Document and Entity Information
| Document and Entity Information | Aug. 12, 2020 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Entity Registrant Name | ABIOMED INC |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0000815094 |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Document Period End Date | Aug. 12, 2020 |
| Entity Incorporation State Country Code | DE |
| Entity File Number | 001-09585 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 04-2743260 |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 22 Cherry Hill Drive |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Danvers |
| Entity Address, State or Province | MA |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 01923 |
| City Area Code | (978) |
| Local Phone Number | 646-1400 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre Commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre Commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Security 12b Title | Common Stock, $0.01 par value |
| Trading Symbol | ABMD |
| Security Exchange Name | NASDAQ |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |