(in thousands)
	Product sales by category:
	Pump	$	355,266	$	356,310	$	298,246
	Non-pump		144,932		132,994		121,975
	Other		2,623		2,350		2,492
	Total	$	502,821	$	491,654	$	422,713

Earnings_Per_Share_Tables

Earnings Per Share (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 28, 2013
Earnings Per Share	'
Schedule of Basic and diluted income per common share attributable to common shareholders under the two-class method	'
		Fiscal Years
		2013		2012			2011
		(in thousands, except per
		share data)
	Basic net income per common share calculation
	Income from continuing operations	$	73,326	$	56,163		$	72,575
	Income from continuing operations allocated to participating securities		—		(12	)		(123	)
	Income from continuing operations attributable to common shareholders	$	73,326	$	56,151		$	72,452
	Loss from discontinued operations	$	—	$	—		$	(1,031	)
	Loss from discontinued operations allocated to participating securities		—		—			1
	Loss from discontinued operations attributable to common shareholders	$	—	$	—		$	(1,030	)
	Net income	$	73,326	$	56,163		$	71,544
	Net income allocated to participating securities		—		(12	)		(122	)
	Net income attributable to common shareholders	$	73,326	$	56,151		$	71,422
	Weighted average number of common shares used to compute basic income per common share		57,332		58,563			58,777
	Basic net income (loss) per common share
	Continuing operations	$	1.28	$	0.96		$	1.23
	Discontinued operations	$	—	$	—		$	(0.02	)
	Total	$	1.28	$	0.96		$	1.21
	Diluted net income per common share calculation
	Income from continuing operations	$	73,326	$	56,163		$	72,575
	Interest expense on senior subordinated convertible notes (after tax)		—		—			2,719
	Income from continuing operations allocated to participating securities		—		(12	)		(133	)
	Income from continuing operations attributable to common shareholders	$	73,326	$	56,151		$	75,161
	Loss from discontinued operations	$	—	$	—		$	(1,031	)
	Loss from discontinued operations allocated to participating securities		—		—			1
	Loss from discontinued operations attributable to common shareholders	$	—	$	—		$	(1,030	)
	Net income	$	73,326	$	56,163		$	71,544
	Interest expense on senior subordinated convertible notes (after tax)		—		—			2,719
	Net income allocated to participating securities		—		(12	)		(132	)
	Net income attributable to common shareholders	$	73,326	$	56,151		$	74,131
	Weighted average number of common shares used to compute basic net income per common share attributable to common shares		57,332		58,563			58,777
	Dilutive effect of share-based compensation plans		992		1,017			916
	Dilutive effect on conversion of senior subordinated convertible notes		—		—			2,831
	Weighted average number of common shares used to compute diluted net income per common share		58,324		59,580			62,524
	Diluted net income (loss) per common share
	Continuing operations	$	1.26	$	0.94		$	1.2
	Discontinued operations	$	—	$	—		$	(0.01	)
	Total	$	1.26	$	0.94		$	1.19
Schedule of potential common share equivalents excluded where the inclusion would be anti-dilutive	'
		Fiscal Years
		2013		2012			2011
		(in thousands)
	Options to purchase shares not included in the computation of diluted net income per common share because their inclusion would be antidilutive		526		535			551

Quarterly_Results_of_Operation1

Quarterly Results of Operations (Unaudited) (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 28, 2013
Quarterly Results of Operations (Unaudited)	'
Summary of unaudited quarterly results of operations	'
		First		Second		Third		Fourth
		(in thousands, except per share data)
	Fiscal Year 2013:
	Product sales	$	117,725	$	130,479	$	126,444	$	128,173
	Gross profit		82,652		89,479		85,486		81,652
	Net income		18,170		23,189		18,904		13,063
	Basic net income per common share	$	0.32	$	0.4	$	0.33	$	0.23
	Diluted net income per common share	$	0.31	$	0.4	$	0.32	$	0.23
	Fiscal Year 2012:
	Product sales	$	126,769	$	118,659	$	117,768	$	128,458
	Gross profit(1)		87,882		82,637		81,606		39,250
	Net income (loss)		25,486		20,808		24,255		(14,386	)
	Basic net income (loss) per common share	$	0.44	$	0.35	$	0.41	$	(0.25	)
	Diluted net income (loss) per common share	$	0.43	$	0.35	$	0.41	$	(0.25	)
	-1
	Gross profit in the fourth quarter of 2012 includes an impairment charge of $50.2 million. Refer to Note 6 above for additional discussion of the impairment charge in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

Operations_and_Summary_of_Sign3

Operations and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 28, 2013	Dec. 29, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Basis of presentation	'	'	'
Length of fiscal year, minimum	'364 days	'	'
Length of fiscal year, maximum	'371 days	'	'
Length of fiscal year	'364 days	'364 days	'364 days
Minimum	'	'	'
Property, plant and equipment, net	'	'	'
Estimated useful lives	'2 years	'	'
Maximum	'	'	'
Property, plant and equipment, net	'	'	'
Estimated useful lives	'30 years	'	'
Rental equipment | Minimum	'	'	'
Property, plant and equipment, net	'	'	'
Estimated useful lives	'2 years	'	'
Rental equipment | Maximum	'	'	'
Property, plant and equipment, net	'	'	'
Estimated useful lives	'3 years	'	'

Operations_and_Summary_of_Sign4

Operations and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Details 2) (USD $)

3 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

Dec. 28, 2013

Sep. 28, 2013

Jun. 29, 2013

Mar. 30, 2013

Dec. 29, 2012

Sep. 29, 2012

Jun. 30, 2012

Mar. 31, 2012

Dec. 28, 2013

Dec. 29, 2012

Dec. 31, 2011

Dec. 28, 2013

Dec. 29, 2012

Dec. 31, 2011

Jan. 01, 2011

Thoratec

Thoratec

Thoratec

Thoratec

Valuation of Long-Lived Assets and Purchased Intangible Assets

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Impairment charge

'

'

'

'

$50,200,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Impairment of IPR&D assets

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

0

'

'

'

'

'

'

Goodwill

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Impairment of goodwill

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

0

0

0

'

'

'

'

Product Warranty

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Product warranty period, maximum

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'1 year

'

'

'

'

'

'

Changes in the warranty provision

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Balance, beginning of the fiscal year

'

'

'

2,212,000

'

'

'

2,452,000

2,212,000

2,452,000

3,057,000

'

'

'

'

Additions

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

10,464,000

1,492,000

1,922,000

'

'

'

'

Settlements

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

-2,777,000

-1,732,000

-2,527,000

'

'

'

'

Balance, end of the fiscal year

9,899,000

'

'

'

2,212,000

'

'

'

9,899,000

2,212,000

2,452,000

'

'

'

'

Advertising

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Advertising costs

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

5,800,000

5,900,000

4,300,000

'

'

'

'

Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Unrealized gains and losses on available-for-sale investments from discontinued operations

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

0

'

'

'

'

'

'

Foreign currency translation adjustments from discontinued operations

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

0

'

'

'

'

'

'

Segment Information

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Product sales

128,173,000

126,444,000

130,479,000

117,725,000

128,458,000

117,768,000

118,659,000

126,769,000

502,821,000

491,654,000

422,713,000

12,482,000

19,035,000

28,165,000

29,500,000

Fair value of intangible assets

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

$12,600,000

'

'

Acquisition_of_DuraHeart_II_De

Acquisition of DuraHeart II (Details) (USD $)

12 Months Ended

0 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

0 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

0 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

0 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

Dec. 28, 2013

Dec. 29, 2012

Dec. 31, 2011

Jul. 02, 2013

Dec. 28, 2013

Jun. 29, 2013

Jul. 02, 2013

Jul. 02, 2013

Jul. 02, 2013

Dec. 28, 2013

Dec. 28, 2013

Dec. 28, 2013

Jul. 02, 2013

Jul. 02, 2013

Jul. 02, 2013

Dec. 28, 2013

Jul. 02, 2013

DuraHeart II Acquisition

DuraHeart II Acquisition

DuraHeart II Acquisition

DuraHeart II Acquisition

DuraHeart II Acquisition

DuraHeart II Acquisition

DuraHeart II Acquisition

DuraHeart II Acquisition

DuraHeart II Acquisition

DuraHeart II Acquisition

DuraHeart II Acquisition

DuraHeart II Acquisition

DuraHeart II Acquisition

DuraHeart II Acquisition

IPR&D asset

Favorable lease contract

Contingent consideration payable upon reaching regulatory milestone

Contingent consideration payable upon reaching regulatory milestone

Contingent consideration payable upon reaching regulatory milestone

Contingent consideration payable upon reaching regulatory milestone

Contingent consideration payable upon CE Mark approval

Contingent consideration payable upon FDA approval

Contingent consideration payable upon reaching commercial sales milestone

Contingent consideration payable upon reaching commercial sales milestone

Maximum

Selling, general and administrative expense

Research and development

Acquisition of DuraHeart II

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Cash paid

'

