XML 51 R40.htm IDEA: XBRL DOCUMENT
v3.21.2

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions | 3 Months Ended | 9 Months Ended
--- | --- | ---
Sep. 30, 2021 | Dec. 31, 2020 | Sep. 30, 2020 | Sep. 30, 2021 | Sep. 30, 2020
Intangible Assets and Goodwill [Line Items] |  |  |  |  |
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross | $ 14,143 | $ 13,345 |  | $ 14,143 |
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization | (8,290) | (7,806) |  | (8,290) |
Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets (Excluding Goodwill) | 374 | 377 |  | 374 |
Impairment of Intangible Assets (Excluding Goodwill) | 128 |  | $ 219 | 173 | $ 452
Goodwill [Roll Forward] |  |  |  |  |
Goodwill Beginning Balance |  |  |  | 9,951 |
Goodwill, Translation and Purchase Accounting Adjustments |  |  |  | (20) |
Goodwill, Acquired During Period |  |  |  | 1,890 |
Goodwill Ending Balance | 11,820 | 9,951 |  | 11,820 |
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Cash Flow Hedge, Gain (Loss), before Reclassification, after Tax | 61 |  | (50) | 182 | 36
Cost of products sold | 900 |  | 869 | 2,739 | 2,465
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Cash Flow Hedge, Gain (Loss), Reclassification, after Tax | 11 |  | 14 | 21 | 52
Interest Expense | 86 |  | 86 | 254 | 265
Other Operating Income (Expense), Net | (181) |  | (64) | (192) | (9)
Foreign Exchange Contract [Member] | Cash Flow Hedging [Member] | Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] | Cost of Sales [Member] |  |  |  |  |
Goodwill [Roll Forward] |  |  |  |  |
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Cash Flow Hedge, Gain (Loss), before Reclassification and Tax | 79 |  | (64) | 234 | 47
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Cash Flow Hedge, Gain (Loss), before Reclassification, Tax | (18) |  | 14 | (53) | (11)
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Cash Flow Hedge, Gain (Loss), before Reclassification, after Tax | 61 |  | (50) | 182 | 36
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Cash Flow Hedge, Gain (Loss), Reclassification, before Tax | (16) |  | (20) | (31) | (70)
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Cash Flow Hedge, Gain (Loss), Reclassification, Tax | 3 |  | 4 | 7 | 16
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Cash Flow Hedge, Gain (Loss), Reclassification, after Tax | (12) |  | (15) | (24) | (55)
Foreign Exchange Contract [Member] | Net Investment Hedging [Member] | Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] | Interest Expense [Member] |  |  |  |  |
Goodwill [Roll Forward] |  |  |  |  |
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net Investment Hedge, Gain (Loss), before Reclassification and Tax | 7 |  | (21) | 50 | (4)
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Derivative, Excluded Component, Increase (Decrease), before Adjustments, Tax | (2) |  | 5 | (11) | (21)
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Derivative, Excluded Component, Increase (Decrease), before Adjustments, after Tax | 6 |  | (16) | 39 | (25)
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Derivative, Excluded Component, Increase (Decrease), Adjustments, before Tax | (2) |  | (6) | (11) | (18)
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Derivative, Excluded Component, Increase (Decrease), Adjustments, Tax | 0 |  | 1 | 3 | 4
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Derivative, Excluded Component, Increase (Decrease), Adjustments, after Tax | (2) |  | (5) | (9) | (14)
foreign currency denominated in debt [Member] | Net Investment Hedging [Member] | Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] | Interest Expense [Member] |  |  |  |  |
Goodwill [Roll Forward] |  |  |  |  |
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net Investment Hedge, Gain (Loss), before Reclassification and Tax | 25 |  | (46) | 60 | (44)
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Derivative, Excluded Component, Increase (Decrease), before Adjustments, Tax | (6) |  | 10 | (14) | 13
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Derivative, Excluded Component, Increase (Decrease), before Adjustments, after Tax | 20 |  | (36) | 47 | (31)
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Derivative, Excluded Component, Increase (Decrease), Adjustments, before Tax | 0 |  | 0 | 0 | 0
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Derivative, Excluded Component, Increase (Decrease), Adjustments, Tax | 0 |  | 0 | 0 | 0
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Derivative, Excluded Component, Increase (Decrease), Adjustments, after Tax | 0 |  | 0 | 0 | 0
Interest Rate Contract [Member] | Cash Flow Hedging [Member] | Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] | Interest Expense [Member] |  |  |  |  |
Goodwill [Roll Forward] |  |  |  |  |
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Cash Flow Hedge, Gain (Loss), before Reclassification and Tax | 0 |  | 0 | 0 | 0
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Cash Flow Hedge, Gain (Loss), before Reclassification, Tax | 0 |  | 0 | 0 | 0
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Cash Flow Hedge, Gain (Loss), before Reclassification, after Tax | 0 |  | 0 | 0 | 0
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Cash Flow Hedge, Gain (Loss), Reclassification, before Tax | 1 |  | 1 | 4 | 4
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Cash Flow Hedge, Gain (Loss), Reclassification, Tax | 0 |  | 0 | (1) | (1)
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Cash Flow Hedge, Gain (Loss), Reclassification, after Tax | 1 |  | $ 1 | 3 | $ 3
MedSurg [Member] |  |  |  |  |
Goodwill [Roll Forward] |  |  |  |  |
