Subsequent Events (Details) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Oct. 09, 2012
Subsequent Events [Abstract]
Initial cash payments for Bridgepoint and Rhythmia acqs	$ 100
Contingent Consideration Q412 Acqs	$ 265

Initial cash payments for Bridgepoint and Rhythmia acqs

No definition available.

Name:	bsx_InitialCashPaymentsForBridgepointAndRhythmiaAcqs
Namespace Prefix:	bsx_
Data Type:	xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type:	credit
Period Type:	instant