'

'

$13,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Potential future milestone payments

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

5,500,000

10,500,000

27,500,000

'

43,500,000

Acquisition-related costs

'

'

'

'

2,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Goodwill

205,764,000

194,182,000

191,193,000

9,900,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Goodwill recorded as a result of business acquisition that is deductible for income tax purposes

'

'

'

9,900,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Revenue

'

'

'

'

0

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Net loss

'

'

'

'

-4,400,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Fair value of non-current contingent consideration liability

36,384,000

17,832,000

'

18,800,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Total preliminary purchase price consideration

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Cash paid

'

'

'

13,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Estimated fair value of contingent consideration

'

'

'

18,800,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Total estimated purchase price

'

'

'

31,800,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Discount rate (as a percent)

'

'

'

'

'

'

22.50%

'

5.30%

'

'

'

'

'

20.00%

'

'

Increase in fair value of contingent consideration

6,714,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

2,300,000

1,400,000

900,000

'

'

'

200,000

'

Summary of purchase price allocation

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Property, plant and equipment

'

'

'

8,900,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Finite-lived identifiable intangible assets

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

600,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Indefinite-lived identifiable intangible assets

'

'

'

'

'

'

12,400,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Goodwill

205,764,000

194,182,000

191,193,000

9,900,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Total estimated purchase price consideration

'

'

'

31,800,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Less: Contingent consideration

'

'

'

18,800,000

2,300,000

43,500,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Cash paid at the acquisition closing

'

'

'

13,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Weighted average cost of capital (as a percent)

'

'

'

'

'

'

22.50%

'

5.30%

'

'

'

'

'

20.00%

'

'

Equipment expected to be primarily used in the production of units in anticipation of future clinical trials

'

'

'

8,100,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Acquisition related transaction costs

2,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Acquisition related transaction costs excluded from 2013 pro forma results

2,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Pro forma financial information

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Product sales

502,821,000

491,654,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Income before taxes

85,086,000

43,645,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Net income

$62,543,000

$31,703,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Fair_Value_Measurements_and_Fa2

Fair Value Measurements and Fair Value of Financial Instruments (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 28, 2013	Dec. 29, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Financial assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis	'	'	'
Transfers between the levels within the fair value hierarchy	$0	$0	$0
Liabilities:	'	'	'
Cash flow model discount period	'5 years	'	'
Commercial Paper	'	'	'
Assets:	'	'	'
Investments	9,998	5,299	'
Municipal bonds	'	'	'
Assets:	'	'	'
Investments	142,486	107,533	'
Variable demand notes	'	'	'
Assets:	'	'	'
Investments	6,700	21,330	'
Corporate bonds	'	'	'
Assets:	'	'	'
Investments	5,507	12,258	'
Long-term investments - auction rate securities	'	'	'
Assets:	'	'	'
Investments	4,234	10,607	'
Certificate of deposit	'	'	'
Assets:	'	'	'
Investments	2,000	2,006	'
Marketable equity securities	'	'	'
Assets:	'	'	'
Investments	4,019	2,602	'
Recurring basis | Total fair value	'	'	'
Assets:	'	'	'
Prepaid expenses and other assets - Foreign exchange contracts	592	16	'
Other long term assets: Carrying value of investments included in our deferred compensation plan	1,700	1,731	'
Liabilities:	'	'	'
Other accrued liabilities - Foreign exchange contracts	156	380	'
Contingent consideration (current and long-term portions)	43,346	22,052	'
Recurring basis | Total fair value | Money market funds	'	'	'
Assets:	'	'	'
Cash equivalents	97,200	59,230	'
Recurring basis | Total fair value | Commercial Paper	'	'	'
Assets:	'	'	'
Cash equivalents	13,899	4,998	'
Investments	9,998	5,299	'
Recurring basis | Total fair value | Municipal bonds	'	'	'
Assets:	'	'	'
Cash equivalents	'	3,045	'
Investments	142,486	107,533	'
Recurring basis | Total fair value | Variable demand notes	'	'	'
Assets:	'	'	'
Investments	6,700	21,330	'
Recurring basis | Total fair value | Corporate bonds	'	'	'
Assets:	'	'	'
Cash equivalents	'	380	'
Investments	5,507	12,258	'
Recurring basis | Total fair value | Long-term investments - auction rate securities	'	'	'
Assets:	'	'	'
Investments	4,234	10,607	'
Recurring basis | Total fair value | Certificate of deposit	'	'	'
Assets:	'	'	'
Investments	2,000	2,006	'
Recurring basis | Total fair value | Marketable equity securities	'	'	'
Assets:	'	'	'
Investments	4,019	2,602	'
Recurring basis | Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets (Level 1) | Money market funds	'	'	'
Assets:	'	'	'
Cash equivalents	97,200	59,230	'
Recurring basis | Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets (Level 1) | Marketable equity securities	'	'	'
Assets:	'	'	'
Investments	4,019	2,602	'
Recurring basis | Significant other observable inputs (Level 2)	'	'	'
Assets:	'	'	'
Prepaid expenses and other assets - Foreign exchange contracts	592	16	'
Other long term assets: Carrying value of investments included in our deferred compensation plan	1,700	1,731	'
Liabilities:	'	'	'
Other accrued liabilities - Foreign exchange contracts	156	380	'
Recurring basis | Significant other observable inputs (Level 2) | Commercial Paper	'	'	'
Assets:	'	'	'
Cash equivalents	13,899	4,998	'
Investments	9,998	5,299	'
Recurring basis | Significant other observable inputs (Level 2) | Municipal bonds	'	'	'
Assets:	'	'	'
Cash equivalents	'	3,045	'
Investments	142,486	107,533	'
Recurring basis | Significant other observable inputs (Level 2) | Variable demand notes	'	'	'
Assets:	'	'	'
Investments	6,700	21,330	'
Recurring basis | Significant other observable inputs (Level 2) | Corporate bonds	'	'	'
Assets:	'	'	'
Cash equivalents	'	380	'
Investments	5,507	12,258	'
Recurring basis | Significant other observable inputs (Level 2) | Certificate of deposit	'	'	'
Assets:	'	'	'
Investments	2,000	2,006	'
Recurring basis | Significant unobservable inputs (Level 3)	'	'	'
Liabilities:	'	'	'
Contingent consideration (current and long-term portions)	43,346	22,052	'
Recurring basis | Significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) | Long-term investments - auction rate securities	'	'	'
Assets:	'	'	'
Investments	$4,234	$10,607	'

