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Dick Clark Death Certificate Reveals Prostate Surgery Before Heart Attack

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Dick Clark at the 61st Annual Golden Globes Nominations Announcement on December 18, 2003 in Beverly Hills, California.

The day before Dick Clark died of a massive heart attack, he underwent prostate surgery.

According to the death certificate (obtained by TMZ), the beloved TV and radio host underwent surgery on April 17 on his prostate due to acute urinary retention.

The next morning, Clark died from a heart attack at St. John's Hospital in Santa Monica at the age of 82.

Related: PHOTOS: Stars we've lost

Clark's friend, Congressman David Dreier, told Extra, "He had very minor prostate surgery. All of a sudden, he got a feeling in his arm about 9:30 [Wednesday] morning and he was gone by 11:15. It turned out to be a massive heart attack."

The certificate states Clark died from acute myocardial infarction (a heart attack) and that he suffered from coronary artery disease.

His New Year's Rockin' Eve cohost Ryan Seacrest paid tribute to his deceased mentor on last Wednesday's episode of American Idol.

Related: PHOTOS: Dick and Kari share a sweet New Year's smooch

"We can't begin tonight's show without acknowledging the passing of a TV pioneer and my dear friend Dick Clark," Seacrest said of the American Bandstand host and mega-successful TV producer. "Without Dick a show like this would not exist. He will be missed greatly. I know he's in a better place, saying, 'Hey, let's get on with the show.'"

He added, "You got it, boss."

Clark is survived by three children and his third wife, Kari Wigton.

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