Basis Of Presentation Basis of Presentation (Narrative) (Details) (Spinal Modulation [Member], USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Jun. 29, 2013
Spinal Modulation [Member]
Equity Security Ownership Interest And Allocated Value For Purchase Option	$ 40

Equity security ownership interest and allocated value for purchase option.

No definition available.

Name:	stj_EquitySecurityOwnershipInterestAndAllocatedValueForPurchaseOption
Namespace Prefix:	stj_
Data Type:	xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type:	debit
Period Type:	instant