Fair_Value_Measurements_and_Fa3

Fair Value Measurements and Fair Value of Financial Instruments (Details 2) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 28, 2013	Dec. 29, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Other long-term assets - investments - deferred compensation plan	'	'	'
Deferred compensation plan assets	$5,200,000	$4,200,000	'
Unrealized gain before tax from the change in the value of the deferred compensation plan	700,000	400,000	200,000
Contractual maturities of available-for-sale investments, Amortized Cost	'	'	'
Total Amortized Cost	171,419,000	160,188,000	'
Contractual maturities of available-for-sale investments, Fair Value	'	'	'
Total Fair Value	170,925,000	159,033,000	'
Short-term investments	'	'	'
Available-for-sale investments by major security type:	'	'	'
Amortized Cost	166,519,000	148,288,000	'
Gross Unrealized Gains	185,000	160,000	'
Gross Unrealized Losses	-13,000	-22,000	'
Fair Value	166,691,000	148,426,000	'
Contractual maturities of available-for-sale investments, Amortized Cost	'	'	'
Maturing within 1 year	138,451,000	107,621,000	'
Maturing after 1 year through 5 years	28,068,000	40,667,000	'
Total Amortized Cost	166,519,000	148,288,000	'
Maturing after 5 years	4,900,000	11,900,000	'
Contractual maturities of available-for-sale investments, Fair Value	'	'	'
Maturing within 1 year	138,572,000	107,665,000	'
Maturing after 1 year through 5 years	28,119,000	40,761,000	'
Total Fair Value	166,691,000	148,426,000	'
Maturing after 5 years	4,234,000	10,607,000	'
Municipal bonds	'	'	'
Available-for-sale investments by major security type:	'	'	'
Amortized Cost	142,321,000	107,416,000	'
Gross Unrealized Gains	-178,000	136,000	'
Gross Unrealized Losses	-13,000	-19,000	'
Fair Value	142,486,000	107,533,000	'
Variable demand notes	'	'	'
Available-for-sale investments by major security type:	'	'	'
Amortized Cost	6,700,000	21,330,000	'
Fair Value	6,700,000	21,330,000	'
Corporate bonds	'	'	'
Available-for-sale investments by major security type:	'	'	'
Amortized Cost	5,500,000	12,244,000	'
Gross Unrealized Gains	-7,000	17,000	'
Gross Unrealized Losses	'	-3,000	'
Fair Value	5,507,000	12,258,000	'
Commercial Paper	'	'	'
Available-for-sale investments by major security type:	'	'	'
Amortized Cost	9,998,000	5,298,000	'
Gross Unrealized Gains	'	1,000	'
Fair Value	9,998,000	5,299,000	'
Certificate of deposit	'	'	'
Available-for-sale investments by major security type:	'	'	'
Amortized Cost	2,000,000	2,000,000	'
Gross Unrealized Gains	'	6,000	'
Fair Value	2,000,000	2,006,000	'
Long-term investments	'	'	'
Available-for-sale investments by major security type:	'	'	'
Amortized Cost	7,896,000	14,896,000	'
Gross Unrealized Gains	1,023,000	'	'
Gross Unrealized Losses	-666,000	-1,687,000	'
Fair Value	8,253,000	13,209,000	'
Long-term investments - auction rate securities	'	'	'
Available-for-sale investments by major security type:	'	'	'
Amortized Cost	4,900,000	11,900,000	'
Gross Unrealized Losses	-666,000	-1,293,000	'
Fair Value	4,234,000	10,607,000	'
Available-for-sale investments, Other Disclosures	'	'	'
Cumulative unrealized loss related to the auction rate securities, before tax	700,000	'	'
Cumulative unrealized loss related to the temporary impairment, net of tax	400,000	'	'
Percentage of the principal and accrued interest to be received from the issuer, not probable to be less than	100.00%	'	'
Percent of impairment charged to other comprehensive income (loss)	100.00%	'	'
Liquidated of auction rate securities at par value	7,000,000	'	'
Maximum final maturity of the underlying notes to auction rate securities	'30 years	'	'
Long-term investments - auction rate securities | Maximum	'	'	'
Available-for-sale investments, Other Disclosures	'	'	'
Auction rate securities, rate setting interval	'35 days	'	'
Long-term investments - auction rate securities | Minimum	'	'	'
Available-for-sale investments, Other Disclosures	'	'	'
Auction rate securities, rate setting interval	'7 days	'	'
Marketable equity securities	'	'	'
Available-for-sale investments by major security type:	'	'	'
Amortized Cost	2,996,000	2,996,000	'
Gross Unrealized Gains	1,023,000	'	'
Gross Unrealized Losses	'	-394,000	'
Fair Value	$4,019,000	$2,602,000	'

Fair_Value_Measurements_and_Fa4

Fair Value Measurements and Fair Value of Financial Instruments (Details 3) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 28, 2013	Dec. 29, 2012
Auction rate securities	'	'
Reconciliation of the beginning and ending balances for the assets measured as fair value using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3):	'	'
Balance, beginning of the fiscal year	$10,607	$16,090
Settlements at par	-7,000	-7,000
Change in unrealized gains (loss) included in other comprehensive income	627	1,517
Balance, end of the fiscal year	4,234	10,607
Contingent consideration	'	'
Changes in liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3)	'	'
Balance, beginning of the fiscal year	22,052	23,570
Payments	-4,220	-1,518
Additions	18,800	'
Change in fair value	6,714	'
Balance, end of the fiscal year	$43,346	$22,052

Fair_Value_Measurements_and_Fa5

Fair Value Measurements and Fair Value of Financial Instruments (Details 4) (Auction rate securities, Discounted cash flow, USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 28, 2013
Quantitative information for Level 3 Fair Value Measurements Assets	'
Fair value Assets	4,234
Weighted Average	'
Quantitative information for Level 3 Fair Value Measurements Assets	'
Discount rate (as a percent)	1.74%
Market credit spread (as a percent)	2.86%
Liquidity factor (as a percent)	0.00%

Fair_Value_Measurements_and_Fa6

Fair Value Measurements and Fair Value of Financial Instruments (Details 5) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 28, 2013	Dec. 29, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Quantitative information for Level 3 Fair Value Measurements Liabilities	'	'	'
Adjustments to contingent consideration	'	$0	$0
Impairment charge related to property, plant, and equipment	1,970,000	'	0
Impairment charge related to property, plant, and equipment	'	50,242,000	'
Multiple outcome discounted cash flow | Levitronix Medical	'	'	'
Quantitative information for Level 3 Fair Value Measurements Liabilities	'	'	'
Fair value Liabilities	22,253,000	'	'
Multiple outcome discounted cash flow | DuraHeart II Acquisition	'	'	'
Quantitative information for Level 3 Fair Value Measurements Liabilities	'	'	'
Fair value Liabilities	21,093,000	'	'
Multiple outcome discounted cash flow | Minimum | Levitronix Medical	'	'	'
Quantitative information for Level 3 Fair Value Measurements Liabilities	'	'	'
Annual Revenue	31,500,000	'	'
Discount rate (as a percent)	0.80%	'	'
Probability of occurrence (as a percent)	2.50%	'	'
Multiple outcome discounted cash flow | Minimum | DuraHeart II Acquisition	'	'	'
Quantitative information for Level 3 Fair Value Measurements Liabilities	'	'	'
Discount rate (as a percent)	5.30%	'	'
Probability of occurrence (as a percent)	1.00%	'	'
Multiple outcome discounted cash flow | Maximum | Levitronix Medical	'	'	'
Quantitative information for Level 3 Fair Value Measurements Liabilities	'	'	'
Annual Revenue	49,900,000	'	'
Discount rate (as a percent)	1.51%	'	'
Probability of occurrence (as a percent)	50.00%	'	'
Multiple outcome discounted cash flow | Maximum | DuraHeart II Acquisition	'	'	'
Quantitative information for Level 3 Fair Value Measurements Liabilities	'	'	'
Discount rate (as a percent)	20.00%	'	'
Probability of occurrence (as a percent)	74.00%	'	'
Multiple outcome discounted cash flow | Weighted Average | Levitronix Medical	'	'	'
Quantitative information for Level 3 Fair Value Measurements Liabilities	'	'	'
Annual Revenue	$42,800,000	'	'
Discount rate (as a percent)	1.10%	'	'
Probability of occurrence (as a percent)	20.00%	'	'

Foreign_Exchange_Instruments_D

Foreign Exchange Instruments (Details)

12 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

Dec. 28, 2013

Dec. 29, 2012

Dec. 31, 2011

Dec. 28, 2013

Dec. 29, 2012

Dec. 28, 2013

Dec. 29, 2012

Dec. 28, 2013

Dec. 28, 2013

Dec. 29, 2012

Dec. 28, 2013

Dec. 29, 2012

Dec. 28, 2013

Dec. 29, 2012

Dec. 28, 2013

Dec. 29, 2012

USD ($)

USD ($)

USD ($)

Prepaid expenses and other assets

Prepaid expenses and other assets

Other accrued liabilities

Other accrued liabilities

Not Designated

Not Designated

Not Designated

Not Designated

Not Designated

Not Designated

Not Designated

Not Designated

Not Designated

USD ($)

USD ($)

USD ($)

USD ($)

Maximum

Euro (sell)

Euro (sell)

British Pound Sterling (sell)

British Pound Sterling (sell)

U.S. Dollar (sell)

U.S. Dollar (sell)

U.S. Dollar (buy) 1

U.S. Dollar (buy) 1

EUR (€)

EUR (€)

GBP (£)

GBP (£)

USD ($)

USD ($)

USD ($)

USD ($)

Foreign currency forward exchange details

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Approximate period forward contracts

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'6 months

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Gross notional amounts for outstanding derivatives

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

€ 20,200,000

€ 13,900,000

£ 1,300,000

£ 1,800,000

$23,500,000

$5,300,000

$60,000,000

$73,500,000

Gross fair value of Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments (forward contracts)

'

'

'

592,000

16,000

156,000

380,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Foreign currency exchange gain (loss) on foreign contracts

-1,480,000

-1,921,000

305,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Foreign currency transactions gain (loss)

$1,814,000

$2,046,000

($657,000)

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Balance_Sheet_Information_Deta