Goodwill Beginning Balance |  |  |  | 2,059 |
Goodwill, Translation and Purchase Accounting Adjustments |  |  |  | (4) |
Goodwill, Acquired During Period |  |  |  | 578 |
Goodwill Ending Balance | 2,633 | 2,059 |  | 2,633 |
Rhythm and Neuro [Member] |  |  |  |  |
Goodwill [Roll Forward] |  |  |  |  |
Goodwill Beginning Balance |  |  |  | 2,194 |
Goodwill, Translation and Purchase Accounting Adjustments |  |  |  | (1) |
Goodwill, Acquired During Period |  |  |  | 1,312 |
Goodwill Ending Balance | 3,506 | 2,194 |  | 3,506 |
Cardiovascular [Member] |  |  |  |  |
Goodwill [Roll Forward] |  |  |  |  |
Goodwill Beginning Balance |  |  |  | 5,697 |
Goodwill, Translation and Purchase Accounting Adjustments |  |  |  | (15) |
Goodwill, Acquired During Period |  |  |  | 0 |
Goodwill Ending Balance | 5,682 | 5,697 |  | 5,682 |
Specialty Pharmaceuticals [Member] |  |  |  |  |
Goodwill [Roll Forward] |  |  |  |  |
Goodwill, Impairment Loss |  | 73 |  |  |
Goodwill [Member] |  |  |  |  |
Intangible Assets and Goodwill [Line Items] |  |  |  |  |
Goodwill, Gross | 21,720 | 19,924 |  | 21,720 |
Goodwill, Impaired, Accumulated Impairment Loss | (9,900) | (9,973) |  | (9,900) |
In Process Research and Development [Member] |  |  |  |  |
Intangible Assets and Goodwill [Line Items] |  |  |  |  |
Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets (Excluding Goodwill) | 254 | 257 |  | 254 |
Technology-Based Intangible Assets [Member] |  |  |  |  |
Intangible Assets and Goodwill [Line Items] |  |  |  |  |
Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets (Excluding Goodwill) | 120 | 120 |  | 120 |
Technology-Based Intangible Assets [Member] |  |  |  |  |
Intangible Assets and Goodwill [Line Items] |  |  |  |  |
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross | 11,787 | 11,059 |  | 11,787 |
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization | (6,590) | (6,179) |  | (6,590) |
Patents [Member] |  |  |  |  |
Intangible Assets and Goodwill [Line Items] |  |  |  |  |
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross | 497 | 511 |  | 497 |
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization | (399) | (407) |  | (399) |
Other Intangible Assets [Member] |  |  |  |  |
Intangible Assets and Goodwill [Line Items] |  |  |  |  |
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross | 1,859 | 1,775 |  | 1,859 |
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization | $ (1,301) | $ (1,220) |  | $ (1,301) |

X
- Definition [Line Items] for Schedule of Intangible Assets and Goodwill [Table] + References No definition available. + Details
Name: | bsx_IntangibleAssetsandGoodwillLineItems
Namespace Prefix: | bsx_
Data Type: | xbrli:stringItemType
Balance Type: | na
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition The aggregate costs related to goods produced and sold and services rendered by an entity during the reporting period. This excludes costs incurred during the reporting period related to financial services rendered and other revenue generating activities. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 924 -SubTopic 10 -Section S99 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (SAB Topic 11.L) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6472922&loc=d3e499488-122856 Reference 2: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 220 -SubTopic 10 -Section S99 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph (SX 210.5-03.2(a),(d)) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=120395209&loc=SL114868664-224227 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_CostOfGoodsAndServicesSold
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | debit
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition Accumulated amount of amortization of assets, excluding financial assets and goodwill, lacking physical substance with a finite life. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 350 -SubTopic 30 -Section 50 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph (a)(1) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=66006027&loc=d3e16323-109275 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsAccumulatedAmortization
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition Amount before amortization of assets, excluding financial assets and goodwill, lacking physical substance with a finite life. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 928 -SubTopic 340 -Section 50 -Paragraph 1 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6473545&loc=d3e61844-108004 Reference 2: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 350 -SubTopic 30 -Section 50 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph (a)(1) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=66006027&loc=d3e16323-109275 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsGross
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | debit
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition Amount after accumulated impairment loss of an asset representing future economic benefits arising from other assets acquired in a business combination that are not individually identified and separately recognized. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 942 -SubTopic 210 -Section S99 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (SX 210.9-03(10)(1)) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=120398452&loc=d3e534808-122878 Reference 2: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 350 -SubTopic 20 -Section 45 -Paragraph 5 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=120320667&loc=SL49117168-202975 Reference 3: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 350 -SubTopic 20 -Section 45 -Paragraph 1 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=99380562&loc=d3e13770-109266 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_Goodwill
