Segment and Geographic Information , Reconciliation of Assets and Depreciation Expense from Segments to Consolidated (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Apr. 26, 2019	Apr. 27, 2018	Apr. 28, 2017
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total Assets	$ 89,694	$ 91,393
Depreciation Expense	895	821	$ 937
Reportable segments
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total Assets	76,559	76,554
Depreciation Expense	651	575	734
Reportable segments | Cardiac and Vascular Group
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total Assets	15,453	15,407
Depreciation Expense	194	183	180
Reportable segments | Minimally Invasive Therapies Group
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total Assets	41,186	43,002
Depreciation Expense	206	217	358
Reportable segments | Restorative Therapies Group
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total Assets	16,825	15,245
Depreciation Expense	217	146	167
Reportable segments | Diabetes Group
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total Assets	3,095	2,900
Depreciation Expense	34	29	29
Corporate
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Total Assets	13,135	14,839
Depreciation Expense	$ 244	$ 246	$ 203