Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Statement Of Income And Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Consolidated net income (loss)	$ 35,426	$ 65,290	$ (17,496)
Other comprehensive income (loss):
Unrealized gain (loss) on marketable securities, net of tax	330	(344)	(161)
Translation adjustments, net of tax	1,151	(2,098)	(6,271)
Other comprehensive income (loss):	1,481	(2,442)	(6,432)
Total consolidated comprehensive income (loss)	36,907	62,848	(23,928)
Net loss attributable to non-controlling interests	1,721	1,001	776
Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to NuVasive, Inc.	$ 38,628	$ 63,849	$ (23,152)