| Document and Entity Information | Jun. 19, 2020 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Entity Registrant Name | CRYOLIFE INC |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0000784199 |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Document Period End Date | Jun. 19, 2020 |
| Entity Incorporation State Country Code | FL |
| Entity File Number | 1-13165 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 59-2417093 |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 1655 Roberts Boulevard |
| Entity Address, Address Line Two | N.W. |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Kennesaw |
| Entity Address, State or Province | GA |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 30144 |
| City Area Code | (770) |
| Local Phone Number | 419-3355 |
| Security 12b Title | Common Stock, $0.01 par value |
| Trading Symbol | CRY |
| Security Exchange Name | NYSE |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre Commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre Commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
