"Prof. Grzegorz Opolski performed the first procedures in electrophysiology and electrotherapy and also conducted scientific research in this field at the 4th Department of Internal Medicine and Cardiology, the Medical Academy in Warsaw at that time. He developed and introduced remote control of pacemakers via landline telephone to the Department in the 1980s, a service for which we now have evidence that improves the prognosis of our patients and is entering the “basket” of guaranteed services. The HOT-CAFE trial, designed by the Professor together with Professor Adam Torbicki, has established the current standard of rhythm and rate control in patients with atrial fibrillation. The results of the study have been included in many meta-analyses, they are cited in subsequent guidelines for atrial fibrillation, and the publication of the results is one of the most frequently cited articles among the authors of the MUW researchers" - was emphasized in the justification for granting the award.
Special emphasis was also placed on Prof. Opolski's activities during his term as national consultant from 2002 to 2014. "During the period when the Professor served as a National Consultant from 2002 to 2014, the groundbreaking POLKARD 2003-2005; 2006-2008 program was designed and implemented, with investments of over PLN 1 billion for Polish cardiology. This enabled the development of cardiology centers, launch of a 24-hour hemodynamic emergency service throughout the country, contributed to the introduction of new technologies" - it was written in the justification.
The award was presented to Prof. Grzegorz Opolski during the annual Polstim 2022 Heart Rhythm Section Congress. The medal was also awarded to Prof. Romuald Ochotny from the Heliodor Święcicki Clinical Hospital of the Poznan University of Medical Sciences.
The Board of the Heart Rhythm Section decides on awarding the Prof. Mariusz Stopczyk Medal of Honor.