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | debit
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition Amount of increase in asset representing future economic benefits arising from other assets acquired in a business combination that are not individually identified and separately recognized resulting from a business combination. + References Reference 1: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 350 -SubTopic 20 -Section 50 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (b) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=121556970&loc=d3e13816-109267 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_GoodwillAcquiredDuringPeriod
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | debit
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition Amount before accumulated impairment loss of an asset representing future economic benefits arising from other assets acquired in a business combination that are not individually identified and separately recognized. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 350 -SubTopic 20 -Section 50 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (a) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=121556970&loc=d3e13816-109267 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 350 -SubTopic 20 -Section 50 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (h) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=121556970&loc=d3e13816-109267 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_GoodwillGross
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | debit
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition Amount of accumulated impairment loss for an asset representing future economic benefits arising from other assets acquired in a business combination that are not individually identified and separately recognized. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 350 -SubTopic 20 -Section 50 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (h) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=121556970&loc=d3e13816-109267 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 350 -SubTopic 20 -Section 50 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (a) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=121556970&loc=d3e13816-109267 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_GoodwillImpairedAccumulatedImpairmentLoss
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition Amount of loss from the write-down of an asset representing the future economic benefits arising from other assets acquired in a business combination that are not individually identified and separately recognized. + References Reference 1: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 350 -SubTopic 20 -Section 50 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph (b) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=121556970&loc=d3e13854-109267 Reference 2: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 230 -SubTopic 10 -Section 45 -Paragraph 28 -Subparagraph (b) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=121586364&loc=d3e3602-108585 Reference 3: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 350 -SubTopic 20 -Section 50 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (e) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=121556970&loc=d3e13816-109267 Reference 4: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 350 -SubTopic 20 -Section 45 -Paragraph 2 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=99380562&loc=d3e13777-109266 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_GoodwillImpairmentLoss
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | debit
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition A roll forward is a reconciliation of a concept from the beginning of a period to the end of a period. + References No definition available. + Details
Name: | us-gaap_GoodwillRollForward
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:stringItemType
Balance Type: | na
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition Amount of increase (decrease) from foreign currency translation adjustments and purchase accounting adjustments of an asset representing future economic benefits arising from other assets acquired in a business combination that are not individually identified and separately recognized. + References Reference 1: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 805 -SubTopic 10 -Section 25 -Paragraph 16 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=116868678&loc=d3e961-128460 Reference 2: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 350 -SubTopic 20 -Section 50 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (g) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=121556970&loc=d3e13816-109267 Reference 3: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 350 -SubTopic 20 -Section 50 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (f) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=121556970&loc=d3e13816-109267 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_GoodwillTranslationAndPurchaseAccountingAdjustments
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | debit