Balance Sheet Information (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 28, 2013	Dec. 29, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Inventories	'	'	'
Finished goods	$22,885,000	$15,087,000	'
Work-in-process	13,739,000	11,020,000	'
Raw materials	23,669,000	20,993,000	'
Total inventories	60,293,000	47,100,000	'
Property, plant and equipment, net	'	'	'
Property, plant and equipment, gross	104,435,000	87,766,000	'
Less accumulated depreciation and amortization	-49,272,000	-41,874,000	'
Total property, plant and equipment, net	55,163,000	45,892,000	'
Depreciation expense	7,700,000	8,600,000	8,500,000
Land, building and improvements	'	'	'
Property, plant and equipment, net	'	'	'
Property, plant and equipment, gross	20,594,000	20,543,000	'
Equipment and capitalized software	'	'	'
Property, plant and equipment, net	'	'	'
Property, plant and equipment, gross	61,383,000	46,290,000	'
Furniture and leasehold improvements	'	'	'
Property, plant and equipment, net	'	'	'
Property, plant and equipment, gross	$22,458,000	$20,933,000	'

Balance_Sheet_Information_Deta1

Balance Sheet Information (Details 2) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 28, 2013	Dec. 29, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Changes in accumulated other comprehensive loss	'	'	'
Balance at the beginning of the period	($15,069)	($18,033)	'
Other comprehensive gain before reclassification	2,566	2,964	'
Total other comprehensive income (loss)	2,566	2,964	-14,008
Balance at the end of the period	-12,503	-15,069	-18,033
Foreign currency items	'	'	'
Changes in accumulated other comprehensive loss	'	'	'
Balance at the beginning of the period	-13,928	-16,369	'
Other comprehensive gain before reclassification	889	2,441	'
Total other comprehensive income (loss)	889	2,441	'
Balance at the end of the period	-13,039	-13,928	'
Unrealized gain (loss) on available-for-sale securities	'	'	'
Changes in accumulated other comprehensive loss	'	'	'
Balance at the beginning of the period	-1,141	-1,664	'
Other comprehensive gain before reclassification	1,677	523	'
Total other comprehensive income (loss)	1,677	523	'
Balance at the end of the period	$536	($1,141)	'

Goodwill_and_Purchased_Intangi2

Goodwill and Purchased Intangible Assets, net (Details) (USD $)

3 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

0 Months Ended

1 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

Dec. 28, 2013

Sep. 28, 2013

Jun. 29, 2013

Mar. 30, 2013

Dec. 29, 2012

Sep. 29, 2012

Jun. 30, 2012

Mar. 31, 2012

Dec. 28, 2013

Dec. 29, 2012

Dec. 31, 2011

Dec. 28, 2013

Dec. 29, 2012

Dec. 31, 2011

Jan. 01, 2011

Jul. 02, 2013

Nov. 30, 2012

Feb. 28, 2001

Dec. 29, 2012

Dec. 28, 2013

Dec. 28, 2013

Dec. 29, 2012

Dec. 28, 2013

Dec. 28, 2013

Dec. 28, 2013

Dec. 28, 2013

Dec. 28, 2013

Dec. 29, 2012

Dec. 28, 2013

Dec. 29, 2012

Dec. 28, 2013

Dec. 29, 2012

Dec. 28, 2013

Dec. 29, 2012

Dec. 28, 2013

Dec. 28, 2013

Thoratec

Thoratec

Thoratec

Thoratec

DuraHeart II

CFK Cardiac Technologies LLC

Thermo Cardiosystems, Inc.

Thermo Cardiosystems, Inc.

IPR&D

Patents and trademarks

Patents and trademarks

Patents and trademarks

Patents and trademarks

Core and developed technology

Core and developed technology

Core technology

Core technology

Developed technology

Developed technology

Pre-existing license agreements

Pre-existing license agreements

Customer based relationships and other

Customer based relationships and other

Customer based relationships and other

Customer based relationships and other

Minimum

Maximum

Minimum

Maximum

Minimum

Maximum

Changes in carrying amount of goodwill

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Balance, beginning of the period

'

'

'

$194,182,000

'

'

'

$191,193,000

$194,182,000

$191,193,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Goodwill additions

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

9,900,000

690,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Foreign currency translation impact

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

1,682,000

2,299,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Balance, end of period

205,764,000

'

'

'

194,182,000

'

'

'

205,764,000

194,182,000

191,193,000

'

'

'

'

9,900,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Cash consideration

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

13,000,000

3,400,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Tangible assets acquired

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

300,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Identifiable intangible assets

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

2,400,000

207,000,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Goodwill deductible for U.S. tax purposes

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

9,900,000

700,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Intangible assets subject to amortization:

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Gross carrying amount before adjustments

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

43,532,000

43,475,000

'

'

'

'

37,180,000

37,180,000

128,073,000

127,940,000

2,300,000

2,300,000

7,246,000

6,578,000

'

'

Accumulated amortization before adjustments

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

-34,755,000

-33,463,000

'

'

'

'

-22,986,000

-21,388,000

-81,635,000

-76,379,000

-794,000

-465,000

-4,043,000

-2,220,000

'

'

Accumulated impairment before adjustments

-50,242,000

'

'

'

-50,242,000

'

'

'

-50,242,000

-50,242,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

-12,642,000

-12,642,000

-37,600,000

-37,600,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

Net carrying amount before adjustments

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

8,777,000

10,012,000

'

'

'

'

1,552,000

3,150,000

8,838,000

13,961,000

1,506,000

1,835,000

3,203,000

4,358,000

'

'

Foreign currency translation adjustments, gross

127,000

'

'

'

255,000

'

'

'

127,000

255,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Foreign currency translation adjustments, net

127,000

'

'

'

255,000

'

'

'

127,000

255,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Gross Carrying Amount

218,458,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

218,458,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Accumulated Amortization

-144,213,000

'

'

'

-133,915,000

'

'

'

-144,213,000

-133,915,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Impairment charge

'

'

'

'

-50,200,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

-50,200,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Total

24,003,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

24,003,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Intangible assets not yet subject to amortization:

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Total intangible assets not yet subject to amortization

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

12,400,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Total purchased intangible assets, gross

230,858,000

'

'

'

217,728,000

'

'

'

230,858,000

217,728,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Total purchased intangible assets, net

36,403,000

'

'

'

33,571,000

'

'

'

36,403,000

33,571,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Product sales

128,173,000

126,444,000

130,479,000

117,725,000

128,458,000

117,768,000

118,659,000

126,769,000

502,821,000

491,654,000

422,713,000

12,482,000

19,035,000

28,165,000

29,500,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Fair value of intangible assets

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

12,600,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Intangible assets, useful lives

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'5 years

'

'

'

'

'

'5 years

'8 years

'1 year

'8 years

'

'

'

'

'5 years

'

'

'

'1 year

'6 years

Amortization expense related to identifiable intangible assets (subject to amortization)

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

10,300,000

11,100,000

9,700,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Increase in discount rate not affecting impairment of assets (as a percent)

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

1.00%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Estimated amortization expense for the next five fiscal years and all years thereafter

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

2014

7,275,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

7,275,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

2015

4,811,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

4,811,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

2016

3,481,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

3,481,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

2017

2,577,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

2,577,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

2018

2,197,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

2,197,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Thereafter

3,662,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

3,662,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Total

$24,003,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

$24,003,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Commitments_and_Contingencies_1

Commitments and Contingencies (Details) (USD $)	1 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2011	Dec. 28, 2013	Dec. 28, 2013	Jul. 02, 2013	Jun. 29, 2013
	Levitronix Medical	Levitronix Medical	DuraHeart II	DuraHeart II	DuraHeart II
Acquisition	'	'	'	'	'
Period over which the cash and cash earn-out amounts are payable related to acquisition of Levitronix LLC	'4 years	'	'	'	'
Percentage of sales above threshold for earn-out payments	36.00%	'	'	'	'
Threshold sale for earn-out payments	$24,000,000	'	'	'	'
Fair value of contingent consideration	'	22,300,000	2,300,000	18,800,000	43,500,000
Potential earn-out payments	'	'	$21,100,000	'	'

Commitments_and_Contingencies_2

Commitments and Contingencies (Details 2) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 28, 2013	Dec. 29, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Future minimum lease payments for the next five years and thereafter	'	'	'
2014	$2,883,000	'	'
2015	2,812,000	'	'
2016	2,656,000	'	'
2017	2,476,000	'	'
2018	2,486,000	'	'
Thereafter	17,392,000	'	'
Total	30,705,000	'	'
Operating lease, Rent expenses	'	'	'
Rent expense	3,300,000	2,900,000	2,200,000
Purchase order commitments, including both supply and inventory related agreements	'	'	'
Purchase order commitments, including both supply and inventory related agreements	$58,800,000	$85,200,000	'

