Loss recognized during the period that results from the write-down of goodwill after comparing the implied fair value of reporting unit goodwill with the carrying amount of that goodwill. Goodwill is assessed at least annually for impairment.

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+ Details

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets (Details) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2012 reportingunits	Mar. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010
Goodwill (Textuals) [Abstract]
Goodwill impairment charge		$ 697
Estimated fair value of goodwill balance as determined by first step of the goodwill impairment test		782
Number of reporting units with material goodwill at higher risk of failure of step one of impairment test	4
Carrying value of goodwill prior to impairment			1,479
Other Intangible Assets (Textuals) [Abstract]
Level of excess fair value over carrying value for reporting units, except U.S. CRM reporting unit, minimum	8.00%
Level of excess fair value over carrying value for reporting units, except U.S. CRM reporting unit, maximum	15.00%
U.S. CRM Reporting Unit [Member]
Goodwill (Textuals) [Abstract]
Allocated Goodwill	780
U.S. Cardiovascular reporting unit [Member]
Goodwill (Textuals) [Abstract]
Allocated Goodwill	2,400
U.S. Neuromodulation reporting unit [Member]
Goodwill (Textuals) [Abstract]
Allocated Goodwill	1,300
Reporting Unit Four [Member]
Goodwill (Textuals) [Abstract]
Allocated Goodwill	$ 4,000