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition The amount of impairment loss recognized in the period resulting from the write-down of the carrying amount of an intangible asset (excluding goodwill) to fair value. + References Reference 1: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 230 -SubTopic 10 -Section 45 -Paragraph 28 -Subparagraph (b) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=121586364&loc=d3e3602-108585 Reference 2: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 350 -SubTopic 30 -Section 50 -Paragraph 3 -Subparagraph (b) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=66006027&loc=d3e16373-109275 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_ImpairmentOfIntangibleAssetsExcludingGoodwill
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | debit
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition Amount of assets, excluding financial assets and goodwill, lacking physical substance and having a projected indefinite period of benefit. + References Reference 1: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 350 -SubTopic 30 -Section 50 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph (b) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=66006027&loc=d3e16323-109275 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_IndefiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsExcludingGoodwill
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | debit
Period Type: | instant

X
- Definition Amount of the cost of borrowed funds accounted for as interest expense. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 835 -SubTopic 20 -Section 50 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (a) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=6450988&loc=d3e26243-108391 Reference 2: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 835 -SubTopic 30 -Section 45 -Paragraph 3 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=119993939&loc=d3e28555-108399 Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 280 -SubTopic 10 -Section 50 -Paragraph 22 -Subparagraph (d) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=120311839&loc=d3e8736-108599 Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 220 -SubTopic 10 -Section S99 -Paragraph 2 -Subparagraph (210.5-03(11)) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=120395209&loc=SL114868664-224227 Reference 5: http://fasb.org/us-gaap/role/ref/legacyRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 942 -SubTopic 220 -Section S99 -Paragraph 1 -Subparagraph (SX 210.9-04.9) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=120399700&loc=SL114874048-224260 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_InterestExpense
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | debit
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition Amount, after tax and before reclassification, of gain (loss) from derivative instrument designated and qualifying as cash flow hedge included in assessment of hedge effectiveness. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 220 -SubTopic 10 -Section 45 -Paragraph 10A -Subparagraph (d) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=121641772&loc=SL7669646-108580 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 220 -SubTopic 10 -Section 45 -Paragraph 11 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=121641772&loc=d3e637-108580 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossCashFlowHedgeGainLossBeforeReclassificationAfterTax
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition Amount, before tax and reclassification, of gain (loss) from derivative instrument designated and qualifying cash flow hedge included in assessment of hedge effectiveness. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 815 -SubTopic 20 -Section 45 -Paragraph 3 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=121577181&loc=SL110061190-113977 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 815 -SubTopic 10 -Section 50 -Paragraph 4A -Subparagraph (b)(2) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=121590274&loc=SL5618551-113959 Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 815 -SubTopic 10 -Section 50 -Paragraph 4C -Subparagraph (b) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=121590274&loc=SL5624171-113959 Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 220 -SubTopic 10 -Section 45 -Paragraph 11 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=121641772&loc=d3e637-108580 Reference 5: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 220 -SubTopic 10 -Section 45 -Paragraph 10A -Subparagraph (d) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=121641772&loc=SL7669646-108580 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossCashFlowHedgeGainLossBeforeReclassificationAndTax
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition Amount, before reclassification, of tax expense (benefit) for gain (loss) from derivative instrument designated and qualifying as cash flow hedge included in assessment of hedge effectiveness. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 220 -SubTopic 10 -Section 45 -Paragraph 12 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=121641772&loc=d3e640-108580 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossCashFlowHedgeGainLossBeforeReclassificationTax
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | debit
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition Amount, after tax, of reclassification of gain (loss) from accumulated other comprehensive income (AOCI) for derivative instrument designated and qualifying as cash flow hedge included in assessment of hedge effectiveness. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 220 -SubTopic 10 -Section 45 -Paragraph 15 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=121641772&loc=d3e689-108580 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 220 -SubTopic 10 -Section 45 -Paragraph 11 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=121641772&loc=d3e637-108580 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossCashFlowHedgeGainLossReclassificationAfterTax