Debt_and_Other_Financing_Arran2

Debt and Other Financing Arrangements (Details) (USD $)

12 Months Ended

1 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

Dec. 28, 2013

Dec. 29, 2012

Dec. 31, 2011

16-May-11

Dec. 29, 2012

Dec. 31, 2011

Jan. 01, 2005

17-May-11

Dec. 28, 2013

Dec. 19, 2011

Dec. 28, 2013

Dec. 28, 2013

Senior subordinated convertible notes due in 2034

Senior subordinated convertible notes due in 2034

Senior subordinated convertible notes due in 2034

Senior subordinated convertible notes due in 2034

Senior subordinated convertible notes due in 2034

Credit Facility

Credit Facility

Credit Facility

Credit Facility

item

item

Minimum

Maximum

Credit facility

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Issue price per note

'

'

'

'

'

'

$580.98

'

'

'

'

'

Issue price as a percentage of principal amount of notes at maturity

'

'

'

'

'

'

58.10%

'

'

'

'

'

Interest rate per year on the principal amount at maturity (as a percent)

'

'

'

'

'

'

1.38%

'

'

'

'

'

Conversion rate used for conversion of convertible notes into shares of common stock

'

'

'

'

'

'

0.0294652

'

'

'

'

'

Senior subordinated convertible notes, conversion price per share

'

'

'

'

'

'

$19.72

'

'

'

'

'

Redemption price as a percentage of issue price of notes plus accrued original issue discount

'

'

'

'

'

'

100.00%

'

'

'

'

'

Number of notes converted by noteholders

'

'

'

243,367

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Settlement of cash payment to noteholders on conversion of notes into equity instrument

'

'

'

164,400,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Number of equity instruments that the noteholders received on conversion of notes (in shares)

'

'

'

2,397,535

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Estimated fair value of shares issued upon conversion of debt

'

'

'

82,700,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Number of remaining outstanding notes redeemed for cash by entity

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

15

'

'

'

'

Gains (Losses) on Extinguishment of Debt

'

'

'

'

0

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Difference between the fair value and the face value recorded to additional paid-in capital

'

'

'

'

'

105,700,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

Aggregate consideration paid

'

'

'

'

'

247,100,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

Face value debt

'

'

'

'

'

141,400,000

143,800,000

'

'

'

'

'

Cash coupon rate (as a percent)

'

'

'

2.38%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Effective interest rate on debt borrowing (as a percent)

'

'

'

9.00%

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Amortization period for debt discount

'

'

'

'7 years

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Interest expense

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Interest expense - cash component

4,000

3,000

1,685,000

'

'

1,259,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

Interest expense - non-cash component

'

'

'

'

'

3,127,000

'

'

'

'

'

'

Maximum borrowing capacity

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

$50,000,000

'

'

Reference rate for variable rate (as a percent)

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'LIBOR

'

'

'

Margin rate (as a percent)

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

0.75%

1.25%

ShareBased_Compensation_Detail

Share-Based Compensation (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 28, 2013	Dec. 29, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011	Jan. 01, 2011
Share-based compensation	'	'	'	'
Share-based compensation cost	$26,997,000	$21,692,000	$16,101,000	'
Tax benefit for share-based compensation expense	10,083,000	8,501,000	5,688,000	'
Total share-based compensation (net of taxes)	16,914,000	13,191,000	10,413,000	'
Share-based compensation costs capitalized to inventory	500,000	200,000	400,000	'
Excess tax benefits from share-based compensation	2,377,000	3,249,000	1,662,000	'
Proceeds from stock option exercises	16,686,000	10,067,000	11,486,000	'
Proceeds from stock issued under employee stock purchase plan	4,386,000	3,508,000	3,112,000	'
Income tax benefit realized from stock option exercises	2,400,000	3,400,000	1,800,000	'
Options	'	'	'	'
Share-based compensation	'	'	'	'
General vesting period	'4 years	'	'	'
Expiration period	'10 years	'	'	'
Remaining shares available for issuance	3,300,000	'	'	'
Method and assumptions on valuation of stock options	'	'	'	'
Risk-free interest rate (as a percent)	1.40%	1.40%	2.71%	'
Expected volatility (as a percent)	37.00%	43.00%	44.00%	'
Dividends (as a percent)	0.00%	0.00%	0.00%	'
Number of options	'	'	'	'
Outstanding options at the beginning of the period (in shares)	2,498,000	2,538,000	2,694,000	'
Granted (in shares)	596,000	602,000	643,000	'
Cancelled and expired (in shares)	-74,000	-76,000	-112,000	'
Exercised (in shares)	-759,000	-566,000	-687,000	'
Outstanding options at the end of the period (in shares)	2,261,000	2,498,000	2,538,000	2,694,000
Outstanding options exercisable at the end of the period (in shares)	926,000	1,265,000	1,484,000	1,883,000
Stock options, Weighted-Average Exercise Price Per Share	'	'	'	'
Outstanding options at the beginning of the period (in dollars per share)	$25.98	$22.46	$19.81	'
Granted (in dollars per share)	$35.70	$33.74	$27.72	'
Cancelled and expired (in dollars per share)	$32.45	$31.13	$24.11	'
Exercised (in dollars per share)	$21.97	$17.78	$16.72	'
Outstanding options at the end of the period (in dollars per share)	$29.68	$25.98	$22.46	$19.81
Outstanding options exercisable at the end of the period (in dollars per share)	$24.57	$21.29	$19.04	$17.60
Weighted Average Remaining Contract Life (years)	'	'	'	'
Outstanding options at the beginning of the period	'6 years 11 months 12 days	'6 years 3 months 7 days	'5 years 11 months 16 days	'5 years 18 days
Outstanding options at the end of the period	'6 years 11 months 12 days	'6 years 3 months 7 days	'5 years 11 months 16 days	'5 years 18 days
Unrecognized compensation expenses, net of estimated forfeitures	7,100,000	'	'	'
Weighted average period for unrecognized compensation cost expected to be recognized	'1 year 3 months 14 days	'	'	'
Aggregate intrinsic value of options outstanding	14,700,000	'	'	'
Intrinsic value of options exercised	12,800,000	10,000,000	8,100,000	'
Weighted average grant-date fair value (in dollars per share)	$13	$14.99	$13.53	'
Options outstanding that have vested or expected to vest and exercisable	'	'	'	'
Vested or expected to vest (in shares)	2,198,000	'	'	'
Exercisable (in shares)	926,000	1,265,000	1,484,000	1,883,000
Weighted Average Exercise Price (in dollars per share)	'	'	'	'
Vested or expected to vest (in dollars per share)	$29.55	'	'	'
Exercisable (in dollars per share)	$24.57	$21.29	$19.04	$17.60
Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term	'	'	'	'
Vested or expected to vest	'6 years 10 months 24 days	'	'	'
Exercisable	'4 years 10 months 24 days	'	'	'
Aggregate Intrinsic Value	'	'	'	'
Vested or expected to vest	14,600,000	'	'	'
Exercisable	10,700,000	'	'	'
Options | Minimum	'	'	'	'
Method and assumptions on valuation of stock options	'	'	'	'
Expected option life	'4 years 11 months 1 day	'4 years 9 months 4 days	'4 years 8 months 8 days	'
Options | Maximum	'	'	'	'
Method and assumptions on valuation of stock options	'	'	'	'
Expected option life	'5 years 8 months 16 days	'5 years 10 months 2 days	'5 years 3 months 29 days	'
Restricted stock units	'	'	'	'
Share-based compensation	'	'	'	'
General vesting period	'4 years	'	'	'
Weighted Average Remaining Contract Life (years)	'	'	'	'
Unrecognized compensation expenses, net of estimated forfeitures	33,300,000	'	'	'
Weighted average period for unrecognized compensation cost expected to be recognized	'2 years 2 months 19 days	'	'	'
Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP)	'	'	'	'
Share-based compensation	'	'	'	'
Remaining shares available for issuance	279,350	'	'	'
Maximum percentage of base compensation that can be contributed by the eligible employee	15.00%	'	'	'
Purchase price of common stock as a percentage of the market value on the offering date or the purchase date	85.00%	'	'	'
The period during which eligible employees can purchase shares	'6 months	'	'	'
Shares of common stock issued	143,593	'	'	'
Method and assumptions on valuation of stock options	'	'	'	'
Risk-free interest rate (as a percent)	0.08%	0.15%	0.05%	'
Expected volatility (as a percent)	29.00%	39.00%	36.00%	'
Expected option life	'6 months	'6 months	'6 months	'
Dividends (as a percent)	0.00%	0.00%	0.00%	'
Weighted Average Remaining Contract Life (years)	'	'	'	'
Unrecognized compensation expenses, net of estimated forfeitures	400,000	'	'	'
Cost of product sales	'	'	'	'
Share-based compensation	'	'	'	'
Share-based compensation cost	2,365,000	2,130,000	1,543,000	'
Selling, general and administrative expenses	'	'	'	'
Share-based compensation	'	'	'	'
Share-based compensation cost	16,897,000	13,235,000	10,387,000	'
Research and development	'	'	'	'
Share-based compensation	'	'	'	'
Share-based compensation cost	$7,735,000	$6,327,000	$4,171,000	'

