Weis testifies he was warned of risks in surgery lawsuit

Dailey also asked Weis about his prior history of health problems, including sleep apnea and hemochromatosis, an iron overload in the body, and asked if he fully realized all the risks of bypass surgery. Five to 10 percent of patients suffer major complications, Dailey said, and about 1 in 200 die.

Weis said he did know about the potential complications. "Yes sir, (Dr. Ferguson) definitely told me there were other risks," he said.

Dailey also pointed out the doctors waived the normal counseling period before the operation -- at Weis' request -- so he could be healthy in time for the following football season.

Weis said he was so secretive about his decision to have the surgery that he didn't tell his wife until about two weeks before the operation. The only member of the Patriots he confided in besides the team doctor was quarterback Tom Brady.

Maura Weis testified she was upset when she found out her husband was getting the operation because of the known risks, and that when she saw him in the hospital afterward she thought he might die.

Weis said he remembered waking up in the hospital's intensive care unit after the surgery and seeing Brady and a priest at his bedside. Brady was not in court Wednesday, but may testify later.

Weis is seeking unspecified damages. The trial continues Thursday.