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | debit
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition Amount, before tax, of reclassification of gain (loss) from accumulated other comprehensive income (AOCI) for derivative instrument designated and qualifying as cash flow hedge included in assessment of hedge effectiveness. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 220 -SubTopic 10 -Section 45 -Paragraph 15 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=121641772&loc=d3e689-108580 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 220 -SubTopic 10 -Section 45 -Paragraph 11 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=121641772&loc=d3e637-108580 Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 815 -SubTopic 10 -Section 50 -Paragraph 4C -Subparagraph (c) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=121590274&loc=SL5624171-113959 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossCashFlowHedgeGainLossReclassificationBeforeTax
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | debit
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition Amount of tax expense (benefit) for reclassification of gain (loss) from accumulated other comprehensive income (AOCI) for derivative instrument designated and qualifying as cash flow hedge included in assessment of hedge effectiveness. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 220 -SubTopic 10 -Section 45 -Paragraph 12 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=121641772&loc=d3e640-108580 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossCashFlowHedgeGainLossReclassificationTax
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition Amount, after tax, of adjustments from accumulated other comprehensive income (AOCI) for gain (loss) from increase (decrease) in value of excluded component of derivative designated and qualifying as hedge. Adjustments include, but are not limited to, reclassifications for sale and settlement, and amounts recognized under systematic and rational method. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 220 -SubTopic 10 -Section 45 -Paragraph 15 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=121641772&loc=d3e689-108580 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 220 -SubTopic 10 -Section 45 -Paragraph 11 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=121641772&loc=d3e637-108580 Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 220 -SubTopic 10 -Section 45 -Paragraph 10A -Subparagraph (dd) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=121641772&loc=SL7669646-108580 Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 815 -SubTopic 10 -Section 50 -Paragraph 4C -Subparagraph (d) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=121590274&loc=SL5624171-113959 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossDerivativeExcludedComponentIncreaseDecreaseAdjustmentsAfterTax
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | debit
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition Amount, before tax, of adjustments from accumulated other comprehensive income (AOCI) for gain (loss) from increase (decrease) in value of excluded component of derivative designated and qualifying as hedge. Adjustments include, but are not limited to, reclassifications for sale and settlement, and amounts recognized under systematic and rational method. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 220 -SubTopic 10 -Section 45 -Paragraph 10A -Subparagraph (dd) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=121641772&loc=SL7669646-108580 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 220 -SubTopic 10 -Section 45 -Paragraph 11 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=121641772&loc=d3e637-108580 Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 220 -SubTopic 10 -Section 45 -Paragraph 15 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=121641772&loc=d3e689-108580 Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 815 -SubTopic 10 -Section 50 -Paragraph 4C -Subparagraph (d) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=121590274&loc=SL5624171-113959 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossDerivativeExcludedComponentIncreaseDecreaseAdjustmentsBeforeTax
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | debit
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition Amount of tax expense (benefit) for adjustments from accumulated other comprehensive income (AOCI) for gain (loss) from increase (decrease) in value of excluded component of derivative designated and qualifying as hedge. Adjustments include, but are not limited to, reclassifications for sale and settlement, and amounts recognized under systematic and rational method. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 220 -SubTopic 10 -Section 45 -Paragraph 10A -Subparagraph (dd) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=121641772&loc=SL7669646-108580 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 220 -SubTopic 10 -Section 45 -Paragraph 15 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=121641772&loc=d3e689-108580 Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 220 -SubTopic 10 -Section 45 -Paragraph 11 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=121641772&loc=d3e637-108580 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossDerivativeExcludedComponentIncreaseDecreaseAdjustmentsTax