ShareBased_Compensation_Detail1

Share-Based Compensation (Details 2) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 28, 2013
Options Outstanding	'
Options Outstanding, Number (in shares)	2,261
Options Outstanding, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Life	'6 years 11 months 12 days
Options Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price (in dollars per share)	$29.68
Options Exercisable, Number (in shares)	926
Options Exercisable, Weighted Average Exercise Price (in dollars per share)	$24.57
Exercise Price Range $8.52-$23.93	'
Options Outstanding	'
Exercise price, lower range limit (in dollars per share)	$8.52
Exercise price, upper range limit (in dollars per share)	$23.93
Options Outstanding, Number (in shares)	482
Options Outstanding, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Life	'2 years 11 months 16 days
Options Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price (in dollars per share)	$19.55
Options Exercisable, Number (in shares)	482
Options Exercisable, Weighted Average Exercise Price (in dollars per share)	$19.55
Exercise Price Range $24.35-$29.81	'
Options Outstanding	'
Exercise price, lower range limit (in dollars per share)	$24.35
Exercise price, upper range limit (in dollars per share)	$29.81
Options Outstanding, Number (in shares)	633
Options Outstanding, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Life	'6 years 9 months 25 days
Options Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price (in dollars per share)	$28.10
Options Exercisable, Number (in shares)	311
Options Exercisable, Weighted Average Exercise Price (in dollars per share)	$28.32
Exercise Price Range $30.44-$33.99	'
Options Outstanding	'
Exercise price, lower range limit (in dollars per share)	$30.44
Exercise price, upper range limit (in dollars per share)	$33.99
Options Outstanding, Number (in shares)	548
Options Outstanding, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Life	'8 years 2 months 19 days
Options Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price (in dollars per share)	$33.61
Options Exercisable, Number (in shares)	123
Options Exercisable, Weighted Average Exercise Price (in dollars per share)	$33.62
Exercise Price Range $34.50-$35.10	'
Options Outstanding	'
Exercise price, lower range limit (in dollars per share)	$34.50
Exercise price, upper range limit (in dollars per share)	$35.10
Options Outstanding, Number (in shares)	18
Options Outstanding, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Life	'8 years 4 months 20 days
Options Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price (in dollars per share)	$34.81
Options Exercisable, Number (in shares)	5
Options Exercisable, Weighted Average Exercise Price (in dollars per share)	$34.83
Exercise Price Range $35.68-$43.30	'
Options Outstanding	'
Exercise price, lower range limit (in dollars per share)	$35.68
Exercise price, upper range limit (in dollars per share)	$43.30
Options Outstanding, Number (in shares)	580
Options Outstanding, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Life	'9 years 2 months 1 day
Options Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price (in dollars per share)	$35.93
Options Exercisable, Number (in shares)	5
Options Exercisable, Weighted Average Exercise Price (in dollars per share)	$42.89

ShareBased_Compensation_Detail2

Share-Based Compensation (Details 3) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, except Share data in Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 28, 2013	Dec. 29, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011	Jan. 01, 2011
Restricted stock units	'	'	'	'
Number of shares and units	'	'	'	'
Outstanding unvested restricted stock at the beginning of the period (in shares)	1,462	1,151	688	'
Granted (in shares)	649	730	736	'
Released (in shares)	-553	-327	-209	'
Forfeited or expired (in shares)	-97	-92	-64	'
Outstanding unvested restricted stock at the end of the period (in shares)	1,461	1,462	1,151	688
Weighted average grant date fair value	'	'	'	'
Outstanding unvested restricted stock at the beginning of the year (in dollars per share)	$31.52	$28.88	$28.86	'
Granted (in dollars per share)	$35.30	$34.22	$28.73	'
Released (in dollars per share)	$30.74	$28.54	$28.25	'
Forfeited or expired (in dollars per share)	$32.91	$30.74	$27.94	'
Outstanding unvested restricted stock at the end of the year (in dollars per share)	$33.40	$31.52	$28.88	$28.86
Weighted Average Remaining Contract Life (in years)	'	'	'	'
Weighted Average Remaining Contract Life	'1 year 3 months 7 days	'1 year 4 months 13 days	'1 year 6 months	'1 year 6 months 11 days
Weighted Average Remaining Contract Life	'1 year 3 months 7 days	'1 year 4 months 13 days	'1 year 6 months	'1 year 6 months 11 days
Unrecognized compensation expenses, net of estimated forfeitures	$33.30	'	'	'
Weighted average period for unrecognized compensation cost expected to be recognized	'2 years 2 months 19 days	'	'	'
Aggregate intrinsic value of restricted stock awards or units outstanding	52.8	'	'	'
Employee Stock Purchase Plan	'	'	'	'
Weighted Average Remaining Contract Life (in years)	'	'	'	'
Unrecognized compensation expenses, net of estimated forfeitures	0.4	'	'	'
Stock compensation plan	'	'	'	'
Estimated subscription date fair value	$0.60	$0.60	$0.60	'
Method and assumptions on valuation of ESPP	'	'	'	'
Risk-free interest rate (as a percent)	0.08%	0.15%	0.05%	'
Expected volatility (as a percent)	29.00%	39.00%	36.00%	'
Expected option life	'6 months	'6 months	'6 months	'
Dividends (as a percent)	0.00%	0.00%	0.00%	'

Common_and_Preferred_Stock_Det

Common and Preferred Stock (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 28, 2013	Dec. 29, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Common and Preferred Stock	'	'	'
No par common stock shares, authorized	100,000,000	100,000,000	'
Common shares, par value (in dollars per share)	$0	0	'
Preferred stock	'	'	'
No par preferred stock shares, authorized	2,500,000	'	'
Common shares, outstanding	56,904,000	57,584,000	'
Series A	'	'	'
Preferred stock	'	'	'
No par preferred stock shares, authorized	540,541	'	'
Cumulative annual dividends (in dollars per share)	$1.30	'	'
Preferred stock, liquidation preference per share	$9.25	'	'
Common stock shares into which preferred stock is convertible	0.33	'	'
Common shares, outstanding	0	0	0
Series B	'	'	'
Preferred stock	'	'	'
No par preferred stock shares, authorized	500,000	'	'
Cumulative annual dividends (in dollars per share)	$0.96	'	'
Preferred stock, liquidation preference per share	$8	'	'
Common stock shares into which preferred stock is convertible	3.33	'	'
Common shares, outstanding	0	'	'
Redeemable term of preferred stock	'5 years	'	'
Series RP	'	'	'
Preferred stock	'	'	'
No par preferred stock shares, authorized	100,000	'	'

Common_and_Preferred_Stock_Det1

Common and Preferred Stock (Details2) (USD $)	0 Months Ended	3 Months Ended		12 Months Ended	0 Months Ended	1 Months Ended	12 Months Ended	3 Months Ended	0 Months Ended
In Millions, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	Nov. 26, 2012	Dec. 28, 2013	Mar. 30, 2013	Dec. 28, 2013	Nov. 26, 2012	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 28, 2013	Sep. 28, 2013	Dec. 05, 2013
					November 2012 program	November 2012 program	November 2012 program	2013 ASR contract	December 2013 program
Common and Preferred Stock	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Maximum amount for repurchase of common stock	$75	'	'	'	$150	'	$26.10	$40	$200
Aggregate amount of common stock agreed to be repurchased	75	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Number of shares repurchased	1,479,095	'	'	'	'	'	'	820,120	'
Percentage of the ASR Program's value received	75.00%	'	'	'	'	'	'	75.00%	'
Number of additional shares delivered at maturity date of the program	'	249,062	603,995	'	'	'	'	'	'
Common stock repurchase average price per share (in dollars per share)	'	'	'	$36	'	'	'	$37.41	'
Repurchases of shares of our common stock under stock repurchase programs	'	'	'	7.6	'	8.9	67.7	'	'
Repurchased shares of common stock accrued on the consolidated balance sheet	'	'	'	'	'	'	2.7	'	'
Decrease in additional-paid-in-capital	'	'	'	2.5	'	'	22.7	'	'
Decrease in retained earnings	'	'	'	$5.10	'	'	$45	'	'

