EXHIBIT 23


                         CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT AUDITORS



We consent to the incorporation by reference in this Annual Report on Form 10-K
of St. Jude Medical, Inc. of our report dated February 5, 1997, included in the
1996 Annual Report to Shareholders of St. Jude Medical, Inc.

We also consent to the incorporation by reference in Registration Statement No.
33-29085; Registration Statement No. 33-41459; Registration Statement No.
33-48502 and Registration Statement No. 33-54435 on Form S-8 of our reports
dated February 5, 1997, with respect to the consolidated financial statements
and schedules of St. Jude Medical, Inc. included in or incorporated by reference
in this Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 1996.


/s/ Ernst & Young LLP


Minneapolis, Minnesota
March 26, 1997