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition Amount, after tax and before adjustments, of gain (loss) from increase (decrease) in value of excluded component of derivative designated and qualifying as hedge. Adjustments include, but are not limited to, reclassifications for sale and settlement, and amounts recognized under systematic and rational method. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 220 -SubTopic 10 -Section 45 -Paragraph 10A -Subparagraph (dd) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=121641772&loc=SL7669646-108580 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 815 -SubTopic 10 -Section 50 -Paragraph 4C -Subparagraph (bb) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=121590274&loc=SL5624171-113959 Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 815 -SubTopic 20 -Section 45 -Paragraph 3 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=121577181&loc=SL110061190-113977 Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 220 -SubTopic 10 -Section 45 -Paragraph 11 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=121641772&loc=d3e637-108580 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossDerivativeExcludedComponentIncreaseDecreaseBeforeAdjustmentsAfterTax
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition Amount, before adjustments, of tax expense (benefit) for gain (loss) from increase (decrease) in value of excluded component of derivative designated and qualifying as hedge. Adjustments include, but are not limited to, reclassifications for sale and settlement, and amounts recognized under systematic and rational method. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 815 -SubTopic 20 -Section 45 -Paragraph 3 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=121577181&loc=SL110061190-113977 Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 220 -SubTopic 10 -Section 45 -Paragraph 11 -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=121641772&loc=d3e637-108580 Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 220 -SubTopic 10 -Section 45 -Paragraph 10A -Subparagraph (dd) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=121641772&loc=SL7669646-108580 Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 815 -SubTopic 10 -Section 50 -Paragraph 4C -Subparagraph (bb) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=121590274&loc=SL5624171-113959 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossDerivativeExcludedComponentIncreaseDecreaseBeforeAdjustmentsTax
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | debit
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition Amount, before tax and reclassification, of gain (loss) from derivative designated and qualifying as net investment hedge. + References Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/disclosureRef -Publisher FASB -Name Accounting Standards Codification -Topic 815 -SubTopic 10 -Section 50 -Paragraph 4CCC -Subparagraph (a) -URI http://asc.fasb.org/extlink&oid=121590274&loc=SL109998896-113959 + Details
Name: | us-gaap_OtherComprehensiveIncomeLossNetInvestmentHedgeGainLossBeforeReclassificationAndTax
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | duration

X
- Definition The net amount of other operating income and expenses, the components of which are not separately disclosed on the income statement, from items that are associated with the entity's normal revenue producing operations. + References No definition available. + Details
Name: | us-gaap_OtherOperatingIncomeExpenseNet
Namespace Prefix: | us-gaap_
Data Type: | xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type: | credit
Period Type: | duration

X
- Details
Name: | us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis=us-gaap_ForeignExchangeContractMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossByHedgingRelationshipAxis=us-gaap_CashFlowHedgingMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | us-gaap_HedgingDesignationAxis=us-gaap_DesignatedAsHedgingInstrumentMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis=us-gaap_CostOfSalesMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentsGainLossByHedgingRelationshipAxis=us-gaap_NetInvestmentHedgingMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | us-gaap_IncomeStatementLocationAxis=us-gaap_InterestExpenseMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis=bsx_ForeigncurrencydenominatedindebtMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | us-gaap_DerivativeInstrumentRiskAxis=us-gaap_InterestRateContractMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis=bsx_MedsurgMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis=bsx_RhythmandNeuroMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis=bsx_CardiovascularMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | us-gaap_StatementBusinessSegmentsAxis=bsx_SpecialtyPharmaceuticalsMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | us-gaap_IndefiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsByMajorClassAxis=us-gaap_GoodwillMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | us-gaap_IndefiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsByMajorClassAxis=us-gaap_InProcessResearchAndDevelopmentMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | us-gaap_IndefiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsByMajorClassAxis=us-gaap_TechnologyBasedIntangibleAssetsMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsByMajorClassAxis=us-gaap_TechnologyBasedIntangibleAssetsMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsByMajorClassAxis=us-gaap_PatentsMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |

X
- Details
Name: | us-gaap_FiniteLivedIntangibleAssetsByMajorClassAxis=us-gaap_OtherIntangibleAssetsMember
Namespace Prefix: |
Data Type: | na
Balance Type: |
Period Type: |