Retirement_Savings_Plans_Detai

Retirement Savings Plans (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 28, 2013	Dec. 29, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Retirement Savings Plans	'	'	'
Employee contribution limit per calendar year (as a percent of compensation)	100.00%	'	'
Employer match of employee contributions of first 6% of eligible compensation (as a percent)	50.00%	50.00%	50.00%
Percentage of eligible compensation, matched 50% by employer	6.00%	6.00%	6.00%
Employee vest in matching contribution to the Retirement Plan per year (as a percent)	25.00%	'	'
Employee vesting period	'4 years	'	'
Contribution by employer	$2.30	$2	$1.70
Liability for deferred compensation	5.9	4.4	'
Cash surrender value of corporate owned life insurance policies and fair value of mutual fund investments, included in Other long-term assets	$5.20	$4.20	'

Income_Taxes_Details

Income Taxes (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 28, 2013	Dec. 29, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Current:	'	'	'
Federal	$25,909	$37,056	$34,453
State	2,942	5,584	4,770
Foreign	7,224	6,348	2,483
Total current	36,075	48,988	41,706
Deferred:	'	'	'
Federal	-9,363	-24,536	-1,167
State	-503	-3,280	-433
Foreign	220	-18	-810
Total Deferred	-9,646	-27,834	-2,410
Total income tax expense-continuing operations	26,429	21,154	39,296
Current:	'	'	'
Federal	'	'	-605
State	'	'	-151
Total current	'	'	-756
Deferred:	'	'	'
State	'	'	-15
Total deferred	'	'	-15
Total income tax expense (benefit)-discontinued operations	'	'	-771
Continuing operations:	'	'	'
Domestic	73,766	50,351	108,733
Foreign	25,989	26,966	3,138
Income before taxes	99,755	77,317	111,871
Discontinued operations:	'	'	'
Domestic	'	'	-1,802
Total income from operations before taxes	$99,755	$77,317	$110,069

Income_Taxes_Details_2

Income Taxes (Details 2) (USD $)	12 Months Ended				12 Months Ended
	Dec. 28, 2013	Dec. 29, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011	Jan. 02, 2013	Dec. 31, 2013
					Research and development
Reconciliation of income taxes at the U.S. federal statutory income tax rate to income before taxes	'	'	'	'	'
U.S. federal statutory income tax expense	$34,914,000	$27,061,000	$39,155,000	'	'
State income tax expense, net of federal tax benefit	1,286,000	573,000	2,425,000	'	'
Non-deductible expenses	-93,000	-326,000	314,000	'	'
Research and development credits	-4,676,000	'	-2,119,000	'	'
Foreign earnings permanently reinvested	-1,891,000	-2,348,000	-63,000	'	'
Tax advantaged investment income	-211,000	-294,000	-717,000	'	'
Return-to-provision true-up	395,000	-563,000	-63,000	'	'
Levitronix Medical U.S. deferred tax asset write-off	'	'	862,000	'	'
Compensation limitation write-down	638,000	536,000	859,000	'	'
Domestic production activities	-2,698,000	-3,225,000	-2,820,000	'	'
Valuation allowance	-127,000	-4,000	-45,000	'	'
Other	112,000	-319,000	-72,000	'	'
Tax reserves	-1,220,000	63,000	1,580,000	'	'
Total income tax expense-continuing operations	26,429,000	21,154,000	39,296,000	'	'
Reconciliation of income taxes at the U.S. federal statutory income tax rate to income before taxes (as a percent)	'	'	'	'	'
U.S. federal statutory income tax expense (as a percent)	35.00%	35.00%	35.00%	'	'
State income tax expense, net of federal tax benefit (as a percent)	1.30%	0.70%	2.20%	'	'
Non-deductible expenses (as a percent)	-0.10%	-0.40%	0.30%	'	'
Research and development credits (as a percent)	-4.70%	'	-1.90%	'	'
Foreign earnings permanently reinvested (as a percent)	-1.90%	-3.00%	-0.10%	'	'
Tax advantaged investment income (as a percent)	-0.20%	-0.40%	-0.60%	'	'
Return-to-provision true-up (as a percent)	0.40%	-0.70%	-0.10%	'	'
Levitronix Medical U.S. deferred tax asset write-off (as a percent)	'	'	0.80%	'	'
Compensation limitation write-down (as a percent)	0.60%	0.70%	0.70%	'	'
Domestic production activities (as a percent)	-2.70%	-4.20%	-2.50%	'	'
Valuation allowance (as a percent)	-0.10%	'	'	'	'
Other (as a percent)	0.10%	-0.40%	-0.10%	'	'
Tax reserves (as a percent)	-1.20%	0.10%	1.40%	'	'
Total income tax expense from continuing operations (as a percent)	26.50%	27.40%	35.10%	'	'
Tax credit carryovers	'	'	'	'	'
Extension period for tax credits due to enactment of law	'	'	'	'	'2 years
Tax benefits expected to be recognized due to enactment of law	'	'	'	$2,300,000	'

Income_Taxes_Details_3

Income Taxes (Details 3) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 28, 2013	Dec. 29, 2012
Deferred tax assets:	'	'
Reserves and accruals	$9,822,000	$6,875,000
Depreciation and amortization	4,404,000	25,000
Inventory basis difference	3,051,000	3,287,000
Share-based compensation	11,114,000	9,151,000
Research and development and other credit carry forwards	4,908,000	4,198,000
Capital loss carryovers	4,644,000	4,768,000
Other, net	530,000	1,269,000
Total deferred tax assets	38,473,000	29,573,000
Valuation allowance	-4,644,000	-4,768,000
Total	33,829,000	24,805,000
Deferred tax liabilities:	'	'
Purchased intangibles	-6,459,000	-7,025,000
Other, net	-304,000	-95,000
Total deferred tax liabilities	-6,763,000	-7,120,000
Net deferred tax assets	27,066,000	17,685,000
Reported As:	'	'
Current deferred tax assets	15,161,000	10,626,000
Other long-term assets - deferred tax assets	14,331,000	9,839,000
Short-term deferred tax liabilities included in other accrued liabilities	202,000	'
Net long-term deferred tax liabilities	-2,224,000	-2,780,000
Net deferred tax assets	27,066,000	17,685,000
Federal and state capital losses	$12,100,000	'
Capital loss carryback period	'3 years	'
Capital loss carryforward period	'5 years	'

Income_Taxes_Details_4

Income Taxes (Details 4) (Research and development, State, USD $)	Dec. 28, 2013
In Millions, unless otherwise specified
Research and development | State	'
Tax credit carryovers	'
Tax credit carryovers	$9.20

Income_Taxes_Details_5

Income Taxes (Details 5) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 28, 2013	Dec. 29, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Valuation allowance	'	'	'
Valuation allowance for deferred tax assets	$4,644,000	$4,768,000	'
Other income tax disclosures	'	'	'
Stock option pool of excess tax benefits	30,900,000	'	'
Tax savings credited to additional paid-in-capital	2,367,000	3,388,000	1,767,000
Cumulative earnings on which U.S. income taxes have not been provided	53,600,000	'	'
Unrecognized deferred tax liability related to permanently reinvested earnings	7,800,000	'	'
Capital loss carryforwards	'	'	'
Valuation allowance	'	'	'
Valuation allowance for deferred tax assets	$4,600,000	'	'

Income_Taxes_Details_6

Income Taxes (Details 6) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 28, 2013	Dec. 29, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Reconciliation of the beginning and ending amount of gross unrecognized tax benefits from continuing operations	'	'	'
Balance at beginning of fiscal year	$9,965,000	$10,652,000	$10,780,000
Gross increases for tax positions related to the current year	2,240,000	912,000	2,621,000
Gross increases for tax positions, related to prior years	1,418,000	282,000	410,000
Gross decreases for tax positions, related to prior years	-466,000	-1,069,000	-718,000
Settlements	-2,528,000	-3,000	-1,948,000
Lapse of statute of limitations	-2,699,000	-809,000	-493,000
Balance at end of fiscal year	7,930,000	9,965,000	10,652,000
Unrecognized tax benefits that if recognized, would impact the entity's effective tax rate	6,700,000	8,100,000	8,900,000
Interest and penalties associated with unrecognized income tax benefits	'	'	'
Interest	-198,000	27,000	165,000
Penalties	-31,000	22,000	35,000
Accrued interest and penalties associated with unrecognized income tax benefits	'	'	'
Interest	233,000	430,000	'
Penalties	37,000	68,000	'
Decrease in liability for unrecognized tax benefits from audits settlement	$700,000	'	'

Segment_Disclosure_Details

Segment Disclosure (Details) (USD $)

3 Months Ended

12 Months Ended

In Thousands, unless otherwise specified

Dec. 28, 2013

Sep. 28, 2013

Jun. 29, 2013

Mar. 30, 2013

Dec. 29, 2012

Sep. 29, 2012

Jun. 30, 2012

Mar. 31, 2012

Dec. 28, 2013

Dec. 29, 2012

Dec. 31, 2011

Dec. 28, 2013

Dec. 29, 2012

Dec. 31, 2011

Dec. 28, 2013

Dec. 29, 2012

Dec. 31, 2011

Jan. 01, 2011

Dec. 28, 2013

Dec. 29, 2012

Dec. 31, 2011

Dec. 28, 2013

Dec. 29, 2012

Dec. 31, 2011

Dec. 28, 2013

Dec. 29, 2012

Dec. 31, 2011

Dec. 28, 2013

Dec. 29, 2012

Dec. 31, 2011

Dec. 28, 2013

Dec. 29, 2012

Dec. 31, 2011

Dec. 28, 2013

Dec. 29, 2012

Dec. 31, 2011

Dec. 28, 2013

Dec. 29, 2012

Dec. 31, 2011

segment

HeartMate

HeartMate

HeartMate

Thoratec

Thoratec

Thoratec

Thoratec

CentriMag

CentriMag

CentriMag

Other

Other

Other

Pump

Pump

Pump

Non-pump

Non-pump

Non-pump

Other

Other

Other

Domestic (i.e. United States)

Domestic (i.e. United States)

Domestic (i.e. United States)

International

International

International

Segment Disclosure

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Number of operating and reporting segment

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1

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Segment information

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Product sales

$128,173

$126,444

$130,479

$117,725

$128,458

$117,768

$118,659

$126,769

$502,821

$491,654

$422,713

$444,376

$434,546

$366,321

$12,482

$19,035

$28,165

$29,500

$43,340

$35,723

$25,729

$2,623

$2,350

$2,498

$355,266

$356,310

$298,246

$144,932

$132,994

$121,975

$2,623

$2,350

$2,492

$390,450

$400,526

$347,553

$112,371

$91,128

$75,160

Earnings_Per_Share_Details

Earnings Per Share (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 28, 2013	Sep. 28, 2013	Jun. 29, 2013	Mar. 30, 2013	Dec. 29, 2012	Sep. 29, 2012	Jun. 30, 2012	Mar. 31, 2012	Dec. 28, 2013	Dec. 29, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Basic net income per common share calculation	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Income from continuing operations	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	$73,326	$56,163	$72,575
Income from continuing operations allocated to participating securities	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	-12	-123
Income from continuing operations attributable to common shareholders	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	73,326	56,151	72,452
Loss from discontinued operations	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	-1,031
Loss from discontinued operations allocated to participating securities	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	1
Loss from discontinued operations attributable to common shareholders	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	-1,030
Net income	13,063	18,904	23,189	18,170	-14,386	24,255	20,808	25,486	73,326	56,163	71,544
Net income allocated to participating securities	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	-12	-122
Net income attributable to common shareholders	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	$73,326	$56,151	$71,422
Weighted average number of common shares used to compute basic income per common share	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	57,332	58,563	58,777
Basic net income (loss) per common share	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Continuing operations (in dollars per share)	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	$1.28	$0.96	$1.23
Discontinued operations (in dollars per share)	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	($0.02)
Net income (in dollars per share)	$0.23	$0.33	$0.40	$0.32	($0.25)	$0.41	$0.35	$0.44	$1.28	$0.96	$1.21

Earnings_Per_Share_Details_2

Earnings Per Share (Details 2) (USD $)	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 28, 2013	Sep. 28, 2013	Jun. 29, 2013	Mar. 30, 2013	Dec. 29, 2012	Sep. 29, 2012	Jun. 30, 2012	Mar. 31, 2012	Dec. 28, 2013	Dec. 29, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Diluted net income per common share calculation	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Income from continuing operations	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	$73,326	$56,163	$72,575
Interest expense on senior subordinated convertible notes (after tax)	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	2,719
Income from continuing operations allocated to participating securities	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	-12	-133
Income from continuing operations attributable to common shareholders	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	73,326	56,151	75,161
Loss from discontinued operations	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	-1,031
Loss from discontinued operations allocated to participating securities	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	1
Loss from discontinued operations attributable to common shareholders	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	-1,030
Net income	13,063	18,904	23,189	18,170	-14,386	24,255	20,808	25,486	73,326	56,163	71,544
Interest expense on senior subordinated convertible notes (after tax)	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	2,719
Net income allocated to participating securities	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	-12	-132
Net income attributable to common shareholders	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	$73,326	$56,151	$74,131
Weighted average number of common shares used to compute basic income per common share	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	57,332,000	58,563,000	58,777,000
Dilutive effect of share-based compensation plans (in shares)	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	992,000	1,017,000	916,000
Dilutive effect on conversion of senior subordinated convertible notes (in shares)	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	2,831,000
Weighted average number of common shares used to compute diluted net income per common share	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	58,324,000	59,580,000	62,524,000
Diluted net income (loss) per common share	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Continuing operations (in dollars per share)	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	$1.26	$0.94	$1.20
Discontinued operations (in dollars per share)	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	($0.01)
Net income (in dollars per share)	$0.23	$0.32	$0.40	$0.31	($0.25)	$0.41	$0.35	$0.43	$1.26	$0.94	$1.19
Anti-dilutive shares	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Anti-dilutive securities related to estimated settlement	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	562,000	'
Options	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Potential common share equivalents excluded	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Options to purchase shares not included in the computation of diluted income per share because their inclusion would be anti-dilutive	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	526,000	535,000	551,000
Restricted stock awards	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Potential common share equivalents excluded	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Awards issued (in shares)	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	0	'	'

Discontinued_Operations_Detail

Discontinued Operations (Details) (ITC, USD $)	0 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Nov. 04, 2010	Dec. 31, 2011
ITC	'	'
Discontinued operations	'	'
Proceeds from sales of discontinued operations	$55	'
Charge related to post-close severance payments	'	1
Charge related to post-close severance payments, net	'	1.8
Tax benefit attributable to charge related to post-close severance payments	'	$0.80

Quarterly_Results_of_Operation2

Quarterly Results of Operations (Unaudited) (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 28, 2013	Sep. 28, 2013	Jun. 29, 2013	Mar. 30, 2013	Dec. 29, 2012	Sep. 29, 2012	Jun. 30, 2012	Mar. 31, 2012	Dec. 28, 2013	Dec. 29, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Quarterly Results of Operations (Unaudited)	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Product sales	$128,173,000	$126,444,000	$130,479,000	$117,725,000	$128,458,000	$117,768,000	$118,659,000	$126,769,000	$502,821,000	$491,654,000	$422,713,000
Gross profit	81,652,000	85,486,000	89,479,000	82,652,000	39,250,000	81,606,000	82,637,000	87,882,000	339,269,000	291,375,000	287,651,000
Net income	13,063,000	18,904,000	23,189,000	18,170,000	-14,386,000	24,255,000	20,808,000	25,486,000	73,326,000	56,163,000	71,544,000
Basic net income per common share (in dollars per share)	$0.23	$0.33	$0.40	$0.32	($0.25)	$0.41	$0.35	$0.44	$1.28	$0.96	$1.21
Diluted net income per common share (in dollars per share)	$0.23	$0.32	$0.40	$0.31	($0.25)	$0.41	$0.35	$0.43	$1.26	$0.94	$1.19
Impairment charge	'	'	'	'	$50,200,000	'	'	'	'	'	'

SCHEDULE_IIVALUATION_AND_QUALI1

SCHEDULE II-VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS AND RESERVES (Details) (Allowance for doubtful accounts, USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 28, 2013	Dec. 29, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Allowance for doubtful accounts	'	'	'
Changes in balance	'	'	'
Balance Beginning of Year	$2,127	$2,153	$1,334
Additions (charges to expense)	1,106	36	1,206
Deductions	-1,070	-62	-387
Balance End of Year	$2,163	$2,127	$2,153