CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE LOSS - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net loss	$ (29,377)	$ (64,727)	$ (25,154)
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of taxes, as appropriate:
Foreign currency translation adjustments	2,869	(6,967)	(1,974)
Total other comprehensive income (loss), net of taxes	2,869	(6,967)	(1,974)
Comprehensive net loss	(26,508)	(71,694)	(27,128)
Comprehensive (income) loss attributable to noncontrolling interests	(865)	(421)	32
Comprehensive net loss attributable to ION	$ (27,373)	$ (72,115)	$ (27,096)